Feline Behavior Support
The purpose of the Feline Behavior Support volunteer program is to improve feline welfare through structured observation, socialization, and behavioral assessment. Staff and Volunteers participating in this program provide valuable information regarding each cat’s emotional wellbeing, sociability, and placement needs while helping cats become more comfortable with human interaction.
Essential Functions:
Respect feline body language
Observe feline body language and behavior
Prioritize feline welfare and safety
Record behavioral assessment scores accurately
Provide beneficial social interaction and enrichment
Monitor stress and comfort levels during interactions
Report concerns, injuries, or behavioral incidents to staff immediately
Follow all sanitation and disease prevention protocols
Communicate observations to the Animal Care Behavior Specialist
Environment:
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Exposure to odors, animal waste, and cleaning chemicals
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Possible exposure to cats who may become overstimulated and may scratch or bite
Requirements:
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Minimum age of 18 years
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Ability to follow instructions given by a staff member and with minimum supervision
- Comfortable in close proximity to cats
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Physically capable of handling cats of various temperaments
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Willingness to learn about cats and how to properly/humanely interact with them
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Concern for the welfare of cats and support ARL’s policies and mission
Session Parameters
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Keep sessions brief and focused. (5-10 minutes)
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Only engage with a cat when the cat is receptive; respect its choice to disengage or be left alone.
Required Training
Prior to participating in the program, volunteers must complete the following training:
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In person training session with Behavior Team
(2 hours complete training time)
Volunteers may not independently perform assessments until all required training has been completed and approved by staff
Cat Colony Procedures
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Volunteers must wear latex gloves during colony interactions. Volunteers can only visit 1 colony per session.
Cage-Side Interaction Procedures
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Volunteers must wear latex gloves during cage-side interactions.
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Gloves must be changed between each cat.
Dress Code:
- Volunteer T-shirt (optional)
- Volunteer Nametag (not optional)
- Long Pants
- Closed Toe Shoes (preferably non-slip)
