Skip to main content

Glossary

This glossary establishes a common vocabulary for the Roll Claw project, ensuring clear communication among team members, stakeholders, and users. Terms are organized by category for easier reference.

Colony Management Terms​

Colony​

A group of feral cats living together in a defined geographic area who share resources and territory. Colonies typically form around available food sources and shelter.

Colony Caretaker​

An individual who regularly provides care for a feral cat colony, including feeding, monitoring health, and coordinating TNR efforts. May be referred to as a "colony manager" when they have primary responsibility.

Colony Manager​

The primary caretaker responsible for overseeing all aspects of a colony's care, including coordinating volunteers, maintaining records, and making care decisions.

Feeding Station​

A designated location where food and water are regularly provided to colony cats. Often includes shelter elements and may be the focal point for colony monitoring.

TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return)​

The humane process of trapping feral cats, having them spayed/neutered, vaccinated, ear-tipped, and returning them to their original location. The primary method for managing feral cat populations.

TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return)​

An expanded version of TNR that explicitly emphasizes vaccination against rabies and other diseases as part of the process.

Ear-Tip​

The universal mark of a sterilized feral cat, created by surgically removing the tip of one ear (usually the left) during spay/neuter surgery. Allows visual identification of cats that have already been sterilized.

Community Cat​

A broader term encompassing both feral cats and stray cats living outdoors. Often used in policy and municipal contexts as a more neutral alternative to "feral."

Feral Cat​

A domestic cat that has had little or no human contact and behaves wildly. Typically cannot be handled and is not suitable for adoption as a pet.

Semi-Feral Cat​

A cat that shows some socialization to humans but remains cautious and may allow limited handling under specific circumstances.

Stray Cat​

A previously domesticated cat that has been abandoned or lost. May be friendly toward humans and potentially adoptable.

Indoor/Outdoor Access​

The designated areas where specific cats are allowed or expected to be found. May include categories like "indoor only," "outdoor only," or specific zones within a property.

Location Hierarchy​

The organizational structure of places within a colony, often including broad areas (property) and specific sub-locations (rooms, outdoor zones).

Territory​

The geographic area that a cat or group of cats claims and defends. Understanding territory is important for managing cat dynamics and resource placement.

Territory Dispute​

A conflict between cats over specific areas within the colony, requiring monitoring and potential intervention.

Territory Map​

A visual or data representation of how cats and social groups use different areas within the colony, including preferred locations and conflict zones.

Movement Pattern​

The typical paths and timing of a cat's movement through colony territories, useful for monitoring health and social dynamics.

Territory Sharing​

When multiple cats or social groups cooperatively use the same space, often indicating positive social bonds.

Cat Identification & Health Terms​

Cat Profile​

The complete set of information about an individual cat, including identification characteristics, health history, behavioral patterns, and social relationships.

Sighting​

A recorded observation of a specific cat at a particular time and location. The fundamental tracking event in the Roll Claw system.

Sighting Gap​

The period since a cat was last observed. Extended sighting gaps may trigger alerts for potentially missing cats.

Missing Cat​

A cat that has not been sighted within the expected timeframe based on its typical patterns and colony dynamics.

Coat Pattern​

The distinctive coloration and markings of a cat, used as a primary identification characteristic. Includes solid, tabby, tortoiseshell, calico, pointed, and bicolor varieties.

Distinctive Marks​

Unique physical characteristics that help identify individual cats, such as scars, notches, spots, or behavioral traits.

Social Group​

A subset of cats within a colony that regularly associate with each other, often sharing resources and territory.

Social Bond​

A positive relationship between cats, ranging from casual affiliation to close companionship. May be documented as "friends" in the system.

Conflict Relationship​

A negative interaction pattern between cats, ranging from occasional tension to severe aggression. Important for managing territory and resource access.

Family Relationship​

Maternal, paternal, or sibling connections between cats. May have different levels of confidence based on observation evidence.

Maternal Confidence​

The degree of certainty about a maternal relationship between cats, based on direct observation of birth, nursing, or other evidence.

Paternal Confidence​

The degree of certainty about a paternal relationship between cats, typically lower than maternal confidence due to the nature of feline reproduction.

