Assessing the status of pet ownership in the community of Putrajaya

Azjeemah Bee S. H.; Mastura Y.; Debbra M.; Fakhrulisham R.; Shariffah N.; Muhammad Nazri K.; Sharil Azwan M. Z.

Assessing the status of pet ownership in the community of Putrajaya

2019

A cross-sectional survey was administered by using questionnaire in order to understand the status of pet ownership in Putrajaya. A total of 594 eligible respondents participated in this study, with most respondents being located at Precincts 9 and 5. The results indicate that almost half (47%) of the households kept animals as their pets. The majority of pets identified were cats (72%), while the next popular pet was fish (14%). About 61% of pet owners reported that their pets were strays found in the vicinity, 24% obtained as gifts, while 15% purchased by the owners. Of the total pets surveyed, 59% were neutered, 86% were not microchipped and 67% were not vaccinated. Veterinary clinic visits were mainly for pet general health check-ups (47%) followed by vaccination (34%). The frequency of visits were mainly ‘variable’ (36%) and ‘3 months once’ (34%). The monthly household expenses for pets was estimated between RM1 to RM250 (82% of respondents), whereby 46% was spent on pet food and 27% on pet healthcare. As reported by the respondents, the presence and thedisturbance of stray animals were 82% and 68%, respectively. Awareness on the veterinary jurisdiction was poor among the respondents (58% have no knowledge about it). However, 62% claimed awareness about zoonotic diseases. Hence, it is suggested that campaigns and promotions should be held to enhance public awareness and knowledge about the roles and objectives of the local veterinary authorities.

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