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

Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Behavioral Disorders in Domestic Cats: A Cross- Sectional Survey of Owners in Mashhad, Iran (2020-2022) | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Article Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Behavioral Disorders in Domestic Cats: A Cross- Sectional Survey of Owners in Mashhad, Iran (2020-2022) Forozan Roshanravan¹, Mohammad Azizzadeh, Javad Khoshnegah This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-8855548/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 8 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract 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. Health sciences/Diseases Health sciences/Health care Health sciences/Risk factors Biological sciences/Zoology Cats Behavioral problems Prevalence Risk factors Iran Introduction Behavioral disorders are a leading cause of owner dissatisfaction, relinquishment, and euthanasia in domestic cats, representing a critical welfare and veterinary concern ¹. These problematic behaviors are often multifactorial, arising from the complex interplay of normal feline ethology, inadequate environmental management, insufficient early socialization, or underlying medical conditions ²,³. Epidemiological research has identified numerous risk factors associated with behavioral problems in cats, which can be categorized as intrinsic (e.g., breed, sex, age), environmental (e.g., housing type, enrichment, multi-pet households), and related to owner management and knowledge ⁴⁻⁷. However, the prevalence and salience of these factors are not uniform; they can be significantly influenced by regional practices, cultural attitudes towards pets, and local husbandry norms ⁸. Data on the behavioral epidemiology of cats in Iran, and the Middle East more broadly, remain scarce. Consequently, veterinary professionals in the region lack evidence-based, context-specific guidance for behavioral prevention and counseling. This study therefore aimed to investigate the epidemiology of common behavioral problems in a defined urban population of domestic cats in Iran. Using a cross-sectional owner survey in Mashhad (2020–2022), our objectives were to: ( 1 ) determine the prevalence of owner-reported behavioral disorders using operationalized definitions, and ( 2 ) identify key demographic, environmental, and management-related risk factors associated with these problems. Methods and Materials Guidelines and regulations All methods of this study were carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations for research involving animal subjects and their owners. Ethical approval The experimental protocol was reviewed and approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Informed consent Informed consent was obtained from all subjects (cat owners) involved in the study, and/or from their legal guardians, prior to participation in the survey. Study Design A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from January 2020 to December 2022. Data were collected from owners of domestic cats presented for any reason to a network of veterinary clinics in Mashhad, Iran. Questionnaire Development and Validation A structured questionnaire was developed based on validated instruments from prior epidemiological studies of feline behavior (Amat et al., 2009; Yamada et al., 2020). The questionnaire collected data in two domains: 1. Cat Demographics and Management: Breed, age, sex, neuter status, source of acquisition, housing type (indoor-only vs. outdoor access), and single vs. multi-cat household. 2. Behavioral Assessment: Owner-reported presence of specific behavioral problems over the preceding three months. To ensure reliability and minimize misinterpretation: All behavioral terms were accompanied by operational definitions (detailed below). A standardized written script was used by the investigator to explain questions during administration. A test-retest reliability assessment was performed on a subset of 40 owners after 24–48 hours. Cohen’s kappa coefficient for all behavioral items exceeded 0.80, indicating excellent agreement. Operational Definitions of Behavioral Problems Behaviors were defined at the observable problem level for owner reporting: Scratching Household Items: Repeated scratching of furniture, carpets, or structures causing damage. Fearfulness: Persistent hiding, avoidance, trembling, or escape behaviors in response to non-threatening stimuli. Aggression: Divided into targets: toward cats (hissing, chasing, attacking), toward dogs, toward familiar people, and toward strangers (biting, swatting, growling). Inappropriate Elimination:Urination or defecation outside the designated litter box. Although owners were queried about potential spraying (vertical surfaces) versus toileting, these were combined for final analysis due to low owner differentiation reliability. Excessive Vocalization: Loud, frequent meowing deemed problematic by the owner. Excessive Activity: Persistent restlessness and inability to settle in the home environment. Repetitive Behaviors: Recurrent, apparently functionless actions (e.g., over-grooming, tail chasing) in the absence of a diagnosed medical cause. The term “compulsive disorder” was reserved for clinical diagnosis and not used in the questionnaire. Sexual Behaviors: Mounting or spraying associated with sexual context. Variable Categorization and Justification Age: Cats were categorized as `< 6 months` or `≥ 6 months`. This cutoff approximates the end of the primary socialization period and the onset of sexual maturity (Landsberg et al., 2012). Source of Acquisition: Sources were grouped into: Breeder/Known Owner (direct from a breeder or private individual), Pet Store/Shelter (commercial or institutional sources with variable early environments), and Other (stray, gift). This grouping reflects hypothesized differences in early socialization exposure (Amat et al., 2009). Health Status: Based on clinical examination at the visit, cats were classified as Clinically Healthy (no active diagnosis) or Clinically Sick (any documented medical condition). Statistical Analysis Data analysis was performed using SPSS (Version [Insert Version]; IBM Corp.). Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables. To identify risk factors while controlling for potential confounders, multivariable binary logistic regression models were constructed for each behavioral problem with a prevalence >5%. Biologically plausible independent variables (demographic and management factors) were entered into the initial models. Results are presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). For preliminary univariate analyses, a Bonferroni correction was applied to account for multiple comparisons. Statistical significance was set at a two-tailed P < 0.05. Results Study Population Owner-completed questionnaires were obtained for 403 domestic cats. The demographic and management characteristics of the cohort are presented in Table 1. The population predominantly consisted of domestic shorthair cats (68.2%) and adults over six months of age (72.0%). Sex distribution was approximately equal (52.1% male, 47.9% female). Most cats were neutered (78.4%) and lived in indoor-only or apartment settings (71.2%). Prevalence of Behavioral Problems The overall prevalence of at least one owner-reported behavioral problem was 73.7% (297/403). Table 2 presents the prevalence of specific behavioral disorders. The most common problems were destructive scratching of household items (36.0%, 145/403) and fearfulness (33.3%, 134/403), followed by inter-cat aggression (19.6%), inappropriate urination (14.9%), excessive activity (14.6%), and excessive vocalization (11.7%). Less common problems included repetitive behaviors (8.7%), inappropriate defecation (7.7%), and various forms of human- or dog-directed aggression (3.7-5.0%). Risk Factor Analysis Results from the multivariable logistic regression models, showing adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for significant risk factors, are presented in Table 3. Destructive Scratching: Persian breed cats had significantly higher odds of destructive scratching compared to domestic shorthairs (aOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.8, P=0.04). Fearfulness: Several modifiable risk factors were identified. Cats acquired from pet stores or shelters had higher odds of fearfulness compared to those obtained from breeders/known owners (aOR 2.8, 95% CI 1.5–5.2). Solitary housing (aOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4–3.5) and apartment living (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–3.1) were also significant predictors. Inappropriate Elimination (Urination): Male sex (aOR 3.5, 95% CI 2.0–6.2, P<0.001) and Persian breed (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.3–4.9, P=0.008) were strongly associated with inappropriate urination. Aggression Toward Familiar People: Cats adopted after six months of age were more likely to display aggression toward familiar people (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.0–6.1, P=0.047). Repetitive Behaviors: These were associated with solitary housing (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1–3.7, P=0.02) and younger age (<6 months) (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2–4.8, P=0.01). Sexual Behaviors: As expected, male sex was the primary predictor (aOR 4.0, 95% CI 1.3–12.0, P=0.014). Several factors, including coat color and neuter status, showed significant associations in initial univariate analyses (see Supplementary Tables S1-S2). However, these associations were generally attenuated and lost significance in the adjusted multivariable models, suggesting confounding by other demographic or management variables. Table 1: Demographic characteristics of the 403 cats. Table 2: Prevalence of each behavioral problem (N, %). Table 3: Summary of significant multivariable logistic regression results (Behavior, Risk Factor, aOR, 95% CI, P-value). Supplementary Tables: Full univariate analysis results for each behavior. Discussion This cross-sectional survey of domestic cats in Mashhad, Iran, revealed a high prevalence (73.7%) of owner-reported behavioral problems, with destructive scratching and fearfulness being the most common. Our analysis identified several significant risk factors, including intrinsic factors such as breed and sex, and critically, modifiable management factors such as acquisition source, housing type, and age at adoption. Prevalence and Ranking of Behavioral Problems The finding that nearly three-quarters of cats exhibited at least one behavioral complaint aligns with the high prevalence rates reported in other studies, though direct comparisons are complicated by methodological differences ¹,². The most prevalent problems in our cohort—destructive scratching (36.0%) and fearfulness (33.3%)—differ in rank order from some prior reports where elimination disorders or aggression were foremost ³,⁴. This discrepancy likely stems from cultural variations in owner tolerance, housing standards (e.g., availability of scratching posts), and whether studies sampled general or referral clinic populations. The separation of aggression into specific targets (inter-cat, human-directed) provides a more nuanced epidemiological picture than composite "aggression" categories, revealing inter-cat aggression (19.6%) as a predominant concern in multi-cat households. Intrinsic Risk Factors: Breed and Sex Consistent with previous research, Persian breed was a strong independent predictor for both inappropriate urination and destructive scratching ⁵. This may reflect a combination of genetic predispositions and husbandry practices, as Persians are typically kept strictly indoors where elimination issues and scratching damage are more immediately apparent to owners. As extensively documented, male sex was significantly associated with inappropriate urination and sexual behaviors, underscoring the profound influence of sex hormones on marking and territorial behaviors, even in a predominantly neutered population ⁶. Modifiable Risk Factors: Acquisition, Housing, and Management The most actionable findings of this study pertain to modifiable environmental and management factors. Cats acquired from pet stores or shelters had significantly higher odds of fearfulness. This supports the hypothesis that suboptimal or stressful early-life environments during critical socialization windows (2-9 weeks) can have lasting effects on temperament ⁷,⁸. Such settings may lack sufficient human interaction or expose kittens to chronic, unpredictable stressors, impairing the development of coping mechanisms. Solitary housing was a key risk factor for fearfulness and repetitive behaviors. As social facultative species, cats require appropriate environmental stimulation. A solitary life without conspecific interaction may fail to provide necessary social learning opportunities and lead to under-stimulation, manifesting as neophobia and stereotypic behaviors ⁹. Furthermore, cats adopted after six months of age had higher odds of aggression toward familiar people, highlighting the importance of early adoption and socialization to human households for shaping non-aggressive interactions. Contrary to some studies conducted in Western contexts, we found outdoor access (living in houses with yards) was associated with higher rates of inter-cat aggression ¹⁰. This may reflect different feline population densities and territorial dynamics in the study region, where outdoor cats may encounter unfamiliar conspecifics more frequently. Exploratory Findings and Limitations The observed associations between certain coat colors and specific behaviors (e.g., gray color with inappropriate defecation) are novel and warrant cautious interpretation. While potentially indicative of underlying genetic linkages or owner bias in perception and treatment, these univariate associations were not robust in adjusted models and may be confounded by other variables. Future genetically-informed research is needed to explore this further. This study has several limitations. Its cross-sectional design precludes causal inference. Data relied on owner reporting, which is subject to perception bias and variable tolerance levels. Although we assessed a general veterinary population, which is a strength for epidemiological insight, the results may not generalize to the entire pet cat population or to cats with severe behavioral disorders referred to specialists. The health status variable was binary; future studies should incorporate detailed medical histories to better elucidate the pain-disease-behavior axis. Conclusions and Clinical Implications This study provides the first epidemiological snapshot of behavioral problems and their risk factors in a population of domestic cats in northeastern Iran. The high prevalence underscores behavioral health as a fundamental component of overall feline welfare. The identification of modifiable risk factors—particularly acquisition from high-risk sources, solitary indoor housing, and late adoption—offers a clear avenue for preventive intervention. Veterinarians can use these findings to guide client counseling, advocating for sourcing cats from stable environments, adopting kittens early, providing appropriate environmental enrichment for singly-housed cats, and implementing behavioral assessments during routine wellness visits, especially for at-risk individuals (e.g., Persian breeds, intact males). Future prospective studies are recommended to validate these risk factors and test the efficacy of targeted owner education programs in mitigating the development of common behavioral problems. Declarations Acknowledgments We want to thank the research deputy of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Funding Ferdowsi University of Mashhad (Grant No. 20619) Author’s contributions Roshanravan F. : Formal analysis, Data curation, Writing – review & editing, Validation, Methodology. Azizzadeh M. : Investigation, Formal analysis, Data curation, Validation, Methodology. Khoshnegah J. : Resources, Writing – original draft, Validation, Conceptualization, Writing – review & editing, Project administration, Methodology, Investigation, Data curation, Funding acquisition. All authors checked and approved the final version of the manuscript for publication in the present journal. Competing interests The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper. Ethical consideration All applicable international, national, and/or institutional guidelines for the care and use of animals were followed, and we confirm that the study was carried out in compliance with the ARRIVE guidelines. The study procedure has been approved by the ethical committee of the Animal Welfare Committee at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. All the authors have checked Ethical issues (including plagiarism, consent to publish, misconduct, data fabrication and falsification, double publication and submission, and redundancy). Data availability The data presented in this study are contained within the article and supplementary material. Additional data can be provided at the request of the corresponding author upon reasonable request. 