This type of restraint is called the “cowl technique.” A pillowcase, flannel baby blanket, or thin hand towel is rolled into a tube and wrapped quickly around the neck like a doughnut to hold the head. The point of restraint is like scruffing but does not create the association of pain with hands or handling.

This month’s topic is one that comes often, and it is frequently asked by clients at the clinic where I work. The question is, “How do I get my cat to go in the carrier easier?”

As practices and shelters are looking to incorporate Low Stress Handling skills into their daily routines, our work at CattleDog Publishing continues to grow. I recently traveled to the Midwest to present full day seminars on Low Stress Handling. I had a wonderful group of DVM’s, technicians, trainers, and some of the staff from Indy Humane. Colleen Benson, the head of the behavior team at Indy Humane gave me a tour of the facility. It was there that I found Dr. Liz Rose busily hanging shelves, painting crates, and creating a “cat-astic” space for the adoptable cats. This wonderful area

Africanwildcat2-Blog Today’s domestic cat looks quite similar to its ancestor, the African wildcat. In many ways, our pet cats today are not that different from their wild ancestor, the African wildcat. They even look similar. According to Wild Cats Magazine, the African wildcat is mostly nocturnal, hides during the day, tries to intimidate opponents by making itself look larger, and females defend their territory against intruders. Sound familiar? African wildcats, as well as feral cats, are solitary hunters. This makes perfect sense if you think about it: Their prey might include mice, birds, even insects. Not really enough food to invite

Here are three of the most common scenarios for “missing the box:”

Companion animal behavior consultants have a saying: “You better like cats who urinate outside of the litter box. This is the bread and butter of feline behavior.” Very true. A behaviorist is contacted not for the first or fifth offense, but later, after much damage has been done to the home. Recognizing how stress impacts the urinary system of cats, veterinarians turn to feline behaviorists to help reduce this stress, especially when Feline Idiopathic (Interstitial) Cystitis is diagnosed. Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC) is a physical, medical, and behavioral problem that results in on again/off again bouts of painful urination. Sudden onset