RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MAN AND CAT: IDENTIFICATION OF PHYSIOLOGICAL STRESS AND FELINE SUFFERING

Abstract

It is notorious the growth of cats inside the homes, being the category of
companion animals with the biggest growth in the world. On the other hand, there
was also an increase in the rate of abandonment, mistreatment and the adoption
of cats is even lower when compared to dogs. Among the reasons for
abandonment, innate behaviors of cats are pointed out, but considered
inappropriate by the tutors. Behavior problems and abandonment affect public
health. On the other hand, the anthropomorphization of cats is also a problem,
as it leads to numerous consequences that compromise feline well-being,
resulting in chronic diseases and, consequently, reducing the animal's longevity.
In addition, stressed or in pain animals have behaviors judged as inappropriate
that lead to abandonment. The objective of the research is to survey the existing
literature on stress physiology and pain determination in cats, aiming to guide
veterinarians and tutors in quickly identifying animal suffering, contributing to
improve animal welfare