Future perspectives on household pharmaceutical management and medication administration for companion animals in Japan

Abstract

Background: Companion animals are increasingly viewed as family members, with growing attention to their health and well-being. However, improper storage and use of medications at home can pose risks such as accidental ingestion by companion animals or children, health deterioration due to drug exposure, and environmental harm. In Japan, while the demand for advanced veterinary care is rising, there is limited information on how medications for companion animals are managed and administered at home. Objective: This study aimed to investigate, for the first time, the real-world practices and challenges related to the storage, handling, and administration of medications for companion animals in Japanese households. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted between April and July 2024 via Google Forms. The survey addressed two key aspects: medication storage and management, and administration difficulties experienced by owners. Ethical approval was obtained from the Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University Ethics Committee. Results: A questionnaire was distributed to 2862 companion animal owners, and 191 responses were received (response rate: 6.7%). Most respondents were women in their 50s or 60s living in the Kanto region, and dogs were the most common companion animals. Medication storage practices were generally appropriate, although some instances of storage in high-humidity or unstable-temperature areas were observed. There were 10 cases reported in which companion animals either accidentally ingested or attempted to ingest human medications. While many owners reported no difficulties with medication administration, others highlighted challenges such as companion animals spitting out the medication, bitterness of medications, and difficulties adjusting administration times to personal schedules. Approximately 20% of the owners modified medications prior to administration, including crushing tablets or measuring liquids. Conclusion: This study provides initial insights into medication management for companion animals in Japanese households. Although storage was largely appropriate, issues related to administration and accidental ingestion were identified. This study highlights the potential role of pharmacists in supporting appropriate veterinary medication use through formulation adjustments and pharmaceutical care, ultimately improving adherence and reducing stress for both owners and companion animals.