"Communal, or group housing, often enables shelters to provide more enrichment and environmental complexity than standard single or double-compartment caging. However, in order to utilize these items, the cats must navigate around the preferences and use of other cats. In a series of studies, we explored individual preferences for different types of enrichment as well as how cats use the overall environment. We found that sex, type of surrender (owner surrendered versus seized), and time spent in the shelter impacted enrichment use. Furthermore, the cats appear to keep approximately 2 meters of space between themselves and other cats, regardless of how many cats are in the room. Placement of enrichment as well as overall room structure can enable cats to make better use of the resources available. Communal housing can provide more enrichment and environmental complexity than standard caging in shelters. In order to utilize this added enrichment, cats must navigate around the preferences of other cats. In a series of studies, we explored individual enrichment choices, as well as how cats use their overall environment. Sex, type of surrender (owner surrendered versus seized), and time spent in the shelter impacted enrichment use, and cats keep a specific, consistent distance between themselves and other cats regardless of how many cats are in the room. Placement of enrichment as well as overall room structure can enable cats to make better use of the resources available. "

Sponsor:IAABC Foundation
Speaker(s):Malini Suchak

Contact: Rochelle Burtt
 Email: courses@iaabcfoundation.org
 Web: http://www.iaabcfoundation.org/pounce