AAFP and ISFM Feline Environmental Needs Guidelines

• Published in: Journal of feline medicine and surgery 2013-03, Vol.15 (3), p.219-230
• Main Authors: Ellis, Sarah L H, Rodan, Ilona, Carney, Hazel C, Heath, Sarah, Rochlitz, Irene, Shearburn, Lorinda D, Sundahl, Eliza, Westropp, Jodi L
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animal Welfare; Animals; Cat Diseases - prevention & control; Cats - physiology; Environment; Housing, Animal; Human-Animal Bond; International Agencies; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Special; Veterinarians; Veterinary Medicine - organization & administration; Veterinary Medicine - standards
• ISSN: 1098-612X; 1532-2750; 1532-2750
• DOI: 10.1177/1098612X13477537

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.