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Behavioural Consultation and History Taking (view source)
Revision as of 13:09, 9 September 2014
, 13:09, 9 September 2014→Resource availability and distribution
==Resource availability and distribution==
==Resource availability and distribution==
The correct distribution and availability of resources is critical to preventing and treating inter-cat conflict.
The correct distribution and availability of resources is critical to preventing and treating inter-cat conflict. Information should be collected that enables the clinician to identify sources of stress, such as competition for food.
===House Layout===
===House Layout===
Draw a diagram of the house to show where the cats have food, water, [[Cat Latrines|litter trays]] and cat flap (similar to the figure 2. image). Also mark on this where urine or faeces have been found and which cat left them, if relevant. This is particularly important in cases of [[Feline Housesoiling|housesoiling]] but is useful in other cases too as it helps to establish the appropriate allocation of resources. This layout can be supplemented with images.
Draw a diagram of the house to show where the cats have food, water, [[Cat Latrines|litter trays]] and cat flap (similar to the figure 2. image). Also mark on this where urine or faeces have been found and which cat left them, if relevant. This is particularly important in cases of [[Feline Housesoiling|housesoiling]] but is useful in other cases too as it helps to establish the appropriate allocation of resources. This layout can be supplemented with images.
===Feeding===
===Feeding===
Food is the resource that is at the centre of most conflict between resident cats.
*Food type (wet, dry etc)
*Access type (ad-lib, meal fed, on demand, simulated foraging)
*Number of locations
The preference is for ad-lib access in more than one location, ideally using simulated foraging (activity feeding).
===Latrine sites===
Cat show strong latrine preferences, and information should be collected to identify any problems with latrine provision:
*Litter type.
*Litter depth.
*Type of tray (size, covered/uncovered).
*Location (and level of privacy afforded by this locate).
*Number of litter trays.
*Presence of latrine locations in the garden.
The preference is for mineral based, unscented litter filled to a depth of 2-3cm. Facies should be removed daily, along with significant urine contamination. Separate latrines should be provided for urine and faeces, and the formula generally quoted for the optimum number of trays is 1 per cat plus 1. Latrines should be in locations that offer the cat privacy, and should be well away from feeding and resting areas.
===Outdoor Access===
===Outdoor Access===