Veterinary-led interventions and owner perceptions of male cat sterilization: Insights from a community-based initiative in Malang, Indonesia.

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Titel: Veterinary-led interventions and owner perceptions of male cat sterilization: Insights from a community-based initiative in Malang, Indonesia.
Autoren: Haryo, Albiruni1 albiruni.haryo@gmail.com, Untari, Handayu1 handayuntarivet@ub.ac.id
Quelle: Veterinary World. Jul2025, Vol. 18 Issue 7, p2113-2126. 14p.
Publikationsart: Article
Schlagworte: Sociocultural factors, Compliant behavior, Social attitudes, Collective action, Pet owners, Urban animals, Animal welfare
Geografische Kategorien: Indonesia, Malang (Indonesia)
Author-Supplied Keywords: community-based intervention
compliance behavior
cultural beliefs
male cat sterilization
One Health
urban animal control
veterinary outreach
Abstract: Background and Aim: Male cat sterilization is often neglected in feline population control strategies due to cultural beliefs, logistical barriers, and misconceptions, especially in developing urban areas. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a veterinary-led, community-based intervention in Malang, Indonesia, to promote male cat sterilization, improve owner compliance, and explore sociocultural influences on participation. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among owners of non-pedigree male cats (6 months to 5 years old) in the Greater Malang area. Data were collected through a validated online questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, sterilization readiness, compliance behavior, and sociocultural perceptions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression, while open-ended responses underwent thematic analysis. Results: Out of 182 potential respondents, 99 met the inclusion criteria and proceeded with the intervention. A 99% compliance rate was achieved (98/99), supported by strong community engagement and clear procedural guidelines. Education level, previous pet ownership, and affiliation with animal welfare organizations had a significant influence on compliance (p < 0.05). Barriers for non-compliant individuals included scheduling conflicts, financial constraints, and surgical apprehension. Thematic analysis revealed that cultural beliefs about masculinity and religious ambiguity were common deterrents, but community outreach and peer influence effectively shifted perceptions. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that structured, culturally attuned, veterinary-led community interventions can achieve high compliance in male cat sterilization. Strategic partnerships with local organizations, transparent communication, and logistical support are key to success. Findings support the integration of such programs into broader One Health initiatives, emphasizing responsible pet ownership, zoonotic disease mitigation, and sustainable management of urban animal populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Author Affiliations: 1Department of Veterinary Pathology Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang, Indonesia.
ISSN: 0972-8988
DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2025.2113-2126
Dokumentencode: 187135263
Datenbank: Veterinary Source
Beschreibung
Abstract:Background and Aim: Male cat sterilization is often neglected in feline population control strategies due to cultural beliefs, logistical barriers, and misconceptions, especially in developing urban areas. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a veterinary-led, community-based intervention in Malang, Indonesia, to promote male cat sterilization, improve owner compliance, and explore sociocultural influences on participation. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among owners of non-pedigree male cats (6 months to 5 years old) in the Greater Malang area. Data were collected through a validated online questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, sterilization readiness, compliance behavior, and sociocultural perceptions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression, while open-ended responses underwent thematic analysis. Results: Out of 182 potential respondents, 99 met the inclusion criteria and proceeded with the intervention. A 99% compliance rate was achieved (98/99), supported by strong community engagement and clear procedural guidelines. Education level, previous pet ownership, and affiliation with animal welfare organizations had a significant influence on compliance (p < 0.05). Barriers for non-compliant individuals included scheduling conflicts, financial constraints, and surgical apprehension. Thematic analysis revealed that cultural beliefs about masculinity and religious ambiguity were common deterrents, but community outreach and peer influence effectively shifted perceptions. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that structured, culturally attuned, veterinary-led community interventions can achieve high compliance in male cat sterilization. Strategic partnerships with local organizations, transparent communication, and logistical support are key to success. Findings support the integration of such programs into broader One Health initiatives, emphasizing responsible pet ownership, zoonotic disease mitigation, and sustainable management of urban animal populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:09728988
DOI:10.14202/vetworld.2025.2113-2126