A new generic feline quality of life (FelQoL) questionnaire: part 1 – development and validation

ObjectivesThe central aim of this study was to develop a questionnaire that can be used to assess the combined emotional and physical wellbeing of pet cats - that is, to evaluate their quality of life (QoL). Using answers to this questionnaire, we then aimed to develop a statistically validated and robust algorithm (an instrument) to derive a set of reproducible QoL dimensions for evaluating and comparing the wellbeing of cats.MethodsResponses from 1324 cat owners in the USA and UK were collected and used to identify key cat QoL dimensions using well-established approaches. Statistical analysis was used to evaluate the extent to which our algorithm produced comparable results when used across different populations of cats (validity and robustness). Furthermore, data from 385 cats were collected again after 2 weeks to evaluate the extent to which scores of the QoL dimensions varied over time (reliability).ResultsA data-driven analysis was used to develop an instrument with seven QoL dimensions across daytime and mealtime behaviours: Active, Talkative, Satisfied, Relaxed, Mobile, Appetite and Sociable. Statistical analysis confirmed the robustness, validity and reliability of the instrument.Conclusions and relevanceThe Feline Quality of Life questionnaire and its associated instrument evaluated cat QoL across seven dimensions and allowed exploration of wellbeing across different cat demographics and health conditions. The questionnaire can be used by pet owners interested in better understanding the wellbeing of their cat and by veterinary professionals to gather information that complements in-clinic health assessments.