subject: Cats need a healthy enriched enviornment [print this page] Cats need a healthy enriched enviornment Cats need a healthy enriched enviornment
Providing an enriched environment will prevent many potential behavior problems that can occur secondary to under-stimulation and stress. Stress affects many physical
problems, such as feline interstitial cystitis and obesity and its associated risks (eg, diabetes mellitus, hepatic lipidosis, heart disease, difficulty grooming and walking).
In situations where behavior problems have already occurred, environmental enrichment is an important component of the treatment plan. Client education and suggestions on how to improve the environment can usually prevent such stress, and subsequently improve the quality of life for feline pets. PredictabilityA flexible routine for feeding, playing, or grooming decreases stress. Clients can feed their cat after a particular event (eg, after the morning shower and before dinner) so that the cat can rely on some pattern of response. However, recommend that clients not feed cats upon awakening, because cats may learn to wake people for food.Have clients establish a routine for litter box care that includes scooping boxes twice daily.
Preventing startleAs much as cats like predictability, small, regular changes in the environment teach coping skills, provide novelty, and prevent boredom (a lack of
social and environmental stimulation, or stimulation at a level less than what the cat would seek). To enhance the cat's coping skills, make regular small changes in the environment. For anticipated changes in the family, such as adding a new pet or baby, prepare the environment and gradually introduce the cat to these changes.
Social companionshipCats need companionship and mental stimulation. Cats handled during infancy are more resistant to stress, and gently stroking a cat can
reduce fear and lessens signs of pain.70 Social companionship can be in the form of gentle petting and stroking, feeding, grooming, and play. If cat owners are away for a large part of the day, the resident cat may benefit from having another cat as a companion.
Litter box maintenanceUnderstanding normal elimination behavior and proper litter box maintenance helps prevent inappropriate eliminationthe number one
behavior problem in cats.
ChoiceChoices provide a measure of control for the cat. Provide an environment with opportunities for the cat to create its own positive experiences, including interactive toys, new objects to explore, hide and seek games, hidden food, and visual stimulation such as window seats, bird feeders, and videotapes designed for cats.
Multiple cat householdsWith critical resources available at more than 1 site, a cat can choose which path to take, and which cat to greet or avoid. For many cats, hiding
is a preferred coping strategy when stressors occur. Strategically placed crates, boxes, open closet doors, and climbable cat trees or vertical shelves can all serve as
