Review article

https://doi.org/10.46419/vs.53.5.13

Factors and issues of pet cat welfare

Željko Pavičić ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Leon Pečarić ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Ivana Sabolek ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Kristina Matković ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Mario Ostović ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia

Abstract

Cats are among the most numerous pet animals in the Western world. As pets, they depend on their owners and often are exposed to stressful stimuli due to the lack of owner knowledge and information about their species/breed-specific needs. This paper summarises the most common and prominent factors and issues of pet cat welfare. The main causes of poor cat welfare are primarily inadequate accommodation and nutrition along with the inability to express species- specific behaviour. Such conditions can result in the onset of disease, behavioural disorders, or unwanted behaviours. Therefore, owners should be informed about their pet’s needs before obtaining a cat to ensure its good physical and mental health.

Keywords

cats; pet animals; behaviour; health; animal welfare

Hrčak ID:

271843

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/271843

Publication date:

20.12.2021.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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