DISORDERS ASSOCIATED WITH ENVIRONMENTAL STRESS
CAT STEREOTYPIES
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They can also include toys or areas for climbing and hiding. When the owner is available to interact, the kitten should be let out of its cage to explore and play throughout the house and interact with the owner. Over time, the cage can be left open for increasingly longer periods until it remains open permanently, allowing the animal free access. As all of the cat’s needs can be fulfilled within the cage, it will regard the small area as its own territory. Areas for climbing (Fig. 3) and relaxing on shelves (Fig. 4) also offer exer‑ cise and security, as they help maintain social order. Commercially avail‑ able cat trees and furniture provide several areas for climbing and hiding (Fig. 5), as well as individual platforms; they also offer extra benefits when placed close to a window (Fig. 6). When the owner does not have time to interact with the cat, they can use devices or toys that entertain the animal, for example, feathers hung in different locations. Environmental enrichment can sometimes include the acquisition of another animal. Obviously, each case requires a personalised study of the environmental conditions (own‑ er’s lifestyle, cat’s habitat, time available, etc.). Taking into account the owner’s lifestyle, the veterinary professional should advise them on how to optimise their pet’s health and wellbeing. Lifestyle, environment, and diet should all be discussed during the first consultation. If the cat is given processed foods, they can be hidden in different loca‑ tions to simulate hunting and gathering. This will entertain the cat and limit its intake better than a tray full of food.
Figure 3. Climbing area.
Figure 4. Wall shelving.
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