Helping owners to support the emotional and behavioural needs of the socially mature cat

Abstract

This article forms part of a series that considers the behavioural and emotional needs of the domestic feline — from kitten to geriatric cat — and how the veterinary practice team can support the cat's owners in maintaining its emotional welfare. The articles are based on a series delivered on behalf of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors and the British Veterinary Behaviour Association. This article is based on the material presented by Vicky Halls (RVN Dip Couns, Reg MBACP) at the London Vet Show (November 2017). The article considers the respective needs of the cat at various life stages post kittenhood, as well as feline stress and its effect on the domestic cat, the cat's behavioural and emotional needs, and how owners can make appropriate provisions. In addition, the article considers the issues that can arise when owners wish to maintain a multi-cat household, and how best to go about attempting to integrate a new kitten or cat into an existing feline group. A future article will pay specific attention to the needs of the senior and geriatric cat.