EXPRESS: Acute Pain in Cats: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among Argentine Veterinarians - A Survey-Based Study.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate Argentine veterinarians' knowledge, attitudes, and management of acute pain in cats. METHODS: A voluntary, anonymous, prospective, cross-sectional online survey was conducted among Argentine veterinarians between January and September 2024. The questionnaire explored demographics, clinical practice, and acute pain management in cats. The survey comprised multiple-choice and open-ended questions, using 5-point Likert scales tailored to each variable. RESULTS: A total of 161 responses were obtained, of which 154 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Ninety-five percent considered acute pain assessment in cats important, although 66% reported dissatisfaction with undergraduate training in pain management. Pain recognition skills were generally perceived as adequate, yet 45% reported challenges in treatment. Eighty-two percent routinely evaluated pain in cats; however, only 56% used standardized tools, primarily the Feline Grimace Scale (FGS). Pain assessment was performed predominantly by female veterinarians, who also showed greater familiarity with standardized scales. Overall, participants expressed a strong preference for continuing online education. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Argentine veterinarians attach high importance to acute pain assessment in cats and report having adequate knowledge despite dissatisfaction with undergraduate training. The FGS was the most frequently used tool; female veterinarians assessed pain more often and showed greater familiarity with standardized scales. In this study, online courses were identified as the preferred method of continuing education.