Abstract
The FelineVMA acknowledges that essential to preserving the optimal physical, emotional and cognitive health of our feline companions is providing them with an environment that meets their natural and normal behavioral needs. 1 Several behavioral disorders2,3 and medical diseases 4 seen in the feline patient are secondary to distress (an individual’s inability to cope) induced by an indoor-only living environment.5–8
Cats are highly intelligent, naturally curious and active animals whom humans have chosen to take into their homes as companion animals. Many cats who live only indoors do not have their essential environmental needs met. The veterinary profession has an opportunity to educate cat caregivers on how to provide the fundamental requirements for a feline species-specific environment. 3 Veterinary professionals also have the opportunity to educate caregivers about the additional work needed to meet these needs in households inhabited by two or more cats.3,5 Meeting each cat’s essential environmental needs by providing the five pillars of a healthy feline environment (Figure 1) will minimize their distress and the incidence of both behavioral disorders and stress-related medical diseases.
