Abstract
This book is the third in a series of academic texts considering aspects of welfare of the major animal species. Written by authors from a number of countries it is highly readable and informative. The book should enable those caring for domestic cats, in whatever capacity, to better comprehend their needs by increasing their understanding.
Much of the discussion is related to our current knowledge of the natural behaviour of the domestic cat's ancestors, while the comprehensive reference lists readily allow for further exploration of each topic.
The first four chapters review the social behaviour, communication and development of cats; assessment of welfare; human–cat relationships; and problem behaviour.
Chapter five deals with overpopulation, contributory factors, including the difficulties encountered with sterilisation programmes, and human attitudes both to pet relinquishment and adoption. Restricted to evidence derived from the US it seems broadly applicable to similar situations in other countries.
Next, the various options for population control of feral cats are presented with worldwide examples. The impact on biodiversity and native species when the domestic feline is introduced to new locations plus the effect upon wildlife where the cat is long established is then discussed, before brief appraisals of the public health implications and welfare of feral populations.
Consideration is then given (chapter seven) to the welfare aspects of housing. These include the social and physical components of the cat's life with an overview of environmental enrichment based on the various factors that must be considered and balanced in the home, laboratory, or rescue centre.
Chapter eight charts the impact of disease on the welfare of the individual and groups of cats. Infectious conditions, their management, the need for better recognition of pain and more effective means of controlling it, are especially highlighted.
‘Nutrition and welfare’, which follows, clearly details feline nutritional requirements, and the effects on them of feeding behaviour, before examining the different needs of cats in various life stages and disease states.
Finally, welfare compromise associated with irresponsible breeding of pedigree animals, legislation aimed at controlling the worst excesses, and suggested measures for ensuring success are presented in chapter ten.
This is a highly recommended work, which should be of especial value to general practitioners, students, animal technicians and those working with cats in the rescue situation.
