Scottish Government

ISBN 978 0 7559 8266 0
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Contents

Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats

Preface

Introduction

Section 1: The Need for a Suitable Environment
Sleeping and resting areas
Hygiene
Household hazards
Safety at night
When travelling
Toileting

Section 2: The Need for a Suitable Diet
Balanced diet
A cat's healthy weight
How often to feed your cat
Other dietary needs

Section 3: The Need to be Able to Exhibit Normal Behaviour Patterns
Early experiences
Boredom and frustration
Signs of stress
Avoiding danger
Hunting behaviour
Claw conditioning
Reproductive behaviour
Exercise

Section 4: Any Need to be Housed with, or Apart from, other Animals
Socialisation
Relations with other cats
Relations with other animals and people
When you are away from home
Number of animals

Section 5: The Need to be Protected from Suffering, Injury and Disease
Health care
Illness
Grooming
Neutering
Identification
What to do if your cat is missing
Euthanasia

Appendix 1: The Law

Appendix 2: Sources of Information