The natural lifestyle of the cat is characterized by low population density, regular
scheduling of activities, infrequent interaction between adult cats, defined territories,
and a dominance hierarchy with only one reproductively-active male in each society.
Obviously, many households depart from some or even all of these conditions, thus
causing a wide range of social-stress symptoms. The signs will depend on the individual
cat and situation and may include house soiling, aggression, withdrawal, household destruction, and changes in eating and grooming habits. Such responses are considered behavior problems by owners.
How to Deal with these Problems
Prepared
by the Cornell Feline Health Center, Cornell University, College of Veterinary
Medicine, Ithaca, New York 14853-6401. The ultimate purpose of the center
is to improve
the health of cats by developing methods to prevent or cure feline diseases
and by
providing continuing education to veterinarians and cat owners. Much of
that work is made possible by the financial support of friends. ©1997
by Cornell University. All rights reserved. Cornell University is an equal
opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer.
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