Post-Adoption Behavior and Adopter Satisfaction of Cats Across Socialization Likelihoods

Abstract

Introduction: Cats with questionable sociability are routinely adopted into typical home environments, but there has been no published investigation into the welfare of these cats in their adoptive homes or the quality of the adopter experience. The objective of this study was to assess differences in post-adoption behavior and well-being between cats based on their likelihood of being socialized, as well as differences in adopter experience. Methods: This prospective behavioral study surveyed adopters of cats assessed via the Feline Spectrum Assessment (FSA) and a randomly sampled control group (those never suspected of being undersocial) of cats with intake and adoption dates during the same period. Adopters reported on behavioral traits, situational behaviors, and adopter satisfaction. Results: As the likelihood of being undersocial increased, cats were more fearful, less affectionate, and less amenable to approach and petting (more so by strangers, but also by their owners). Adopters of FSA cats reported being slightly less satisfied than control cat adopters. As the likelihood of being undersocial increased adopters were less likely to report a traditional home environment as the best environment for their pet than control cats. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that cats never suspected of being undersocialized experience better welfare than undersocial cats, and their adopters are more satisfied. These results are more pronounced for cats found more likely to be undersocial by the FSA. Although it is becoming increasingly possible to find adoptive homes for poorly socialized cats, it does not appear to be in the best interest of many of these cats or adopters. The results of the FSA may be helpful for making pathway decisions for each cat; evidence suggests that at least FSA 1&2 cats should be slated for Trap Neuter Return (TNR) or barn placement unless significant progress is made in shelter.