Feline-ality Item 5: Stroking

The Stroking item is designed to determine the cat's tolerance/enjoyment of petting. Defensive behaviors during this item correlate with difficulty in handling for veterinary care, grooming, etc. Cats with high scores on this item are likely to be easier to handle and more affectionate than cats with low scores.

Feline-ality in Action

Watch the Stroking item in action.

Common Errors during Assessment

• Evaluator strokes the cat more than five times.
• The evaluator begins by touching the back end of the cat as opposed to behind the ears.
• Shelter environment outside the Novel Room is distracting to the cat.