This diploma thesis deals with the issue of sociological research on animal abuse. It identifies the basic problems that this research has to deal with, these problems are described in detail and a solution is proposed in the form of the construction of a new research tool. Subsequently, an attempt is made to validate this newly created research tool, its weaknesses and strengths are summed up and further possible research in this area is discussed. In the theoretical part of the thesis, the problem of animal abuse is introduced in the historical context first, and then a summary of basic problems of sociological exploration of this phenomenon is presented. The final chapter of this section addresses the issue of ethical aspects of animal abuse research. The methodological part presents the design of the research, the process of construction of a new research tool and the methods and approaches used. The analytical part summarizes the knowledge obtained during the cognitive interviews that were conducted in order to validate the newly created research tool. The benefits and limitations of the new instrument are discussed and proposals are made to continue the research on this issue.