Feline-ality Item 2: Introduction to Novel Space

Introduction to Novel Space is designed to determine the cat's valiance in new situations and sociability to strangers when given some adjustment time and the freedom to approach or retreat as he wishes. Valiance refers to the cat's boldness and response to new stimuli.

Transporting the Cat between Assessment Items 1 and 2

1. After you complete the Greeting Approach item, place the carrier on the floor so that the open door faces up. Put the cat back inside, back end first.
2. Secure the door, and move to the Novel Room.
3. In the novel Room, prepare the two stopwatches. As soon as you open the carrier door, start the first stopwatch and begin the assessment for Item 2.

Feline-ality in Action

Watch the Introduction to Novel Space item in action.

Common Errors during Assessment

• Crate placed so that the evaluator cannot see into the crate.
• Evaluator attempts to engage the cat.
• Evaluator ends assessment before the five minutes are up.
• Shelter environment outside the Novel Room is distracting to the cat.