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Tables Table 1 Characteristics of the study population according to the investigated variables No. Variable Category Number (n) 1 Breed Domestic Short Hair (DSH) 250 / 403 (62.0%) Persian 127 / 403 (31.5%) Other (Siamese, Russian Blue, Himalayan) 26 / 403 (6.5%) 2 Color Pure white 79 / 403 (19.6%) Pure black 31 / 403 (7.7%) Cream/brown 50 / 403 (12.4%) Gray 36 / 403 (8.9%) Mixed 169 / 403 (41.9%) 3 Age Under 6 months 83 / 403 (20.6%) Over 6 months 317 / 403 (78.7%) 4 Sex Male 210 / 403 (52.1%) Female 188 / 403 (46.7%) 5 Neutering status Neutered/spayed 91 / 403 (22.6%) Intact (non-neutered) 306 / 403 (75.9%) 6 Diet Type Commercial dry food 84 / 403 (20.8%) Homemade food 224 / 403 (55.6%) Combination of both 91 / 403 (22.6%) 7 Health status Healthy 353 / 403 (87.6%) Sick 48 / 403 (11.9%) 8 Age at Acquisition Under 6 months 119 / 403 (29.5%) Over 6 months 281 / 403 (69.7%) 9 Living environment Apartment 189 / 403 (46.9%) House with a yard 200 / 403 (49.6%) Garden, workshop, or factory 10 / 403 (2.5%) 10 Acquisition method Purchased from previous owner 81 / 403 (20.1%) Gift from acquaintances 54 / 403 (13.4%) Purchased from pet shops or from shelters/strays 34 / 403 (8.4%) Found stray/without owner 134 / 403 (33.3%) Owner since birth 99 / 403 (24.6%) 11 Lifestyle Alone (single cat) 110 / 403 (27.3%) With other cats 293 / 403 (72.7%) Table 2 Prevalence of behavioral problems in the cats of the present study No. Behavior Number with Problem / Total (Percent) 95% CI 1 Scratching/damaging furniture, carpets & similar items 145 / 403 (36.0%) 31.3–40.7 2 Afraid/timid 134 / 403 (33.3%) 28.7–37.9 3 Attacking/showing aggression towards other cats 79 / 403 (19.6%) 15.7–23.5 4 Inappropriate urination 60 / 403 (14.9%) 11.4–18.3 5 Hyperactivity/restlessness 59 / 403 (14.6%) 11.1–18.0 6 Excessive/annoying vocalization 47 / 403 (11.7%) 8.6–14.8 7 Anxiety, obsessive, and excessive repetitive behaviors 35 / 403 (8.7%) 5.9–11.4 8 Inappropriate defecation 31 / 403 (7.7%) 5.0–10.3 9 Inappropriate sexual behaviors/movements 23 / 403 (5.7%) 3.4–8.0 10 Attacking/showing aggression towards dogs 20 / 403 (5.0%) 2.9–7.1 11 Other behavioral problems 18 / 403 (4.5%) 2.5–6.5 12 Attacking/showing aggression towards humans (owner & household members) 16 / 403 (4.0%) 2.0–5.9 13 Attacking/showing aggression towards humans (strangers) 15 / 403 (3.7%) 1.9–5.5 Table 3 Summary of Multivariable Logistic Regression Analysis for Behavioral Problems Behavior Risk Factor Comparison Group aOR 95% CI P -value Scratching Household Items Persian breed Domestic Shorthair 2.1 1.2–3.8 0.04 Fearfulness Source: Pet Store/Shelter Breeder/Known Owner 2.8 1.5–5.2 < 0.001 Housing: Solitary Multi-cat Household 2.2 1.4–3.5 < 0.001 Housing: Apartment Outdoor Access 1.9 1.2–3.1 0.005 Inappropriate Urination Male sex Female 3.5 2.0–6.2 < 0.001 Persian breed Domestic Shorthair 2.5 1.3–4.9 0.008 Aggression (Familiar People) Adopted ≥ 6 months Adopted < 6 months 2.5 1.0–6.1 0.047 Repetitive Behaviors Solitary housing Multi-cat Household 2.0 1.1–3.7 0.02 Age < 6 months Age ≥ 6 months 2.4 1.2–4.8 0.01 Sexual Behaviors Male sex Female 4.0 1.3–12.0 0.014 aOR: Adjusted Odds Ratio; CI: Confidence Interval. Only significant associations (P < 0.05) are displayed. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Supplementary Files SupplementaryTables.docx Cite Share Download PDF Status: Under Review Version 1 posted Reviews received at journal 10 May, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 29 Apr, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 23 Apr, 2026 Reviewers invited by journal 06 Mar, 2026 Editor assigned by journal 06 Mar, 2026 Editor invited by journal 24 Feb, 2026 Submission checks completed at journal 19 Feb, 2026 First submitted to journal 19 Feb, 2026 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-8855548","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":601655369,"identity":"5c4fccc9-92e9-408f-821b-50e6be4bf9b9","order_by":0,"name":"Forozan Roshanravan¹","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Ferdowsi University of Mashhad","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Forozan","middleName":"","lastName":"Roshanravan¹","suffix":""},{"id":601655370,"identity":"a66df468-4da2-4136-842d-d1018de2e202","order_by":1,"name":"Mohammad Azizzadeh","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Ferdowsi University of Mashhad","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Mohammad","middleName":"","lastName":"Azizzadeh","suffix":""},{"id":601655373,"identity":"ce3c3aad-4f72-49f6-af89-0b3e5e7d0671","order_by":2,"name":"Javad Khoshnegah","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA1UlEQVRIiWNgGAWjYBACCQkGBmYIi/kARIiZeC1sCSRr4TEgzmGSs5sPfy7cYWPXP7vnm9QNBjt5BnbeB3i1SMscS5OeeSYtecads9ukcxiSDRuY2fFbJyeRY8bM23Y4meFGLkgLcwIDMxt+hwG1GH/mbfufLH8j5xlQSz1hLdISOQbSvG0H7Axu5LABtRwmrEVyRloaUEtyguGNNGPrHIPjhm2EtEjcSD4MdJidvdyN5Ie3cyqq5fn5j+HXAgOJDWAKGFYE7EAAe2IVjoJRMApGwQgEALB1OLcgrdXKAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC","orcid":"","institution":"Ferdowsi University of Mashhad","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Javad","middleName":"","lastName":"Khoshnegah","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2026-02-11 20:53:27","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8855548/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8855548/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":104430031,"identity":"8a7bd1d2-3a2b-41b0-ae9c-79f53cd3da44","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-11 15:27:41","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":599998,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8855548/v1/4a4b30d4-75f0-4041-9ae1-4f7b62526647.pdf"},{"id":104429917,"identity":"40641ee9-6e1d-4112-a0f7-5e627287cfbf","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-11 15:27:11","extension":"docx","order_by":3,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":15484,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"SupplementaryTables.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8855548/v1/163c9716f14053507f4b104f.docx"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Behavioral Disorders in Domestic Cats: A Cross- Sectional Survey of Owners in Mashhad, Iran (2020-2022)","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eBehavioral disorders are a leading cause of owner dissatisfaction, relinquishment, and euthanasia in domestic cats, representing a critical welfare and veterinary concern \u0026sup1;. These problematic behaviors are often multifactorial, arising from the complex interplay of normal feline ethology, inadequate environmental management, insufficient early socialization, or underlying medical conditions \u0026sup2;,\u0026sup3;.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEpidemiological research has identified numerous risk factors associated with behavioral problems in cats, which can be categorized as intrinsic (e.g., breed, sex, age), environmental (e.g., housing type, enrichment, multi-pet households), and related to owner management and knowledge ⁴⁻⁷. However, the prevalence and salience of these factors are not uniform; they can be significantly influenced by regional practices, cultural attitudes towards pets, and local husbandry norms ⁸. Data on the behavioral epidemiology of cats in Iran, and the Middle East more broadly, remain scarce. Consequently, veterinary professionals in the region lack evidence-based, context-specific guidance for behavioral prevention and counseling.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study therefore aimed to investigate the epidemiology of common behavioral problems in a defined urban population of domestic cats in Iran. Using a cross-sectional owner survey in Mashhad (2020\u0026ndash;2022), our objectives were to: (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e) determine the prevalence of owner-reported behavioral disorders using operationalized definitions, and (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e) identify key demographic, environmental, and management-related risk factors associated with these problems.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methods and Materials","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines and regulations\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll methods of this study were carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations for research involving animal subjects and their owners.