Journal article

Publication year: 2024

Pages: 124-136

Journal: Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science

Volume number: 27

Issue number: 1

ISSN: 1088-8705

eISSN: 1532-7604

Open access status: Green

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1080/10888705.2022.2063022

Publisher: Taylor and Francis Group

Abstract: 
Veterinarians play an important role in establishing and sharing the welfare of companion animals by carrying out regular health checks and informing owners about the specific needs of the animal's environment and conditions of good husbandry. A survey among German cat owners revealed which role advice about cat behavior plays in daily practice and its influence on the cat owner's compliance. Some owners (29.6%, n = 263/889) reported behavioral problems in their cat. Not all owners considered their veterinarian as their contact of choice for behavioral advice, although veterinarians who met owners' expectations for advice on cat behavior are significantly more often described as feline-friendly (P < 0.000). Owners who expected an empathetic treatment of their cat will show a better compliance (P = 0.003). Owner compliance can be improved by providing accurate and effective veterinary advice about cat behavior and behavioral problems (P = 0.003). Thus, a sound foundation in cat behavior and knowledge of current treatment recommendations for feline behavioral problems can be worthwhile to ensure good husbandry for cats.

Harvard Citation style: Karn-Buehler, J. and Kuhne, F. (2024) Advice on cat behavior in German veterinary practices:Expectations of cat owners and influencing factors on compliance, Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 27(1), pp. 124-136. https://doi.org/10.1080/10888705.2022.2063022

APA Citation style: Karn-Buehler, J., & Kuhne, F. (2024). Advice on cat behavior in German veterinary practices:Expectations of cat owners and influencing factors on compliance. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science. 27(1), 124-136. https://doi.org/10.1080/10888705.2022.2063022