Prevalence of 17 feline behavioral problems and relevant factors of each behavior in Japan

Undesirable behaviors exhibited by cats are regarded as feline behavioral problems. Like canine behavioral problems, feline behavioral problems are commonly reported by owners. Thus, in order to advise cat owners appropriately, veterinarians, particularly general veterinary practitioners, are encouraged to have sufficient knowledge of these problems. However, in ordinary Japanese homes, only a small number of feline behavioral problems have been investigated in terms of prevalence and relevant factors. Comprehensive survey data may improve understanding of feline behavioral problems. In the present study, we distributed an online survey including general information and questions about 17 feline behaviors which can be problematic for owners, to investigate: (1) the prevalence of feline behavioral problems, (2) the most common behavioral problems, and (3) relevant factors for each behavior. We collected 1,376 valid responses. Among all cats, 75.7% exhibited at least one behavioral problem. “Pica” and “Showing fear while on the examination table” were the most frequently reported behavioral problems. To identify factors related to the expression of each behavior, we conducted multiple logistic regression analyses, with the presence of behaviors as objective variables and cats’ general information as explanatory variables. Age, sex, breed, number of cats in the household, and type of residence were each associated with more than one behavior. The present study revealed the prevalence of 17 feline behavioral problems in Japanese homes and relevant factors of each behavior. These findings will help veterinarians understand and address feline behavioral problems.