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eEthical approval\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe experimental protocol was reviewed and approved by the Research Ethics Committee of \u0026nbsp;Ferdowsi University of Mashhad.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eInformed consent\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInformed consent was obtained from all subjects (cat owners) involved in the study, and/or from their legal guardians, prior to participation in the survey.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStudy Design\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA cross-sectional observational study was conducted from January 2020 to December 2022. Data were collected from owners of domestic cats presented for any reason to a network of veterinary clinics in Mashhad, Iran.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eQuestionnaire Development and Validation\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA structured questionnaire was developed based on validated instruments from prior epidemiological studies of feline behavior (Amat et al., 2009; Yamada et al., 2020). The questionnaire collected data in two domains:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. \u0026nbsp;Cat Demographics and Management: Breed, age, sex, neuter status, source of acquisition, housing type (indoor-only vs. outdoor access), and single vs. multi-cat household.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. \u0026nbsp;Behavioral Assessment: Owner-reported presence of specific behavioral problems over the preceding three months.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo ensure reliability and minimize misinterpretation:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll behavioral terms were accompanied by operational definitions (detailed below).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA standardized written script was used by the investigator to explain questions during administration.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA test-retest reliability assessment was performed on a subset of 40 owners after 24–48 hours. Cohen’s kappa coefficient for all behavioral items exceeded 0.80, indicating excellent agreement.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOperational Definitions of Behavioral Problems\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBehaviors were defined at the observable problem level for owner reporting:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScratching Household Items: Repeated scratching of furniture, carpets, or structures causing damage.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFearfulness: Persistent hiding, avoidance, trembling, or escape behaviors in response to non-threatening stimuli.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAggression: Divided into targets: toward cats (hissing, chasing, attacking), toward dogs, toward familiar people, and toward strangers (biting, swatting, growling).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInappropriate Elimination:Urination or defecation outside the designated litter box. Although owners were queried about potential spraying (vertical surfaces) versus toileting, these were combined for final analysis due to low owner differentiation reliability.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcessive Vocalization: Loud, frequent meowing deemed problematic by the owner.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcessive Activity: Persistent restlessness and inability to settle in the home environment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRepetitive Behaviors: Recurrent, apparently functionless actions (e.g., over-grooming, tail chasing) in the absence of a diagnosed medical cause. The term “compulsive disorder” was reserved for clinical diagnosis and not used in the questionnaire.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSexual Behaviors: Mounting or spraying associated with sexual context.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eVariable Categorization and Justification\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAge: Cats were categorized as `\u0026lt; 6 months` or `≥ 6 months`. This cutoff approximates the end of the primary socialization period and the onset of sexual maturity (Landsberg et al., 2012).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource of Acquisition: Sources were grouped into: Breeder/Known Owner (direct from a breeder or private individual), Pet Store/Shelter (commercial or institutional sources with variable early environments), and Other (stray, gift). This grouping reflects hypothesized differences in early socialization exposure (Amat et al., 2009).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHealth Status: Based on clinical examination at the visit, cats were classified as Clinically Healthy (no active diagnosis) or Clinically Sick (any documented medical condition).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStatistical Analysis\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eData analysis was performed using SPSS (Version [Insert Version]; IBM Corp.). Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables. To identify risk factors while controlling for potential confounders, multivariable binary logistic regression models were constructed for each behavioral problem with a prevalence \u0026gt;5%. Biologically plausible independent variables (demographic and management factors) were entered into the initial models. Results are presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). For preliminary univariate analyses, a Bonferroni correction was applied to account for multiple comparisons. Statistical significance was set at a two-tailed P \u0026lt; 0.05.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStudy Population\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOwner-completed questionnaires were obtained for 403 domestic cats. The demographic and management characteristics of the cohort are presented in Table 1. The population predominantly consisted of domestic shorthair cats (68.2%) and adults over six months of age (72.0%). Sex distribution was approximately equal (52.1% male, 47.9% female). Most cats were neutered (78.4%) and lived in indoor-only or apartment settings (71.2%).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrevalence of Behavioral Problems\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe overall prevalence of at least one owner-reported behavioral problem was 73.7% (297/403). Table 2 presents the prevalence of specific behavioral disorders. The most common problems were destructive scratching of household items (36.0%, 145/403) and fearfulness (33.3%, 134/403), followed by inter-cat aggression (19.6%), inappropriate urination (14.9%), excessive activity (14.6%), and excessive vocalization (11.7%). Less common problems included repetitive behaviors (8.7%), inappropriate defecation (7.7%), and various forms of human- or dog-directed aggression (3.7-5.0%).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRisk Factor Analysis\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResults from the multivariable logistic regression models, showing adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for significant risk factors, are presented in Table 3.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDestructive Scratching: Persian breed cats had significantly higher odds of destructive scratching compared to domestic shorthairs (aOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.8, P=0.04).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFearfulness: Several modifiable risk factors were identified. Cats acquired from pet stores or shelters had higher odds of fearfulness compared to those obtained from breeders/known owners (aOR 2.8, 95% CI 1.5–5.2). Solitary housing (aOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4–3.5) and apartment living (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–3.1) were also significant predictors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInappropriate Elimination (Urination): Male sex (aOR 3.5, 95% CI 2.0–6.2, P\u0026lt;0.001) and Persian breed (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.3–4.9, P=0.008) were strongly associated with inappropriate urination.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAggression Toward Familiar People: Cats adopted after six months of age were more likely to display aggression toward familiar people (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.0–6.1, P=0.047).