[Ethology and good health in pets]

Ethology, or the comparative study of behaviour and its biological roots, has made significant contributions to our understanding of companion animal behaviour and thereby, the welfare of these animals. Ethological questions, concepts and methods can be readily applied to companion animal studies and the interpretation of results. In particular, comparison of behaviour shown in a 'reference system' with that exhibited in more restricted environments has proven very useful. Although emphasis has been placed on farm animals in the past, more and more animal protection laws require that regulations and guidelines, including those concerning companion animals, be based upon sound ethological studies. It is only through such observations that we can objectively determine what 'species-typical' behaviour is and what the animal's 'needs' are. Based upon these, recommendations for proper housing conditions can be made, which in turn reduce the number of cases where behavioural disturbances tarnish the relationship between humans and their companion animals. Using past research on the domestic cat and human-cat interactions, the author illustrates these points and makes suggestions for future research.