Verhaltensstudien an Katzen

Abstract

This monograph on cat behavior is based on observations and experiments on thirty caged and numerous free-ranging domestic cats, as well as on other species in many German zoos. The printing is of high quality, on good paper. The illustrations-many halftones and some line drawings—are clear and informative. Subject, species, and author indexes are provided, as well as a four-page Summary in English. Predation and social behavior are emphasized. The stalking methods of cats, the coup de grâce administered by a bite into the nape, and the plucking of feathers or fur before devouring, are described in detail. One learns that small animals are always eaten head first; that cats seldom masticate their food; that domestic cats are specialized for capturing smaller animals than rats, and their ability to kill these rodents depends on their individual “courage,” related in turn to social rank. Being solitary animals by nature, cats do not develop rigid social orders, although under crowded conditions one may assume temporary dominance. In the wild they do defend their fairly large hunting territories, at least in part, as well as their home areas, against intruding cats. Threatening and defensive behavior are described, as well as play, courtship, mating and parental care. Comparisons are drawn to the Viverridae, Mustelidae and some other primitive mammals. It is interesting to note that taxonomic differences between the Felinae and Pantherinae are reflected also in their feeding habits and mating behavior.