Cats have evolved specific behavioral needs that must be met for good welfare. Understanding the three core pillars — hunting, hiding, and height — guides effective home enrichment.
Cat behavioral welfare is built on a small number of deeply evolved needs that are easy to understand once articulated but frequently unmet in home environments. Hunting: cats need to stalk, chase, and pounce — whether or not prey is present. Hiding: cats need spaces to withdraw to that feel safe and enclosed. Height: cats need to survey their territory from elevated positions. When these needs are not met, the consequences are visible: chronic stress, frustration, and the behavioral and physical health problems that follow. The good news is that meeting these needs is not expensive or difficult — it requires understanding, not money.