Japanese researcher Atsuko Saito warned that sudden behavioral changes, aggression, and litter box refusal in cats can indicate underlying physical pain or illness.
Speaking to Russian news agency RIA Novosti, the associate professor at Sophia University in Tokyo explained that obsessive grooming and sudden shifts in temperament are frequently overlooked warning signs of medical distress in domestic pets.
Saito cautioned cat owners against attempting to administer medications to their pets without professional guidance. When subtle symptoms or behavioral shifts occur, he advised taking affected animals directly to a qualified veterinarian for proper medical evaluation rather than attempting home treatments.
The Japanese expert emphasized that pet owners must also carefully analyze their cat's daily living environment and behavioral patterns. He urged owners to evaluate whether their pet engages in adequate play, has access to a quiet area for undisturbed rest, and receives sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation suited to its age.
Feline welfare and pet care in Japan
Meeting an animal's basic physical and psychological needs is essential for pet health and is often capable of correcting troubling behavior, according to Saito.
Japan maintains a highly developed culture of pet ownership, where domestic cats outnumber dogs by a wide margin. Statistics from 2025 indicate that the nation is home to approximately 8.8 million cats, compared to 6.8 million dogs. Sophia University, a private research institution in Tokyo where Saito works, is widely recognized for scholarly research into animal cognition and human-animal relationships.
Proposed tax deduction for veterinary care
The advice from Japan comes as lawmakers in Russia evaluate new financial measures to support pet owners facing rising healthcare costs for their animals. In early August 2026, State Duma deputy Dmitry Gusev proposed introducing a tax deduction in Russia specifically covering veterinary treatment expenses.
Gusev emphasized that domestic pets are regarded as full family members by millions of Russian households. He noted that when a dog or cat falls ill, owners regularly spare no expense to secure necessary medical care. The State Duma, which functions as the lower chamber of the Federal Assembly of Russia in Moscow, considers tax policy and social legislation for the country.