Health Status​

The current condition of a cat, including any active concerns or monitoring needs. Categories may include "healthy," "monitor," "needs attention," or "critical."

Health Observation​

A specific noted health issue or condition for a cat, including details about symptoms, severity, and timeline.

Cat Timeline​

A chronological sequence of events and observations related to a specific cat. Generated from various event types such as sightings, medical procedures, relationship changes, and status updates. Provides a complete historical narrative of a cat's life within the colony and enables temporal analysis of patterns and changes.

System Architecture Terms​

Event​

A recorded occurrence in the system, such as a cat sighting, health observation, or task completion. The fundamental unit of data in Roll Claw's event-sourcing architecture.

Event Sourcing​

The architectural approach where all changes to application state are stored as a sequence of events, allowing complete historical reconstruction and analysis.

Command​

A request object that represents a user's intent to change the system state. In Roll Claw, commands are processed to generate events and update system state.

Command Handler​

A component that processes commands, performs validation, and generates appropriate events. Roll Claw uses command handlers to enforce business rules and maintain system integrity.

Aggregate​

A cluster of domain objects that are treated as a single unit for data changes. In Roll Claw, aggregates like "Cat" or "Colony" encapsulate related data and behavior.

Projection​

A view of data derived from events, such as a cat profile or colony status summary. Projections provide usable interfaces to the underlying event data.

CQRS (Command Query Responsibility Segregation)​

An architectural pattern that separates read and write operations to optimize for different requirements. Roll Claw implements aspects of CQRS to handle complex queries and commands efficiently.

Bounded Context​

A conceptual boundary within which a domain model is defined and applicable. Roll Claw uses bounded contexts to separate the different areas of the application like cat management, volunteer coordination, and resource tracking.

Synchronization​

The process of updating and reconciling data between devices when connectivity is restored after offline use.

Offline Mode​

The functionality that allows the application to work without an internet connection, storing data locally until it can be synchronized.

Temporal Query​

A specialized database operation that searches and analyzes events based on time patterns, enabling historical analysis of colony data. Features include year-month pattern matching, sequential event correlation, and timeline generation. Essential for identifying long-term trends, seasonal patterns, and the evolution of colony dynamics over time.

Technology Stack Terms​

Elixir​

A functional programming language built on the Erlang virtual machine (BEAM), designed for building scalable and maintainable applications. Roll Claw uses Elixir for its backend services.

Phoenix​

A web framework for Elixir that provides a productive and reliable platform for building web applications. Roll Claw leverages Phoenix for both its API and web interfaces.

LiveView​

A Phoenix framework component that enables real-time, interactive user interfaces without requiring JavaScript. LiveView allows Roll Claw to provide dynamic experiences while maintaining most application logic on the server.

Ecto​

Elixir's database wrapper and query generator that provides a standardized API for database interactions and domain modeling. Roll Claw uses Ecto for all database operations and schema definitions.

GenServer​

A behavior module in Elixir for implementing server processes that maintain state, execute code asynchronously, and communicate with other processes. Roll Claw uses GenServers for managing stateful processes like user sessions and real-time updates.

OTP (Open Telecom Platform)​

A set of libraries and design principles for building robust, fault-tolerant applications in Erlang and Elixir. Roll Claw leverages OTP for handling concurrency, error recovery, and distributed processing.

Tailwind CSS​

A utility-first CSS framework that provides low-level utility classes to build custom designs without leaving HTML. Roll Claw uses Tailwind for responsive and consistent UI styling.

Petal Components​

A set of UI components built with Tailwind CSS for Phoenix LiveView applications. Roll Claw uses Petal Components to enhance development speed and UI consistency.

Progressive Web App (PWA)​

A type of application that combines the best features of web and mobile apps, allowing offline functionality, installation on devices, and app-like interactions. Roll Claw implements PWA features to ensure offline availability.

Service Worker​

A script that runs in the background of a web application, separate from the web page, enabling features like offline functionality, push notifications, and background syncing. Roll Claw uses Service Workers to enable offline operation.