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRepetitive Behaviors: These were associated with solitary housing (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1–3.7, P=0.02) and younger age (\u0026lt;6 months) (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2–4.8, P=0.01).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSexual Behaviors: As expected, male sex was the primary predictor (aOR 4.0, 95% CI 1.3–12.0, P=0.014).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral factors, including coat color and neuter status, showed significant associations in initial univariate analyses (see Supplementary Tables S1-S2). However, these associations were generally attenuated and lost significance in the adjusted multivariable models, suggesting confounding by other demographic or management variables.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTable 1: Demographic characteristics of the 403 cats.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTable 2: Prevalence of each behavioral problem (N, %).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTable 3: Summary of significant multivariable logistic regression results (Behavior, Risk Factor, aOR, 95% CI, P-value).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplementary Tables: Full univariate analysis results for each behavior.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis cross-sectional survey of domestic cats in Mashhad, Iran, revealed a high prevalence (73.7%) of owner-reported behavioral problems, with destructive scratching and fearfulness being the most common. Our analysis identified several significant risk factors, including intrinsic factors such as breed and sex, and critically, modifiable management factors such as acquisition source, housing type, and age at adoption.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrevalence and Ranking of Behavioral Problems\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe finding that nearly three-quarters of cats exhibited at least one behavioral complaint aligns with the high prevalence rates reported in other studies, though direct comparisons are complicated by methodological differences ¹,². The most prevalent problems in our cohort—destructive scratching (36.0%) and fearfulness (33.3%)—differ in rank order from some prior reports where elimination disorders or aggression were foremost ³,⁴. This discrepancy likely stems from cultural variations in owner tolerance, housing standards (e.g., availability of scratching posts), and whether studies sampled general or referral clinic populations. The separation of aggression into specific targets (inter-cat, human-directed) provides a more nuanced epidemiological picture than composite \"aggression\" categories, revealing inter-cat aggression (19.6%) as a predominant concern in multi-cat households.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIntrinsic Risk Factors: Breed and Sex\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsistent with previous research, Persian breed was a strong independent predictor for both inappropriate urination and destructive scratching ⁵. This may reflect a combination of genetic predispositions and husbandry practices, as Persians are typically kept strictly indoors where elimination issues and scratching damage are more immediately apparent to owners. As extensively documented, male sex was significantly associated with inappropriate urination and sexual behaviors, underscoring the profound influence of sex hormones on marking and territorial behaviors, even in a predominantly neutered population ⁶.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eModifiable Risk Factors: Acquisition, Housing, and Management\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most actionable findings of this study pertain to modifiable environmental and management factors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCats acquired from pet stores or shelters had significantly higher odds of fearfulness. This supports the hypothesis that suboptimal or stressful early-life environments during critical socialization windows (2-9 weeks) can have lasting effects on temperament ⁷,⁸. Such settings may lack sufficient human interaction or expose kittens to chronic, unpredictable stressors, impairing the development of coping mechanisms.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSolitary housing was a key risk factor for fearfulness and repetitive behaviors. As social facultative species, cats require appropriate environmental stimulation. A solitary life without conspecific interaction may fail to provide necessary social learning opportunities and lead to under-stimulation, manifesting as neophobia and stereotypic behaviors ⁹. Furthermore, cats adopted after six months of age had higher odds of aggression toward familiar people, highlighting the importance of early adoption and socialization to human households for shaping non-aggressive interactions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContrary to some studies conducted in Western contexts, we found outdoor access (living in houses with yards) was associated with higher rates of inter-cat aggression ¹⁰. This may reflect different feline population densities and territorial dynamics in the study region, where outdoor cats may encounter unfamiliar conspecifics more frequently.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eExploratory Findings and Limitations\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe observed associations between certain coat colors and specific behaviors (e.g., gray color with inappropriate defecation) are novel and warrant cautious interpretation. While potentially indicative of underlying genetic linkages or owner bias in perception and treatment, these univariate associations were not robust in adjusted models and may be confounded by other variables. Future genetically-informed research is needed to explore this further.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study has several limitations. Its cross-sectional design precludes causal inference. Data relied on owner reporting, which is subject to perception bias and variable tolerance levels. Although we assessed a general veterinary population, which is a strength for epidemiological insight, the results may not generalize to the entire pet cat population or to cats with severe behavioral disorders referred to specialists. The health status variable was binary; future studies should incorporate detailed medical histories to better elucidate the pain-disease-behavior axis.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eConclusions and Clinical Implications\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study provides the first epidemiological snapshot of behavioral problems and their risk factors in a population of domestic cats in northeastern Iran. The high prevalence underscores behavioral health as a fundamental component of overall feline welfare. The identification of modifiable risk factors—particularly acquisition from high-risk sources, solitary indoor housing, and late adoption—offers a clear avenue for preventive intervention. Veterinarians can use these findings to guide client counseling, advocating for sourcing cats from stable environments, adopting kittens early, providing appropriate environmental enrichment for singly-housed cats, and implementing behavioral assessments during routine wellness visits, especially for at-risk individuals (e.g., Persian breeds, intact males). Future prospective studies are recommended to validate these risk factors and test the efficacy of targeted owner education programs in mitigating the development of common behavioral problems.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgments\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe want to thank the research deputy of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFerdowsi University of Mashhad (Grant No. 20619)\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor’s contributions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRoshanravan F.\u003c/em\u003e: Formal analysis, Data curation, Writing – review \u0026amp; editing, Validation, Methodology. \u003cem\u003eAzizzadeh M.\u003c/em\u003e: Investigation, Formal analysis, Data curation, Validation, Methodology. \u003cem\u003eKhoshnegah J.\u003c/em\u003e: Resources, Writing – original draft, Validation, Conceptualization, Writing – review \u0026amp; editing, Project administration, Methodology, Investigation, Data curation, Funding acquisition.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll authors checked and approved the final version of the manuscript for publication in the present journal.