Advanced Feline Behaviour - Diploma - CPD

As a result of popular demand this programme has been introduced to allow students of Feline Behaviour and Psychology to progress their studies to a higher level. The course is aimed at those planning to work with cats or those already working with cats on a professional basis although it would also be of interest to those cat owners who want an in depth knowledge of cat behaviour.

1) The Effects of Domestication

• The cat as a mammal; the evolution of the cat and its classification
• The domestication of the cat and how artificial selection has led to the development of the breeds
• Normal feline behaviour
• Comparing the time budgets of a wild cat with a domesticated one
• Social groupings of cats, including a look at the different species of felids
• The inheritance of genes for physical and behavioural characteristics

2. The Feline Brain and Senses

• The differences between the divisions of the nervous system
• The different neural pathways between voluntary and involuntary behaviour
• The structure of the nervous system
• Overview of the brain and the functions of the various parts
• Neurotransmitters and how they affect feline behaviour
• The senses of the cat and how they differ from other species
• The formation of memories

3. Internal Influences on Behaviour

• Homeostasis and the normal physiology of the body
• The effects of diet on behaviour
• How health and physiology can affect feline behaviour
• Various medical conditions are covered, and their behavioural effects
• The effects of hormones on behaviour
• The effects of pharmacology on behaviour

4. External Influences on Behaviour

• The external factors that can affect the behaviour of a cat
• The environment in which the cat lives, and the experiences it has had
• The interactions between other cats, and also with people
• The importance of socialisation in early life, and sensitive periods
• The different ways that cats learn
• Scientific research that has been carried out into the social development of kittens
• The problems that can occur due to poor socialisation
• The ways that cats cope with environmental pressure
• The effects of a cattery environment on behaviour and stress levels

5. Identifying Causes of Problem Behaviour

• Maintaining a professional image when working as a behaviourist
• The importance of excellent communication skills
• The business aspects of working as a behaviourist
• Dealing with clients and difficult situations
• The many possible causes of a particular behavioural problem
• Environment, nature, nurture, pharmacological, physiological causes
• How we can diagnose the cause of behaviour
• Designing history sheets to use during client consultations

6. Dealing with Problem Behaviour

• Giving instructions to clients and holding a behavioural consultation
• Dealing with difficult situations
• Devising suitable behavioural treatment programmes
• Different approaches to behavioural modification including the principles of reinforcement
• Dealing with fear responses in cats
• Prevention of problems
• Designing promotional material
• Case study of a behavioural problem