Impacts of Species, Gender Disparities, and COVID-19 Lockdowns on Population Control: Insights from 337,590 Dogs and Cats in Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Thailand (2009-2023)

Abstract

Surgical sterilization stands as a key solution to address the overpopulation of dogs and cats, with numerous influencing factors impacting the success of population control efforts, including species, gender, and financial conditions. The emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), or COVID-19, in 2020 has significantly altered human life and impacted pet animals. Lockdown restrictions were implemented in various countries, including Thailand, affecting the cumulative data of neutered animals, which was subsequently analyzed in this study. There were 337,590 dogs and cats from 2009 to 2023, and the data were systematically categorized by years, species, and gender. The findings revealed a higher prevalence of sterilization in cats compared to dogs, with females undergoing the procedure more frequently than males. Our results indicated that careful consideration should be directed toward the national policy of pet sterilization, with a focus on gender differences and the growing cat population in society. The significance and benefits of sterilization should be equally emphasized for both genders and must be highlighted as a matter of both public and national concern. Notably, the number of neutered animals during the COVID-19 restriction period was lower than in the non-restriction period. The consequence could result in worsening the overpopulation problem soon, suggesting that the national rabies prevention and population control program must be more concerned.