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Converting the latest scientific findings into practical solutions for Felines

Compared with dogs and horses, cats are our most numerous and popular pet but to many of us, they remain rather mysterious, elusive animals living mainly in a world of their own. Yet recent scientific research shows that cats have a rich and active social life that is contrary to popular reasons given for keeping them as pets: conveniently, we can leave them on their own and they don’t need daily exercise like the dog.

Across the world, cat rescue societies are overwhelmed with unwanted cats and in this country, over 80% of pedigree cats seen for emotional problems at a veterinary practice are marking or spraying indoors. Relatively speaking, pet owners typically show more tolerance towards unwanted behaviours in their dog, often spending both time and money with professional behaviourists in attempts to improve these.

But cats are usually not as fortunate with many cat owners being unaware of even the most basic of feline communication and behavioural signals. As a result, when problems do arise for the cat, they go largely unnoticed by owners. Where behavioural problems are identified, there is a mistaken common view that cats are neither able to respond to training or behaviour modification.

By offering the FBQ, the Natural Animal Centre wishes to raise awareness of cat behaviour amongst cat owners and breeders, as well as those students seeking a career in solving feline behavioural problems.

By studying for the FBQ, you will learn:
-how domestic cats have a social structure similar to that of the lion
-that the cat is more territorial than the dog
-what goes on inside cats when they show problems such as fur-tugging or marking indoors
-how to solve problems such as aggression or fear
-how to train cats (using clicker training) to enrich their lives