Factors Associated with Responsible Companion Animal Care: A CrossSectional Study of U.S. Pet Owners

Abstract Background: Pet ownership in the U.S. is increasing, but owners vary in their understanding and practices of responsible care. Few studies have explored how demographics affect pet care knowledge, feeding practices, and animal welfare behaviors. Objective: This study aimed to assess pet owners’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding basic pet care, feeding practices, and animal welfare, and to examine demographic factors associated with responsible care practices. Methods: A web-based survey among U.S. adults aged 18+ who owned or previously owned a dog or cat was conducted, recruiting via social media, email, and flyers. It included scales on pet care knowledge, animal welfare attitudes, and pet care behaviors. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, correlations, and chi-square tests to explore demographic links to pet care outcomes. Results: A total of 294 participants completed the survey (mean age = 41.15 years; 87.7% female). Participants demonstrated generally positive attitudes toward preventive veterinary care and animal welfare. Female participants scored significantly higher on all three scales compared to males (p < .05). Participants with higher educational attainment also reported significantly greater basic pet care knowledge and personal pet care behaviors (p < .05). Positive associations were observed between support for spaying/neutering and support for microchipping (p < .001). Conclusions: Pet owners generally reported strong awareness of responsible animal care practices; however, knowledge and implementation varied by gender and education. Increased public education, veterinary outreach, and preventive care resources may help strengthen responsible pet ownership practices and improve companion animal welfare outcomes.