Cat caregivers' perceptions, motivations, and behaviours for feeding treats: A cross sectional study.

ABSTRACT: There is an abundance of research focusing on the nutritional needs of the cat, though aspects surrounding treat feeding have received far less attention. Feeding practices have the potential to cause nutrient imbalances and adverse health outcomes, including obesity. The objective of this study was to identify and describe the perceptions, motivations, and behaviours surrounding treats, and factors that influence treat feeding by cat caregivers. A 56-question online survey was disseminated to cat caregivers (n = 337) predominantly from Canada and the USA to collect data regarding caregiver and cat demographics, the pet-caregiver relationship, perceptions surrounding treats, and feeding practices and behaviours. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA, Wilcox

SUBMITTER: Nielson SA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10781132 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature