The implications of social living in cats

Feline social behaviour is frequently misunderstood by owners, which can lead to people not meeting the species-specific needs of their cats (Felis sylvestris catus). Despite the fact that cats are adaptable and can at times form social bonds with other cats, it should not be forgotten that cats are not obligate social animals and as a result, regularly suffer from chronic stress associated with close, often forced, proximity to other cats. Cats are predators, but are also, being relatively small, preyed upon and thus are adept at hiding signs of stress. Therefore, subtle signs of conflict with other cats, both within the same household and in the local neighbourhood, are easily and frequently missed by the cat's owner. Veterinary practices are ideally placed to provide education on cats' needs, improve cat welfare and, where necessary, to refer to a Clinical Animal Behaviourist registered with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC).