Cross-sectional study of perceptions of competence and confidence in feline handling

Abstract

Background: Cats may be difficult to manage in the clinical environment as a result of behavioural responses to fear and stress, which can be misinterpreted as aggression. Registered veterinary nurses require both attributes of competence and confidence when working with feline patients. Methods: 152 registered veterinary nurses working in small animal practice were recruited to this cross-sectional mixed-methods online survey study. Results: The results show that perceptions of competence and confidence are high, and both attributes are linked. Perceived competence and confidence across different scenarios were scored, with both attributes positively correlating – this was significantly higher with participant enjoyment and when handling amenable cats. Scores for handling difficult cats were significantly impacted by participant age, qualification, time qualified, ownership and previous experience. However, sample bias cannot be discounted, and the sample size was small. Conclusions: Registered veterinary nurses should be supported to develop both competence and confidence over time, especially when working with challenging patients. Overcoming negative experiences may be important for improving feline care, and further training may be one way to support this.