Welfare of two cats in a nursing home: impact of the admission of a new resident in a disability unit

Abstract

In 2024, domestic cats (Felis sylvestris catus) are the most common pets in French homes and nursing homes. In nursing homes, older adults often experience limited social networks, social isolation, and loneliness. The permanent presence of a cat can have positive effects (i.e., reduction in feelings of loneliness and depressive symptoms). As a result, many French nursing homes include resident cats. However, few studies assess the welfare of these animals in such contexts. A cat's welfare can be impacted by disruptions in the animal's routine, as observed in nursing homes (i.e., social interactions or environmental changes). This study aimed to assess how the arrival of a new resident in a disability unit of a nursing home affects the welfare and social network of resident cats (Gizmo and Felix). The study was carried out in a unit with twelve residents, nine caregivers, and two cats. Observations were made over 45 hours during a 30-day period, covering three periods: before, during, and after the arrival of a new resident. The cats' activity and the areas they frequented were recorded using the method of all occurrences sampling. Social proximities between cats, residents, and caregivers were recorded every 10 minutes using scan sampling to visualize social networks (e.g., for physical contact). Our study showed that the two cats reacted differently to this change. Gizmo spent more time alerting and avoiding others while occupying a new space: the residents' bedrooms. In contrast, Felix spent less time being active but more time outside the unit. Social network analysis revealed that interactions between caregivers, residents, and the cats were affected. Individuals had the same number of interactions, but not with the same partners. After approximately ten days, several behaviors showed signs of stabilization; however, not all measures returned to pre‑arrival levels, indicating that adjustment process was still ongoing. Cats and humans began to adjust to environmental changes through behavioral shifts and spatial use, creating feedback loops. Tracking these dynamics via social networks highlights cats as welfare stakeholders. The One Welfare approach emphasizes the importance of architectural flexibility and behavior monitoring to improve multispecies care in nursing homes.