Understanding the context for pet cat and dog feeding and exercising behaviour among pet owners in Ireland: a qualitative study

Abstract

BackgroundPet cat and dog obesity contributes to increased risk of several diseases, including cancer and diabetes mellitus as well as a worsening of orthopaedic problems, and a reduction in survival rate. This study aims to develop a better understanding of cat and dog owners’ self-reported beliefs and factors that influence owner behaviour around feeding and exercising their pet cat or dog, as there is a lack of in-depth understanding in this area. Seven focus group discussions, with 43 pet owners in total, were conducted.ResultsPet owners often reported a perceived a low level of control over feeding; often undermined by other people feeding of their pet, their pets begging for food, and their pets attitude towards food. Treats were used in the absence of owner control over pet begging and emotional attachment, and to influence pet behaviour. The majority of participants had positive attitudes to pet exercise, which could be related to pet specific requirements, especially differences in cats and dogs. There were some negative experiences of stress associated with dog walking and fears over aggressive confrontations with other dogs.ConclusionFeeding one’s pet is influenced by beliefs about pet specific needs, pet food and pet health, pet owners’ perceived control over feeding, and the implications for the pet owner. Pet exercise is influenced by beliefs about pet specific exercise needs, and the implications of exercising one’s pet for the pet owner. Understanding owner behaviours on feeding and exercise allows for a more targeted approach to preventing and treating pet obesity.

Use of the Milan Pet Quality of Life Instrument (MPQL) to Measure Pets’ Quality of Life during COVID-19

“…Evidence indicates that cats communicate their experience of pain mostly through facial expressions [ 65 , 66 ], hiding, and immobility [ 67 ], which may be difficult to interpret for pet owners. On the other hand, cats’ lower scores of social QoL likely represents the owners’ limited engagement in joint activities, such as training or exercise, and lack of interaction with the pet, as cat owners may be prone to believing that cats are self-regulated in terms of exercise and prefer solo over social play [ 68 ].…”

Opinions towards Companion Animals and Their Welfare: A Survey of Croatian Veterinary Students

“…Pet feeding is a typical example referring to both these issues. Many owners feed their pets with inappropriate food and/or excessive amounts of food, thus predisposing obesity as the most common nutritional disorder in dogs and cats [42][43][44], major welfare issue and One Health problem [45,46]. In their report, Kipperman and German [47] argue that it is veterinarian duty and responsibility to address CA obesity.…”

Overweight in Domestic Cats Living in Urban Areas of Italy: Risk Factors for an Emerging Welfare Issue

“…However, cats are generally regarded as sedentary animals, with occasional moments of running and playing. Thus, a minority of cat owners play with their cats, and playing occurs mainly for owner enjoyment and to facilitate social interaction with the cat rather than as a means to foster exercise [ 60 ]. Exercise is a key factor in health for several reasons: it increases the metabolic rate, energy expenditure, fat oxidation and fat loss may assist in lean tissue preservation and strengthen muscle tissues may help prevent the rapid regain in weight that can occur after successful weight loss promotes cardiovascular health provides mental stimulation and improves the overall quality of life [ 61 , 62 ].…”

“…It is proved that feeding management has a crucial role in the occurrence of feline overweight. Downes et al [ 60 ] suggest that offering human food to cats during mealtimes or while food is being prepared is a common habit, and it is considered as being part of the owner-pet relationship. However, in accordance with other studies [ 4 , 60 ], our findings highlight that giving cats extra food is a risk factor for overweight.…”

“…Downes et al [ 60 ] suggest that offering human food to cats during mealtimes or while food is being prepared is a common habit, and it is considered as being part of the owner-pet relationship. However, in accordance with other studies [ 4 , 60 ], our findings highlight that giving cats extra food is a risk factor for overweight. Similarly, food-begging behavior is related to overweight in cats [ 70 ].…”