Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Behavioral Disorders in Domestic Cats: A Cross- Sectional Survey of Owners in Mashhad, Iran (2020-2022)

The increasing trend of behavioral problems in domestic cats has prompted many researchers to consider ways to reduce them. This cross-sectional study evaluated the prevalence and risk factors of owner-reported behavior problems in domestic cats presented to veterinary clinics in Mashhad, Iran (2020–2022). A standardized questionnaire was completed for 403 cats. Behavior problems were operationally defined at the problem level and included scratching household items, fearfulness, aggression (toward cats, dogs, familiar people, and strangers), inappropriate elimination (urination or defecation outside the litter box), excessive vocalization, excessive activity, repetitive behaviors, and sexual behaviors. Overall, 73.7% (297/403) of cats exhibited at least one behavior problem. The most common problems were scratching household items (36.0%, 145/403), fearfulness (33.3%, 134/403), aggression toward cats (19.6%, 79/403), inappropriate urination (14.9%, 60/403), excessive activity (14.6%, 59/403), and excessive vocalization (11.7%, 47/403). Multivariable logistic regression was used to control for multiple comparisons. Persian breed was associated with inappropriate urination (P = 0.008) and scratching (P = 0.04). Male sex was associated with inappropriate urination (P < 0.001) and sexual behaviors (P = 0.014). Cats acquired from pet stores or shelters showed higher odds of fearfulness compared with cats obtained from breeders or known owners (P < 0.05). Cats adopted after 6 months of age were more likely to show aggression toward familiar people (P = 0.047). Solitary housing was associated with fearfulness and repetitive behaviors (P < 0.05). Behavior problems were common in this population. Identification of modifiable risk factors may assist veterinarians in providing preventive behavioral guidance.