Welfare aspects of identification and marking methods for domestic cats
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2016 |
Authors: |
R. Binder, V. Heizmann, J. Troxler |
Publication/Journal: |
Wiener Tierarztliche Monatsschrift |
Keywords: |
collars, dogs, ear tags, ear tipping, feral cats, mice, microchip transponder, microchips, permanent identification, pet cats, population control, site, tattoo, tnr-programmes, veterinary sciences, working group |
ISBN: |
0043-535X |
Abstract:
Uncontrolled reproduction of (feral and semi-feral) domestic cats can seriously impair the welfare of the animals and can also lead to social conflicts in the community. Neutering programmes are internationally accepted as a means to control the reproduction of feral and semi-feral cats that conforms to animal welfare. Such programmes involve catching, neutering and returning cats to their colony (trap, neuter and return programme); cats may be additionally provided with medical care and then monitored (trap, test, vaccinate, return and monitor programme). To avoid inefficient and repeated trapping, cats that have been neutered should be easy to identify. This paper presents an overview of the methods used for marking and identifying different groups of domestic cats, focusing in particular on the use of microchip-transponders, tattooing and ear tipping. The methods are discussed and compared with respect to potential health hazards, animal welfare, feasibility and efficiency. As the topic has scarcely been considered in the scientific literature in German-speaking countries, it was necessary to draw on publications of animal welfare organizations and experience reports.