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Behavioural Profile Differences Between Cats in Animal-Assisted Services (AAS) and Non-AAS Cats Using the Fe-BARQ in
Joni Delanoeije1,2, Christel Palmyre Henri Moons3, Els Helena Karel Anna Peeters4
1Work and Organisation Studies, Faculty of Economics and Business, KU Leuven, Hendrik Conscienceplein 8 Box 3530, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|January 11, 2025
Summary
Cats in animal-assisted services (AAS) show distinct behavioral profiles, differing from non-AAS cats in sociability and restraint. This suggests potential selection for traits beneficial to AAS engagement.
Area of Science:
- Animal behavior
- Human-animal interaction
- Veterinary science
Background:
- Feline suitability for animal-assisted services (AAS) is debated due to perceived behavioral conflicts.
- Within-species behavioral variability in cats is crucial but often overlooked in AAS contexts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the behavioral profiles of cats involved in AAS with those not engaged in AAS.
- To identify potential behavioral differences that might influence AAS participation or adaptation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Flemish translation of the Feline Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire (Fe-BARQ).
- Collected cross-sectional survey data from 474 cats (AAS and non-AAS groups).
- Employed Mann-Whitney U-tests to analyze differences in 19 behavioral subscales.
Main Results:
- AAS cats exhibited significantly higher scores in sociability with people, attention seeking, sociability with cats, and predatory behavior.
- AAS cats demonstrated significantly lower scores in resistance to restraint compared to non-AAS cats.
- Significant differences were observed across five of the 19 behavioral subscales.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest that cats in AAS may possess or be selected for specific behavioral traits conducive to AAS engagement.
- The study provides initial validation for the Flemish Fe-BARQ translation in assessing AAS cats' behavior.
- Further research is needed to explore the reasons behind these behavioral differences and their implications for cat welfare in AAS.
