Perception and utilisation of veterinary services by rodent owners in the United Kingdom.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There is limited research on how rodent owners use and perceive veterinary services and what the demand for pet insurance for these species is.

Methods

An online survey of owners of pet rodents (guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, gerbils and mice) measured owner confidence in recognising signs of illness, their opinions on and use of veterinary services and their willingness to purchase pet insurance.

Results

A total of 1700 respondents completed the survey. Rat owners had increased confidence in recognising signs of illness, as did owners who acquired their pet from a breeder or rescue centre. Most respondents had used veterinary services, with owners perceiving exotics specialists to have increased knowledge. Economic challenges with accessing veterinary care w

SUBMITTER: James L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12007489 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature