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Early weaning increases aggression and stereotypic behaviour in cats.
Milla K Ahola1,2,3,4, Katariina Vapalahti1,2,3, Hannes Lohi5,6,7
1Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
Scientific Reports
|September 6, 2017
Summary
Early weaning in domestic cats (<12 weeks) significantly increases aggression risk. Delayed weaning (after 14 weeks) improves feline behavior and welfare, reducing aggression and stereotypic actions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Behavior
- Feline Welfare
Background:
- Behavioral issues are prevalent in companion cats, potentially indicating chronic stress.
- Early weaning in laboratory animals is linked to aggression, anxiety, and stereotypic behaviors.
- Limited research exists on early weaning's impact on domestic cats, despite common practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of early weaning (<12 weeks) on the behavior of domestic cats.
- To identify specific age thresholds for weaning and their correlation with behavioral outcomes.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for improving feline welfare through adjusted weaning practices.
Main Methods:
- A large-scale questionnaire survey of 5726 home-living domestic cats across 40 breeds.
- Data collection focused on weaning age and observed behavioral problems.
- Statistical analysis to determine the relationship between weaning age and specific behaviors.
Main Results:
- Weaning before 8 weeks of age significantly increases the risk of aggression but not fearfulness.
- Cats weaned after 14 weeks showed reduced aggression towards strangers compared to early-weaned cats.
- Later weaning (after 14 weeks) was associated with a lower probability of stereotypic behavior (excessive grooming) compared to weaning at 12 weeks.
- The impact of weaning age on stereotypic behavior was partially mediated by its effect on aggression.
Conclusions:
- Early weaning (<12 weeks) has a detrimental effect on the behavior of domestic cats.
- Delayed weaning is a simple, cost-effective strategy to enhance feline welfare.
- Adjusting weaning practices can mitigate behavioral problems and improve the lives of companion cats.
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