Companion Animals

Cat Welfare in 2026: Progress and Persistent Issues

Overview of companion cat welfare issues and advances in 2026.

Key Facts

Feline pain assessment becoming more integrated into veterinary practice
FIP antiviral treatment transforming outcomes for affected cats
Hyperthyroidism remains underdiagnosed in many older cats
Multi-cat household stress a major source of welfare problems
Population management via neutering programmes progressing globally

Welfare Considerations

Cat welfare in 2026 has benefited from advances in pain recognition, transformative FIP treatments, and growing veterinary awareness of chronic conditions. Multi-cat household stress, inadequate environmental enrichment, and gaps in owner education about feline needs remain significant welfare challenges. Population management remains critical for stray cat welfare.

What You Can Do

Provide cats with appropriate environmental enrichment and hiding spaces
Seek veterinary care for signs of pain or illness promptly
Support local TNR programmes and responsible cat population management