1997/02/01 by M de Monte, M. De Monte, G Le Pape +1 · 1 citation
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Psychology · #Human-Animal Interaction Studies #Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior #Psychological and Educational Research Studies
paper · doi:10.1017/s0962728600019394
openalex publication_date 1997/02/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/30
Abstract The behaviour of 10 adult individually-caged male cats was measured either in their normal cage or with additional objects, a log and a ball. Each cat was observed during five days in each condition. Results show an important novelty effect at the beginning of observations, especially for rubbing and paddling behaviour. Introduction of objects in the cages resulted in a decrease in inactivity and self-play activities, and an increase in sniffing objects and play behaviours with objects. This was particularly important with the ball. Whereas these modifications decreased over days with the log, a high level of activity was maintained with the ball. The importance of the movement and of the function of the object is discussed. An improved way of rearing isolated cats is suggested.