Evaluation of clinical examination location on stress in cats: a randomized crossover trial.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of owner separation and physical examination location on fear, anxiety and stress (FAS) behavioral indicators in cats.

Methods: The study was a prospective, non-blinded, randomized, two-period, two-treatment crossover trial. Healthy adult cats presenting for wellness or dental evaluations at a single veterinary teaching hospital received three physical examinations: a baseline assessment (owner present) followed by physical examinations in both a treatment area (owner absent [TAOA]) and an examination room (owner present [EROP]).