Why Are 39% of Cat Owners Not Giving Their Pets Medication? Study Reveals Shocking Reasons!
A recent study has shed light on the challenges cat owners face when it comes to administering prescribed medications to their pets. Despite extensive research on medication compliance in dogs, limited data exists on the factors influencing medication adherence in cats. This study aimed to identify the barriers preventing cat owners from following veterinary recommendations.
The study surveyed cat owners between January 2019 and July 2020, focusing on those prescribed medication for their pets. The results were eye-opening—39% of cat owners reported noncompliance with their cats' medication regimens. The primary barrier cited by 25% of these owners was a resistant pet, making it difficult to administer the medication, particularly oral antibiotics, which were significantly associated with noncompliance (P = 0.01). Interestingly, owners with less experience in pet ownership were less likely to be noncompliant (P = 0.04).
The findings have important clinical implications. Noncompliance can affect treatment outcomes and complicate efforts like antimicrobial stewardship. The study suggests that veterinarians consider alternative methods of medication administration, such as liquid forms or easier-to-administer options, and stress the importance of demonstrating proper administration techniques to clients. By improving owners’ understanding and techniques for administering medication, veterinary professionals can enhance compliance and ensure better health outcomes for cats.
This research highlights a critical gap in pet care and offers practical solutions to improve medication adherence in cats, ultimately benefiting both pets and owners.
Read full article here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jvim.17298
