Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
AAFP and ISFM feline environmental needs guidelines.
- Journal:
- Journal of feline medicine and surgery
- Year:
- 2013
- Authors:
- Ellis, Sarah L H et al.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
The comfort of a cat in its environment is closely tied to its physical health and emotional wellbeing. It's important for cat owners to understand what their cats need in their surroundings, whether at home or at the vet, to ensure they are happy and healthy. The guidelines outline five key areas, or "pillars," that help create a suitable environment for cats, which can reduce stress and prevent behavior problems. These recommendations are meant for all pet cats, no matter how they live. Following these guidelines can help improve your cat's overall quality of life.
Abstract
GUIDELINES RATIONALE: A cat's level of comfort with its environment is intrinsically linked to its physical health, emotional wellbeing and behavior. Having a basic understanding of the cat's species-specific environmental needs and how cats interact with their environment will provide a foundation for addressing these fundamental requirements. ENVIRONMENTAL NEEDS: Addressing environmental needs is essential (not optional) for optimum wellbeing of the cat. Environmental needs include those relating not only to the cat's physical surroundings (indoors or outdoors; in the home environment or at the veterinary practice) but also those affecting social interaction, including responses to human contact. FIVE 'PILLARS' FRAMEWORK: The authorship panel has organized the Guidelines around five primary concepts ('pillars') that provide the framework for a healthy feline environment. Understanding these principles and the unique environmental needs of the cat will help veterinarians, cat owners and care-givers to reduce stress, the incidence of stress-related disorders, and unwanted behavior in their feline patients and pets. The recommendations in the Guidelines apply to all pet cats, regardless of lifestyle.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23422366/