IndexedDB​

A low-level client-side database that allows for storage of significant amounts of structured data on the user's device. Roll Claw uses IndexedDB for offline data storage and event queuing.

Guardian​

An authentication framework for Elixir applications that provides token-based authentication. Roll Claw uses Guardian to manage user authentication and session security.

Phoenix PubSub​

A real-time publisher/subscriber service built into Phoenix that enables messaging between server processes and connected clients. Roll Claw uses PubSub for real-time notifications and updates.

Product and Project Terms​

First Basecamp​

The initial release version of Roll Claw that includes the minimal viable set of features to deliver real value to colony caretakers.

Thin Vertical Slice​

A focused implementation that cuts through all layers of the application stack to deliver a specific, complete piece of functionality. Roll Claw uses thin vertical slices to validate technical approaches and deliver incremental value.

Alert​

A notification about an important situation requiring attention, such as a missing cat, health concern, or approaching task deadline.

Task​

A specific activity that needs to be performed for colony care, such as feeding, cleaning, or medical treatment. Tasks can be assigned to volunteers and tracked to completion.

Recurring Task​

A task that repeats on a scheduled basis, such as daily feeding or weekly maintenance activities.

Task Verification​

The confirmation that a task has been completed, including who performed it, when, and any relevant notes or observations.

Volunteer Management Terms​

Volunteer​

An individual who contributes time and effort to colony care but may not have primary responsibility for the colony's overall management.

Regular Volunteer​

A person who consistently performs specific colony care tasks on a scheduled basis.

Occasional Helper​

Someone who assists with colony care on an irregular or as-needed basis.

Role​

The set of responsibilities and system permissions assigned to a user, such as Colony Manager, Volunteer, or Veterinary Partner.

Task Assignment​

The allocation of a specific responsibility to a volunteer, including what needs to be done, when, and any special instructions.

Shift​

A defined period during which a volunteer is responsible for specific colony care tasks.

Handover​

The transition of responsibility between volunteers, including status updates and important observations.

Volunteer Shift​

A defined time period during which a specific volunteer is responsible for colony care activities. Includes assignment details, scheduled tasks, and handover requirements. Used to ensure continuous care coverage, prevent scheduling conflicts, and maintain accountability for colony management activities.

Health & Medical Terms​

TNR Status​

Whether a cat has been through the TNR process, including spay/neuter surgery, vaccination, and ear-tipping.

Vaccination​

Preventive medical treatment to protect against diseases. Common vaccinations for colony cats include rabies and FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia).

Quarantine​

Temporary isolation of a cat due to infectious disease concerns or post-surgical recovery requirements.

URI (Upper Respiratory Infection)​

A common illness in feral cat colonies, similar to a cold, with symptoms including sneezing, eye discharge, and congestion.

FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)​

A slow-acting virus that affects the immune system of cats, similar to HIV in humans. Can be spread through deep bite wounds.

FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)​

A retrovirus that suppresses the immune system and can cause cancer in cats. Spreads through close contact and shared resources.

FVRCP​

A core vaccination for cats that protects against three common viruses: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia.

Medication Schedule​

A planned sequence of medicine administration, including timing, dosage, and duration of treatment.

Medication Compliance​

The degree to which prescribed medication schedules are followed, important for treatment effectiveness.

Treatment Response​

How a cat reacts to medical intervention, including both intended effects and potential side effects.

Medical Supply Inventory​

Tracking of healthcare-related items including medications, first aid supplies, and treatment materials.

Microchip​

A small electronic device implanted under a cat's skin that contains identification information. Can help reunite lost cats with their colonies or owners.

Medication​

A specialized inventory item used for treating medical conditions in colony cats. Includes properties such as expiration date, dosage form, administration route, and associated treatable conditions. Proper tracking ensures effectiveness, prevents use of expired products, and enables monitoring of treatment outcomes.

Organizations & Partners​

TNR Organization​

A group dedicated to trap-neuter-return activities for community cats, often coordinating volunteers and resources across multiple colonies.

Animal Control​

Municipal department responsible for managing animal-related issues in a community, including stray animals and public health concerns.

