Vets Say a Standardized Behavior Assessment for Cats Still Doesn't Exist

A recurring theme in veterinary behavior literature is the absence of a standardized, widely used behavior assessment for cats comparable to what exists for dogs. A 2021 clinical review published by Clinician's Brief noted plainly that a formal behavior assessment test for cats is not currently available, even as behavior problems remain a leading cause of shelter relinquishment.

That gap has real consequences. Shelters report that behavior issues are cited as the primary reason for relinquishment in a substantial share of surrendered cats, with house soiling and aggression topping the list, according to multiple shelter industry surveys. Without a standardized intake tool, shelters and owners alike are often left relying on informal histories.

Some structured tools do exist for professional use. The Fe-BARQ (Feline Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire), developed by researchers, offers standardized scoring but is intended for veterinarians, researchers, trainers, and shelters rather than everyday pet owners searching for answers at home.

The gap between professional-grade behavior assessment and what's freely available to the average cat owner has driven interest in consumer-facing tools that translate researched behavioral patterns into plain-language, actionable guidance without requiring professional registration or a clinical setting.

Sources

• Clinician's Brief — Behavior Problems in Adopted Cats & Dogs
• University of Pennsylvania — Fe-BARQ