Research Explores Benefits of Walking Shelter Cats in Strollers

Over 3 million cats are admitted to shelters in the United States each year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Julianna Scardina, a student in the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2024, recognizes that the stress associated with long-term shelter living can negatively affect cat behavior, which often leads to slower adoption rates. To address this issue, she joined a research project led by Erica Feuerbacher, an associate professor in the School of Animal Sciences, in collaboration with the Montgomery County Animal Care and Adoption Center.

The study aims to determine if training shelter cats to use strollers could serve as a cost-effective way to enhance their well-being and improve adoption prospects. Allie Andrukonis, a postdoctoral research associate, noted that while dogs in shelters often enjoy outdoor walks and playtime, cats typically remain confined to their kennels. Scardina added that creating cat patios, or “cattios,” may not be feasible for many shelters due to space and funding limitations.

Scardina explained the potential benefits of using strollers for outdoor activities: they provide a safe way for owners to take their cats outside without the risks of stray animals and parasites. Some cats do not adapt well to leash walking, making strollers an appealing alternative.

The research team observed the behavior of the shelter cats over several days, assessing their well-being and behavior changes after a 15-minute stroll in the stroller. Some cats underwent desensitization training to adjust to the stroller. The researchers documented various feline behaviors to gauge comfort levels; any signs of stress, such as yowling or crouching, prompted immediate removal from the situation.

Jennifer Henry, a staff member at the Montgomery County Animal Care and Adoption Center, commented on the positive interactions between students and the cats, noting that such experiences help build confidence in the animals.

Applying this research involves adapting to the unique environment of the shelter where each day can be different for the cats. The varying personalities and backgrounds of shelter cats also influence their behavior during the study, with some being adopted before the research concluded.

While it is too early to definitively conclude that strollers are a solution, preliminary results indicate that cats can be trained to ride in them and that the experience might not be stressful. There are also initial signs that outdoor stroller rides could foster more social behavior in cats toward humans.

This research project has also provided valuable experiences for the student researchers involved. Yhakira Gray, participating in the Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP), mentioned that her discomfort with cats has decreased through this project, while fellow student Yasmeen Gomez expressed enthusiasm about integrating research with veterinary experiences.

Looking ahead, the research team plans to implement a volunteer walk program at the shelter to further evaluate the impact of stroller walks on adoption rates and investigate how walking with cats might enhance the human-animal bond. They view this research as a foundational step for future studies on the effects of outings on cat adoption.

The team encourages the community to visit the cats at the Montgomery County Animal Care and Adoption Center and consider taking one out for a stroll. The study is part of the 2023 Summer Veterinary Research Program, with contributions from undergraduate students and mentorship from faculty in animal behavior and welfare.