BVA highlights most pressing cat welfare issues
Survey released that 24 per cent of cats seen in practice are not having all of their welfare needs met.
To mark International Cat Day yesterday (8 August), the British Veterinary Association (BVA) shared the results of a recent survey, revealing the most pressing cat welfare issues according to UK veterinary surgeons.
The data comes from the BVA Spring 2022 Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey, and the BVA is urging cat owners to ensure that they are meeting their cats' welfare in regard to the issues raised.
According to the BVA survey, the most significant health and welfare issues affecting cats right now are:
• obesity
• behavioural problems/stress from living in a multi-cat household
• dental issues
• health issues linked to extreme conformation
• owners not accessing preventative veterinary care.
Of these issues, veterinary surgeons identified obesity and excessive weight as the most pressing, with 43 per cent suggesting that it was the most significant issue.
Behavioural problems and stress related to multi-cat households were cited by 41 per cent. Dental issues were mentioned by 34 per cent, extreme conformation was mentioned by 26 per cent and lack of preventative veterinary care was mentioned by 19 per cent.
Dr Justine Shotton, BVA president, said: “Cats are among the nation’s favorite pets and we know that the vast majority of owners want to provide the best possible home for their much-loved felines.
“Cats have a reputation for being easy to care for and unfortunately, we know that that can sometimes lead to important welfare needs being overlooked.
“To mark International Cat Day 2022 we are asking all cat owners to consider whether they might be inadvertently missing something that is key to their cats’ health and wellbeing.
“If you think there may be an issue please seek advice from you vet, who can help you to ensure your pet is getting the best care possible to reduce stress and stay healthy.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
