Dogs
How do you prevent destructive behaviour in dogs?
Toys + Dog proofing
What is an appealing object to prevent destructive behaviour in cats?
Any one of: Toys, Scratching Objects, Catnip
Is aggression normal for our pets?
Yes, it is an instinctual response.
What type of aggression do birds usually show?
Fear-induced
What is a stimulus?
A change in the environment that evokes a response in a being.
(Double points) What is a problem which results in destructive behaviour in dogs?
Seperation anxiety; normal development processes
How can you make a scratching post/area more appealing?
Add catnip/catnip balls, use previously scratched fabric/texture.
What is the form of aggression when a mother cat hisses at a human touching it's kittens called?
What can you introduce baby birds to?
Other animals, they also have a period for socializing.
Define operant conditioning.
Learning process where voluntary behaviors are modified by association with the addition (or removal) of reward or negative stimuli.
How long should the ideal time period to keep a dog in a cage?
1-3 hours
Why do cats scratch? (Give 2 reasons)
Stretches muscles, Greetings, Leave marks
(Double points) What does an animal do if it shows predatory aggression?
Pouncing with no warning growl
What animals are birds similar in regards to behavioural development?
Dogs and Cats
What is anthropomorphism? Provide 1 example on this term.
Term used to describe attribution of human characteristics onto an animal.
Ex. Expecting a dog to feel guilty when it messes up during training
What is a method to reduce aggressive behaviour in males?
Castration
What type of substrate could a cat develop a preference to?
Preference to fine grained substrates.
What results in conflict related aggression?
Inappropriate use of punishment.
Result in unpredictable environment.
What is a repetitive action done by a horse called?
Cribbing
(Double points) Which animals can be taught to use a litter box? Give 5 animals.
Cats, Dogs, Pigs, Ferrets, Rabbits.
What type of conditioning is Clicker training and what is the optimal time between the reward and the action?
It is a combination of operant and classical conditioning. <0.5 secs between reward and actions.
(Double points) What are the 5 points to consider for proper litter boxes?
1. Place the box in quiet locations
2. Use unscented litter
3. Depth should be 2 inches
4. Scoop daily and wash weekly
5. Easy to find for the cat
What are the common complaints of dog owners and cat owners for aggression.
Dogs: aggressive towards other people
Cats: aggressive towards other cats
What could cribbing be caused by?
Genetics or environmental factors.
What are the ideal periods for socialization for dogs AND cats?
3-12 weeks, 2-7 weeks.