Factors influencing feline antiparasitic prescriptions by veterinarians and demographics across parts of the UK.

BACKGROUND

Antiparasitic drugs used in companion animals may persist in the environment, contributing to ecological contamination and raising One Health concerns. Understanding behavioural patterns of veterinarians' prescription is essential for development of effective antiparasitic stewardship programmes.

METHODS

A survey of 29 questions was completed between 22 February and 6 March 2024 by 16 qualified veterinary surgeons selected through non-probability convenience sampling. The online platform JISC enabled creation and distribution of the survey. Descriptive statistics including percentages for the Likert-scale questions were used to explore nominal and ordinal data alongside the collection of demographic data.

RESULTS

Ease of administration was a primary consideration for 81% of respondents and client preference strongly influenced 44% of veterinarians in product selection. Only 6% of respondents agreed that environmental contamination and drug resistance guided their prescribing. Prophylactic administration was recognised as the most effective strategy by 63% of respondents. Notably only 38% of participants actively kept up to date with parasite treatment guidelines.

LIMITATIONS: The sample size was 16 veterinarians and the geographic distribution of participants was limited.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights regional and demographic factors influencing feline antiparasitic prescribing, emphasising the need for expanded surveillance beyond the studied UK regions. Despite growing concerns about environmental contamination and drug resistance, these factors have a minimal impact on antiparasitic prescribing practices.