Attitudes, knowledge and behavior of cat owners of importance for the control of zoonotic diseases

Aim Since the general public is insufficiently familiar with the concept and mechanisms of transmission of certain infectious agents from cats to humans, the aim of this study was to assess the attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors of cat owners relevant to the control of zoonoses, with special emphasis on diseases of parasitic etiology. Methods The study was conducted among 302 cat owners in Niš (Serbia) between June and September 2025, with the aim of evaluating the public health aspects of zoonotic parasitic and viral diseases. Data were collected using a specially designed questionnaire, administered through interviews conducted in the participants’ homes, with a systematic household selected sample. The study was carried out in accordance with ethical principles, and informed consent was obtained from all participants. The questionnaire covered sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes, behaviors, education level, and potential risk factors associated with cat ownership. Results The surveyed cat owners were predominantly middle-aged women, most of whom lived in apartments and had secondary or higher education. Most cats were older than three years, of mixed breed, kept indoors, and acquired from friends or taken from the street, while preventive veterinary measures (vaccination, deworming, and regular check-ups) were implemented irregularly. Knowledge about zoonoses was low, as only one third of respondents were aware that cats can transmit diseases to humans, and only a small proportion consulted a veterinarian on this topic. Younger owners were more frequently aware of zoonotic risks, more often applied recommended preventive measures, and had closer contact with their cats, but they also more frequently reported injuries caused by scratches or bites. Conclusion In order to preserve the One Health concept and overcome the challenges it entails, effective communication between current and future cat owners and their veterinarians is essential. Only through comprehensive knowledge of all necessary aspects of proper breeding, development, care, and health protection of cats can the risk of potential zoonoses be successfully minimized.