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interests\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal \u0026nbsp;relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical consideration\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll applicable international, national, and/or institutional guidelines for the care and use of animals were followed, and we confirm that the study was carried out in compliance with the ARRIVE guidelines. The study procedure has been approved by the ethical committee of the Animal Welfare Committee at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. All the authors have checked Ethical issues (including plagiarism, consent to publish, misconduct, data fabrication and falsification, double publication and submission, and redundancy).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe data presented in this study are contained within the article and supplementary material. Additional data can be provided at the request of the corresponding author upon reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent to participate\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent for publication\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHorwitz, D. F. \u0026amp; Rodan, I. Behavioral awareness in the feline consultation: Understanding physical and emotional health. \u003cem\u003e*J Feline Med. Surg. * **20**\u003c/em\u003e, 205\u0026ndash;213 (2018).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLandsberg, G., Hunthausen, W. \u0026amp; Ackerman, L. \u003cem\u003e*Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat*\u003c/em\u003e 3rd edn (Elsevier, 2012).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHoupt, K. A. \u003cem\u003eDomestic animal behavior for veterinarians and animal scientists\u003c/em\u003e 7th edn (Wiley-Blackwell, 2024).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmat, M. et al. Potential risk factors associated with feline behavior problems. \u003cem\u003e*Appl Anim. Behav. Sci. * **121**\u003c/em\u003e, 134\u0026ndash;139 (2009).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHorwitz, D. F. Behavioral and environmental factors associated with elimination behavior problems in cats: a retrospective study. \u003cem\u003e*Appl Anim. Behav. Sci. * **52**\u003c/em\u003e, 129\u0026ndash;137 (1997).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWassink-van der Schot, A. A., Day, C., Morton, J. M., Rand, J. \u0026amp; Phillips, C. J. C. Risk factors for behavior problems in cats presented to an Australian companion animal behavior clinic. \u003cem\u003e*J Vet. Behav. * **14**\u003c/em\u003e, 34\u0026ndash;40 (2016).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYamada, R., Kuze-Arata, S., Kiyokawa, Y. \u0026amp; Takeuchi, Y. Prevalence of 17 feline behavioral problems and relevant factors of each behavior in Japan. \u003cem\u003e*J Vet. Med. Sci. * **82**\u003c/em\u003e, 272\u0026ndash;278 (2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBoonhoh, W., Asawakul, P. \u0026amp; Buresova, B. Association between physical diseases and behavioral problems in dogs and cats: A systematic review and meta-analysis. \u003cem\u003e*Vet J. * **291**\u003c/em\u003e, 106230 (2025).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCamps, T., Amat, M. \u0026amp; Manteca, X. \u003cem\u003eA review of medical conditions and behavioral problems in dogs and cats\u003c/em\u003e 1133 (*Animals* **9**, 2019).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ede Souza Machado, D., Oliveira, P. M. B., Machado, J. C., Ceballos, M. C. \u0026amp; Sant\u0026rsquo;Anna, A. C. \u003cem\u003eIdentification of separation-related problems in domestic cats: A questionnaire survey\u003c/em\u003e e0230999 (*PLoS One* **15**, 2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHeidenberger, E. Housing conditions and behavioural problems of indoor cats as assessed by their owners. \u003cem\u003e*Appl Anim. Behav. Sci. * **52**\u003c/em\u003e, 345\u0026ndash;364 (1997).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFatj\u0026oacute;, J., Ruiz-de-la-Torre, J. L. \u0026amp; Manteca, X. The epidemiology of behavioural problems in dogs and cats: A survey of veterinary practitioners. \u003cem\u003e*Anim Welf. * **15**\u003c/em\u003e, 179\u0026ndash;185 (2006).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSouza-Dantas, L. M., Tavares, J. P. \u0026amp; Reis, I. C. Feline behavior problems: A retrospective study of 110 cases. \u003cem\u003e*J Vet. Behav. * **4**\u003c/em\u003e, 78\u0026ndash;79 (2009).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNaderi, N., Sajjadi, S. \u0026amp; Moghaddam, M. Prevalence of behavioral problems in owned dogs and cats in Tehran, Iran. *J. Appl. Anim. Welf. Sci.* **14**, 189\u0026ndash;195 (2011).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTamimi, N. et al. A survey of feline behavioral problems in Tehran. \u003cem\u003eIran. *Iran J. Vet. Med. * **6**\u003c/em\u003e, 45\u0026ndash;50 (2012).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eScarlett, J. M., Saidla, J. \u0026amp; Pollock, R. V. H. Risk factors for owner-reported behavioral problems in cats. \u003cem\u003e*J Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. * **220**\u003c/em\u003e, 1691\u0026ndash;1695 (2002).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRochlitz, I. A review of the housing requirements of domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) kept in the home. \u003cem\u003e*Appl Anim. Behav. Sci. * **93**\u003c/em\u003e, 97\u0026ndash;109 (2005).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOverall, K. L. \u0026amp; Osella, T. \u003cem\u003eClinical behavioral medicine for small animals\u003c/em\u003e (Mosby, 2001).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTuzio, H. et al. Feline behavior guidelines from the American Association of Feline Practitioners. \u003cem\u003e*J Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. * **225**\u003c/em\u003e, 562\u0026ndash;566 (2004).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHoupt, K. A. Companion animal behavior: A review of dog and cat behavior in the field, the laboratory and the clinic. \u003cem\u003e*Cornell Vet. * **70**\u003c/em\u003e, 308\u0026ndash;322 (1980).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBamberger, M. \u0026amp; Houpt, K. A. Signalment factors, comorbidity, and trends in behavior diagnoses in cats: 736 cases (1991\u0026ndash;2001). \u003cem\u003e*J Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. * **229**\u003c/em\u003e, 1602\u0026ndash;1606 (2006).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKsenofontova, A. A., Sotskova, E. V. \u0026amp; Zlobina, E. Y. The role of the owner in the formation of behavioral disorders in domestic cats. \u003cem\u003e*Vet Pharm. Ther. * **18**\u003c/em\u003e, 45\u0026ndash;51 (2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShingne, P. \u0026amp; Reese, L. A. Understanding feline behavior in application to environmental enrichment: A review. *J. \u003cem\u003eAppl. Anim. Welf. Sci. * **25**\u003c/em\u003e, 332\u0026ndash;347 (2022).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBuller, K. \u0026amp; Ballantyne, K. C. \u003cem\u003eLiving with cats: A guide to solving problem behaviors\u003c/em\u003e (CABI, 2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndenburg, N. \u0026amp; Knol, B. W. Behavioral problems in dogs and cats. \u003cem\u003e*Vet Q. * **16**\u003c/em\u003e, 37\u0026ndash;40 (1994).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHorwitz, D. F. \u003cem\u003eDecoding your cat: The ultimate experts explain common cat behaviors\u003c/em\u003e (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2018).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Tables","content":" \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eCharacteristics of the study population according to the investigated variables\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eNo.\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eVariable\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eCategory\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eNumber (n)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eBreed\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eDomestic Short Hair (DSH)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e250 / 403 (62.0%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003ePersian\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e127 / 403 (31.5%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eOther (Siamese, Russian Blue, Himalayan)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e26 / 403 (6.5%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eColor\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003ePure white\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e79 / 403 (19.