A survey of acquisition and animal-related factors leading to microchipping and neutering of dogs and cats in Portugal

Abstract

Microchipping and neutering are useful tools for animal control and are mandatory in some countries. In Portugal, microchipping for dogs became mandatory in 2008 and for cats in 2022. However, despite being mandatory, it is frequently disregarded. By contrast, neutering, which is not mandatory, is perceived as expensive. Little is understood about the reasoning related to microchipping or neutering decisions. The authors used an online questionnaire to investigate the characteristics of dogs and cats, as well as acquisition factors, that might contribute to microchipping and neutering decision-making. The analysis is based on 1047 valid responses obtained from companion animal guardians living in Portugal, using the non-parametric Chi-Square test. The authors found that male cats were more frequently neutered (74%) than male dogs (35%) and that fewer cats were microchipped (12%) compared to dogs (77%). It was also found that companion animals acquired from municipal shelters or from animal protection associations had a higher probability of being neutered and microchipped than companion animals collected from the street. Municipal shelter and animal protection association staff generally inform guardians, during the adoption process, about the benefits of neutering and the obligation of microchipping dogs. It is important that information regarding responsible guardianship, including the need for neutering and microchipping, is also provided when companion animals are acquired in other places, such as when they are acquired from the street. A national campaign to create awareness about, and increase the level of, neutering and microchipping for both species is recommended, even when the animals are indoor-only pets.