Foster Network​

A system of temporary homes for cats that need socialization, medical care, or are candidates for eventual adoption.

Veterinary Partner​

A veterinary practice or clinic that provides medical services for colony cats, often offering discounted services for TNR programs.

Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic​

Traveling veterinary service that provides sterilization procedures, often serving areas with limited access to veterinary care.

Community Outreach​

Activities aimed at educating the public about feral cat management and building support for colony care efforts.

Foster Record​

A value object tracking information about a cat's time in foster care, including start and end dates, fostering individual or organization, purpose of fostering (socialization, medical recovery, etc.), and outcomes. Important for maintaining continuity of care when cats move between colony and temporary foster environments.

Resource Management Terms​

Inventory​

The tracking of supplies needed for colony care, including food, medical items, and equipment.

Consumption Pattern​

The rate at which cats utilize resources, particularly food and water, which may indicate population changes or health issues.

Resource Depletion​

When supplies reach critically low levels, triggering reorder alerts and potential emergency measures.

Resource Optimization​

The process of efficiently using and distributing colony resources based on consumption patterns and needs.

Equipment Lifecycle​

The complete span of equipment usage from installation through maintenance to eventual replacement.

Maintenance Type​

Categories of equipment upkeep including "cleaning," "repair," "replacement," or "relocation."

Donation​

Contributed supplies, funds, or services to support colony care. May be tracked for acknowledgment and resource planning.

Equipment​

Durable items used in colony care, such as feeding stations, shelters, traps, and carriers, that require maintenance and tracking.

Automated Equipment​

Devices that perform colony care tasks automatically, such as litter robots and automated feeders, requiring specific maintenance schedules and monitoring.

Equipment Status​

The operational condition of colony care equipment, including states like "active," "inactive," "pending installation," "pending repair," "malfunctioning," or "decommissioned."

Maintenance Schedule​

A planned sequence of equipment upkeep tasks, including cleaning, repairs, and replacements, based on usage patterns and manufacturer recommendations.

Usage Pattern​

The recorded frequency and manner in which equipment is utilized, helping optimize maintenance schedules and resource allocation.

Litter Box​

A container filled with absorbent material where cats eliminate waste. May be automated (e.g., Litter Robot) or manual, and requires regular maintenance.

Automatic Feeder​

A device that dispenses food at programmed intervals, allowing for consistent feeding even when caretakers cannot be present.

Surveillance Camera​

A specialized equipment type used for colony monitoring, capable of motion detection, footage recording, and remote observation. Often used for security, behavior monitoring, and tracking cat movement patterns. Requires management of storage capacity, maintenance of night vision capabilities, and regular footage review.

Weather & Environmental Terms​

Weather Impact​

How climate conditions affect colony management, including feeding schedules, shelter needs, and cat behavior.

Seasonal Adaptation​

Changes to colony care practices based on the time of year, such as increased food in winter or additional water in summer.

External Threat​

Potential dangers to colony cats from sources such as predators, traffic, construction, or human interference.

Property Access​

The legal status and permissions regarding colony locations, which may affect management practices and long-term stability.

Environmental Hazard​

A condition that poses risk to cats or caretakers, such as toxic substances, dangerous structures, or flooding areas.

Threat​

Any external danger to the colony that requires monitoring and potential intervention. Threats include specialized types such as dog threats, weather threats, disease threats, construction threats, property change threats, vehicle threats, and human threats. Each type requires specific identification, monitoring, and mitigation strategies based on its unique characteristics.

Specialized Threat​

Specific subtypes of threats that require unique monitoring and response protocols. Includes:

  • Dog Threat: Tracking owned or stray dogs, entry methods, and interactions with colony cats
  • Weather Threat: Managing extreme weather conditions and implementing preparation steps
  • Disease Threat: Monitoring contagious conditions, quarantine measures, and transmission patterns
  • Construction Threat: Handling noise, displacement, and coordination with construction companies
  • Property Change Threat: Managing ownership changes, legal status, and potential relocation needs
  • Vehicle Threat: Tracking traffic incidents, dangerous zones, and implementing safety measures
  • Human Threat: Addressing problematic human behaviors affecting the colony