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003ePure black\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e31 / 403 (7.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eCream/brown\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e50 / 403 (12.4%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eGray\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e36 / 403 (8.9%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eMixed\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e169 / 403 (41.9%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e3\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAge\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eUnder 6 months\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e83 / 403 (20.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eOver 6 months\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e317 / 403 (78.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e4\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eSex\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eMale\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e210 / 403 (52.1%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eFemale\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e188 / 403 (46.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eNeutering status\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eNeutered/spayed\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e91 / 403 (22.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eIntact (non-neutered)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e306 / 403 (75.9%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e6\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eDiet Type\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eCommercial dry food\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e84 / 403 (20.8%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eHomemade food\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e224 / 403 (55.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eCombination of both\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e91 / 403 (22.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e7\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eHealth status\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eHealthy\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e353 / 403 (87.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eSick\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e48 / 403 (11.9%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e8\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAge at Acquisition\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eUnder 6 months\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e119 / 403 (29.5%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eOver 6 months\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e281 / 403 (69.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e9\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eLiving environment\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eApartment\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e189 / 403 (46.9%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eHouse with a yard\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e200 / 403 (49.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eGarden, workshop, or factory\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e10 / 403 (2.5%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e10\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAcquisition method\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003ePurchased from previous owner\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e81 / 403 (20.1%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eGift from acquaintances\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e54 / 403 (13.4%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003ePurchased from pet shops or from shelters/strays\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e34 / 403 (8.4%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eFound stray/without owner\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e134 / 403 (33.3%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eOwner since birth\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e99 / 403 (24.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e11\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eLifestyle\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAlone (single cat)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e110 / 403 (27.3%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eWith other cats\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e293 / 403 (72.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cbr/\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003ePrevalence of behavioral problems in the cats of the present study\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eNo.\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eBehavior\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eNumber with Problem / Total (Percent)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e95% CI\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eScratching/damaging furniture, carpets \u0026amp; similar items\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e145 / 403 (36.0%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e31.3\u0026ndash;40.7\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAfraid/timid\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e134 / 403 (33.3%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e28.7\u0026ndash;37.9\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e3\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAttacking/showing aggression towards other cats\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e79 / 403 (19.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e15.7\u0026ndash;23.5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e4\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eInappropriate urination\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e60 / 403 (14.9%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e11.4\u0026ndash;18.3\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eHyperactivity/restlessness\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e59 / 403 (14.6%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e11.1\u0026ndash;18.0\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e6\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eExcessive/annoying vocalization\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e47 / 403 (11.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e8.6\u0026ndash;14.8\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e7\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAnxiety, obsessive, and excessive repetitive behaviors\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e35 / 403 (8.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e5.9\u0026ndash;11.4\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e8\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eInappropriate defecation\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e31 / 403 (7.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e5.0\u0026ndash;10.3\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e9\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eInappropriate sexual behaviors/movements\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e23 / 403 (5.