Exploring Dog and Cat Management Practices in Multispecies Households and Their Association with the Pet-Owner Relationship

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate differences and similarities of the pet–owner relationship and management of dogs and cats living in the same household. An online survey was completed by 1270 individuals who owned both dog(s) and cat(s). Most of the respondents owned only one dog (56.4%) but two or more cats (63.1%; p p p p p p p p p p < 0.05) and allowing dogs and cats to sleep in the owners’ bedroom were associated with a stronger perceived pet–owner bond. Implications for cat and dog welfare are discussed.

Keywords

• animal husbandry
• human–animal relationship
• multipet household
• companion animals
• animal welfare
• attachment