Management of Low Birth Weight in Canine and Feline Species: Breeder Profiling

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Mortality rate in puppies and kittens over the first two months of age is high, estimated at around 20%. Low birth weight has been identified as a major risk factor for neonatal mortality in these species. Using an online questionnaire, we explored perceptions and management practices of breeders regarding newborns at low birth weight. Three different profiles were identified among 649 breeders. The first one included mainly dog and cat breeders who weighed newborns and monitored their suckling by the dam (controlled suckling) but did not warm them. The second group consisted of breeders of both species who did not weigh puppies or kittens to identify low birth weight or to monitor their weight afterwards. The third and final group included mostly cat breeders who routinely weighed neonates as in the first group, but who used artificial feeding rather than controlled suckling. This better knowledge of the management of puppies and kittens at high risk of neonatal mortality in the field provides the basis to establish guidelines to increase their chances of survival. ABSTRACT: Low birth weight (LBW) has been identified as a major risk factor for neonatal mortality in many species. The aim of this survey was to determine the profiles of canine and feline breeders concerning their perceptions of, and management practices relating to, LBW individuals. An anonymous online survey was addressed to French cat and dog breeders in September 2019 via social networks. Multiple correspondence analysis and hierarchical clustering were used to explore breeders’ profiles. Three clusters were identified among the 649 breeders included in this analysis. Cluster 1 (49%) included dog and cat breeders who weighed newborns (and thus identified LBW) and controlled nursing by the dam (controlled suckling) but did not warm them up. Cluster 2 breeders (21%) of both species did not weigh puppies or kittens to identify LBW or to monitor the evolution of their weight afterwards. Cluster 3 (30%) including mostly cat breeders who weighed neonates routinely as in Cluster 1, but they practiced artificial feeding rather than controlled suckling. This survey provides a basis for better understanding of perceptions and practices regarding LBW puppies and kittens. It will be useful to provide guidelines for neonatal management to increase their chances of survival.