Cat-Friendly Housing
What minimum floor space (m2) is recommended per cat in a multi-cat indoor environment?
At least 2-3m2 of floor space per cat, plus vertical space (shelves, cat trees) to reduce territorial conflict.
How many litter trays should a household with 3 cats have?
4 trays
Rule: one per cat PLUS one extra
For choice and control.
Skilled hunters; roaming cats kill birds, lizards, and small mammals; Major conservation concern.
At what age should kittens receive their first vaccination and what disease does a core vaccine cover?
1. vaccine at 6-8 weeks of age: Core vaccine - Feline Herpesvirus (cat flu), Feline Calicivirus (cat flu), Feline Panleukopaenia (Feline distemper)
Name at least THREE environmental enrichment items essential for an indoor-only cat.
Anything that supports natural behaviour: scratching post, climbing trees/elevated shelves, hiding spots/snuggle sacks/igloo, puzzle feeders, window perch, tunnels, interactive toys, ...
What litter tray size is recommended relative to the cat's body length?
1.5 times the cat's body length (nose to tail base) - most commercial trays are too small.
Name THREE legal or regulatory responsibilities of cat owners in New Zealand.
Registration (only some councils), mandatory microchipping (since 2025?), desexing requirements in some councils, nuisance or roaming bylaws, duty of care under Animal Welfare Act 1999 (meet physical, health & behavioural needs)
What is Body Condition Score (BCS) and how is it assessed in cats?
Standardised 1-9 (1-5) scale assessing fat cover and muscle mass. Visual & palpation of ribs, spine, and waist. Score of 4-5/9 is ideal.
Name at least THREE considerations for a 'cat-proof' outdoor enclosure (catio).
Escape-proof fencing (inward rolling tops or netting), no toxic plants, shade & shelter, safe surfaces, secure entry & exit points (dep. on context: double-doors, micro-chip controlled cat door, etc.)
Name TWO reasons a cat might stop using their litter tray.
Any two: tray too small, wrong litter type/depth, not cleaned frequently enough, location too busy/noisy, medical issues (UTI, constipation), negative association, tray hooded when cat prefers open
Describe THREE practical methods to contain a cat to a property.
Fully enclosed catio/run; cat=proof fencing system (roller tops or angle brackets), GPS tracking collar for monitoring; microchipping and ID tagging for recovery; cat door with M/C reader
Describe a correct nail trimming procedure for a cat and how often it should be done.
Use purpose-made cat nail clippers. Clip only the very tip to avoid the quick (blood & nerve supply). Check weekly, clip every 3-6 weeks as needed.
Explain the concept of 'vertical territory' and why it matters for cat wellbeing.
Cats feel safer when elevated. Vertical spaces (shelves, cat trees) increase perceived territory, reduces stress in multi-cat homes, and provides escape routes from conflict.
How frequently should a litter tray be fully emptied and disinfected, and what cleaner should you use?
Spot clean throughout the day, full clean at least weekly (more often if needed or depending on context); use unscented pet-safe disinfectant or diluted bleach (well rinsed). Avoid strong scents - cats avoid scented trays.
Name THREE ways that desexing a cat affects its behaviour.
Significantky reduced urge to roam, reduced fighting, reduced spraying, reduced vocalisation, increases weight
Explain the difference between ad libitum, portion-controlled and puzzle feeding, and which is best for weight management?
1. Ad libitum = food always available (obesity risk)
2. Portion-controlled = set meals
3. Puzzle feeders = portions delivered through enrichment
2. & 3. slows intake & provides mental stimulation
Give one example for each Animal Welfare Domain and how you can provide positive experiences related to housing under each domain.
Health: non-slip safe flooring to prevent injuries | housing are easy to clean
Behavioural Interactions: adequate space for natural behaviour | allow for social interaction but also separation as needed (allow for play, exploration, social bonding)
Nutrition: multiple feeding areas to reduce competition | offer food with puzzle feeders | separate feeding areas from resting and toileting areas (safety, natural behaviour, hygiene & comfort)
Physical Environment: shelter, shade, ventilation | comfortable soft, dry & clean bedding (thermal comfort & physical ease)
Mental State: stimulating housing features to allow natural behaviour | consistent routines & safe spaces (security, curiosity, confidence)
What zoonotic risk is associated with cat faeces, and who is most at risk?
Toxoplasma gondii - most at risk are pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Always wear gloves when cleaning trays.
What is TNR and how is it used to manage community/feral cat populations?
Trap-Neuter-Return. Feral cats are humanely trapped, desexed and ear-tipped (to identify as neutered), then returned to their colony. Reduces population over time and is considered more humane and effective than lethal control.
A cattery cat is scratching and has small black specks in its coat. What is this and was is the treatmet protocol?
Flea dirt (digested blood).
Vet-approved topical or oral flea product for ALL pets in the household. Treat environment (wash bedding, vacuum, flea bomb)