Cat owners’ perception towards feline chronic kidney disease: A behavioral study

Abstract

Feline chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an incurable, progressive disease and requires long-term medical attention. However, factors that affect owners’ intention to treat their pets are unknown. This study conducted a quantitative survey to determine cat owners' awareness of CKD, and barriers they experienced in seeking treatment. It also investigated the predictors of cat owners’ intention to treat if their cats are diagnosed with CKD. Based on the theory of planned behavior, an online questionnaire was generated and distributed via a convenient sampling approach, using social media platforms, and sending invitations via e-mail to cat owners. A total of 300 respondents were recruited. Most respondents (86.3 %) were aware that cats are susceptible to CKD, and the main barrier in seeking treatment for CKD was cost-related (70.4 %). All three significant TPB items, namely attitude (β = 0.379, p < 0.01), subjective norms (β = 0.147, p < 0.05), and perceived behavioral control (β = 0.348, p < 0.01) of the cat owners are significant predictors towards intention to treat cats with CKD. Additionally, the results showed that anticipated regret (β = 0.522, p < 0.01) and empathic concern (β = 0.125, p < 0.05) positively influence cat owners' attitudes toward treatment. This study also identified that the veterinarian plays a vital role, as 98 % of the respondents agreed that approval from a veterinarian is essential when seeking treatment for their cats. Therefore, improved veterinarian-client communication would provide better motivational support towards the intention to treat, aiming to improve the quality of life in affected cats. However, further study is necessary to investigate factors affecting the manifestation of the intention into behavior, i.e. deciding to treat.