AVS: The Science Of Feline Behaviour
• Cat Behaviour, Handling & Training 25 Jan 2021, 4pm – 5.30pm • Cat Enrichment For Welfare 26 Jan 2021, 4pm – 5.30pm
With increasing pet ownership in Singapore, the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS), a cluster of the National Parks Board (NParks), has been focusing its public outreach efforts on raising awareness on responsible pet ownership and animal ethology.
Targeted at industry professionals, and pet owners alike, the second session of the “Science Behind Animal Behaviour” webinar was held on 25 and 26 Jan this year. Two international animal behaviourists were on hand to share the scientific discipline of feline behaviour and training over two days. With a greater understanding in this area, it is hoped that pet owners can contribute to positive changes in the way they interact with our feline companions.
On 25 Jan, Linda Ryan is a Veterinary Technician Specialist in Behaviour and Oncology, and a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist
(for cats & dogs), delved into topics centred on cat behaviour and the principles of handling and training cats.
The following day,
Dr Jenna Kiddie, Visiting
Research Fellow, University of Cumbria shared how enrichment – which provides mental and physical stimulation – can be used to reduce stress and improve our feline friends’ well-being. Her interest in companion animal welfare developed during her time at Bristol Veterinary School, where she was a Senior Clinical Training Scholar in Cat Behaviour and Welfare.
Both online events produced a flurry of questions fielded by registered participants at the end of each session. These educational programmes and resources are a key part of AVS’ efforts to improve the health and welfare of our companion animals via a holistic pet sector review.
• To watch a repeat of the webinars, log on to: https://www.youtube.com/nparkssg
• For more of AVS’ webinars on animal health, welfare and behaviour, log on to: www.go.gov. sg/avswebinar. p