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e3.4\u0026ndash;8.0\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e10\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAttacking/showing aggression towards dogs\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e20 / 403 (5.0%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.9\u0026ndash;7.1\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e11\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eOther behavioral problems\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e18 / 403 (4.5%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.5\u0026ndash;6.5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e12\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAttacking/showing aggression towards humans (owner \u0026amp; household members)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e16 / 403 (4.0%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.0\u0026ndash;5.9\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e13\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAttacking/showing aggression towards humans (strangers)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e15 / 403 (3.7%)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.9\u0026ndash;5.5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cbr/\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eSummary of Multivariable Logistic Regression Analysis for Behavioral Problems\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eBehavior\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eRisk Factor\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eComparison Group\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eaOR\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e95% CI\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Italic\" class=\"Italic\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eP\u003c/span\u003e-value\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eScratching Household Items\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003ePersian breed\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eDomestic Shorthair\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.1\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.2\u0026ndash;3.8\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e0.04\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eFearfulness\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eSource: Pet Store/Shelter\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eBreeder/Known Owner\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.8\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.5\u0026ndash;5.2\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eHousing: Solitary\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eMulti-cat Household\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.2\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.4\u0026ndash;3.5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eHousing: Apartment\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eOutdoor Access\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.9\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.2\u0026ndash;3.1\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e0.005\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eInappropriate Urination\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eMale sex\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eFemale\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e3.5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.0\u0026ndash;6.2\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003ePersian breed\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eDomestic Shorthair\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.3\u0026ndash;4.9\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e0.008\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAggression (Familiar People)\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAdopted\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;6 months\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAdopted\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;6 months\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.5\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.0\u0026ndash;6.1\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e0.047\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eRepetitive Behaviors\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eSolitary housing\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eMulti-cat Household\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.0\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.1\u0026ndash;3.7\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e0.02\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAge\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;6 months\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eAge\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;6 months\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e2.4\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.2\u0026ndash;4.8\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e0.01\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eSexual Behaviors\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eMale sex\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003eFemale\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e4.0\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e1.3\u0026ndash;12.0\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"SimplePara\"\u003e0.014\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"6\"\u003e\u003cspan type=\"Italic\" class=\"Italic\" name=\"Emphasis\"\u003eaOR: Adjusted Odds Ratio; CI: Confidence Interval. Only significant associations (P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05) are displayed.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cbr/\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"scientific-reports","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"scirep","sideBox":"Learn more about [Scientific Reports](http://www.nature.com/srep/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"","title":"Scientific Reports","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Scientific Reports","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Cats, Behavioral problems, Prevalence, Risk factors, Iran","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8855548/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8855548/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, 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).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMultivariable 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 \u0026lt; 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 \u0026lt; 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 \u0026lt; 0.05).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBehavior problems were common in this population. Identification of modifiable risk factors may assist veterinarians in providing preventive behavioral guidance.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Behavioral Disorders in Domestic Cats: A Cross- Sectional Survey of Owners in Mashhad, Iran (2020-2022)","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-03-11 15:25:24","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8855548/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-05-10T15:24:14+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"101440549097654173486109282056486790049","date":"2026-04-29T17:57:43+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"157554258825112551167798775368538456226","date":"2026-04-23T06:45:14+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2026-03-06T06:18:16+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2026-03-06T06:13:16+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2026-02-24T11:25:50+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2026-02-19T06:04:51+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Scientific Reports","date":"2026-02-19T05:59:50+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"scientific-reports","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"scirep","sideBox":"Learn more about [Scientific Reports](http://www.nature.com/srep/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"","title":"Scientific Reports","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Scientific Reports","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"d78645fe-d173-4fa9-853d-09bf1aff5c36","owner":[],"postedDate":"March 11th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-05-10T15:24:14+00:00","index":54,"fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"101440549097654173486109282056486790049","date":"2026-04-29T17:57:43+00:00","index":53,"fulltext":""}],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[{"id":64028954,"name":"Health sciences/Diseases"},{"id":64028955,"name":"Health sciences/Health care"},{"id":64028956,"name":"Health sciences/Risk factors"},{"id":64028957,"name":"Biological sciences/Zoology"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-03-11T15:25:25+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-03-11 15:25:24","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8855548","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8855548","identity":"rs-8855548","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}