The importance of the facial and body expressions interpretation of domestic feline in clinical practice

Abstract

Felines can express several emotions through their behavior. Based on this, it is essential to understand the meaning of the feline body and facial expressions since they will assist in carrying out the procedures safely and without causing discomfort to the patient. Therefore, this article aimed to evaluate the behavior and welfare of felines through the visualization of body language during clinical care and the procedures performed. Thirty adult felines, 16 females and 14 males participated in this study, all neutered and mixed breed. The felines were exposed to several clinical procedures during the physical examination, blood pressure measurement by the non-invasive method, assessment of the body condition score and morphometric measurements, electrocardiogram examination, and blood collection. The behavioral assessment observed the most prevalent facial and postural expression. In general, most felines reacted well to the procedures performed and felt comfortable with relaxed and alert facial and body expressions. Few animals showed signs of fear. Thus, the use of practices aimed at welfare together with the use of feline synthetic facial pheromone contributed positively to the results found. Therefore, it is concluded that most felines show signs of relaxation and welfare during the manipulation of the clinical examination and the performance of the procedures with a quiet and safe environment for care and also with the use of feline synthetic facial pheromone.