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The Influence of Kitten Training and Socialization Classes on the Kitten-Human Bond |
Monday, May 28, 2018 |
12:00 PM–12:20 PM |
Marriott Marquis, Marina Ballroom D |
Area: AAB |
Instruction Level: Basic |
Chair: Kristyn Vitale Shreve (Oregon State University) |
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The Influence of Kitten Training and Socialization Classes on the Kitten-Human Bond |
Domain: Applied Research |
KRISTYN VITALE SHREVE (Oregon State University), Monique Udell (Oregon State University ) |
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Abstract: Despite the popularity of pet cats, relatively little scientific research has investigated how human interaction influences cat behavior. This study examined the influence of a training and socialization class on the kitten-human bond. Data was collected for 95 kittens aged 3-8 months at two time points. Both tests included a secure base test, allowing for categorization of kitten attachment style (secure or insecure) and a sociability test. Fifty kittens experienced a 6-week training and socialization class between testing sessions, 45 kittens served as controls. Preliminary results for 15 class and 15 control kittens do not indicate a significant difference in the number of individuals between groups classified as secure or insecure in either pre-test (p = 0.45) or post-test (p = 1). For sociability data, there was no significant difference in time spent near owner in the pre-test inattentive (p = 0.83) or attentive state (p = 0.58). The same was found in the post-testing (inattentive p = 0.88; attentive p = 0.19). Although preliminary data do not indicate training classes significantly influence kitten behavior, the full dataset may reveal other findings. Additionally, there may be other benefits to participation in classes, such as a change in owner perception. |
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