AAFP and ISFM feline environmental needs guidelines

Ellis and colleagues, on behalf of the American Association of Feline Practitioners and the International Society of Feline Medicine, produced consensus guidelines defining the environmental needs of domestic cats. The guidelines articulate five pillars of a healthy feline environment: a safe space, multiple and separated key resources such as food, water, litter and resting areas, opportunity for play and predatory behaviour, positive and predictable human social interaction, and respect for the cat's sense of smell and chemical communication. Grounded in the cat's natural behaviour and stress physiology, the document translates research into practical recommendations for homes and clinics to reduce stress-related illness and behaviour problems. Widely adopted by veterinarians and behaviourists, the guidelines have become a foundational reference for environmental enrichment and welfare-centred husbandry of pet cats.