Acute pain in cats: knowledge, attitudes and practices among Argentine veterinarians - a survey-based study

ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to investigate Argentine veterinarians' knowledge, attitudes and management of acute pain in cats.MethodsA 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.ResultsA total of 161 responses were obtained, of which 154 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Of the responses, 95% 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. Pain in cats was routinely evaluated by 82% of respondents; 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 relevanceArgentine 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.