Five Freedoms for Free Roaming Cats
Adapted from the Farm Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, UK
The welfare of a cat includes its physical and mental state and we consider that good cat welfare implies both fitness and a sense of well-being. Any cat cared for by humans, must at least, be protected from unnecessary suffering.
We believe that a cat's welfare, whether a family pet, a cat living on the streets or a barn cat, should be considered in terms of 'five freedoms'.
1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst - by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigor.
2. Freedom from Discomfort - by providing an appropriate environment including shelter from elements and predators and a comfortable resting area.
3. Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease - by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment. This includes preventing the hazards of the reproductive cycle through spay/neuter of all free-roaming and pet cats.
4. Freedom to Express Normal Behavior - by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and sufficient mental stimulation.
5. Freedom from Fear and Distress - by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.
The welfare of a cat includes its physical and mental state and we consider that good cat welfare implies both fitness and a sense of well-being. Any cat cared for by humans, must at least, be protected from unnecessary suffering.
We believe that a cat's welfare, whether a family pet, a cat living on the streets or a barn cat, should be considered in terms of 'five freedoms'.
1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst - by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigor.
2. Freedom from Discomfort - by providing an appropriate environment including shelter from elements and predators and a comfortable resting area.
3. Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease - by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment. This includes preventing the hazards of the reproductive cycle through spay/neuter of all free-roaming and pet cats.
4. Freedom to Express Normal Behavior - by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and sufficient mental stimulation.
5. Freedom from Fear and Distress - by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.
