Pets and mental health

Pets bring so many mental health benefits, including some we may not have even realised. 

Just looking after pets and spending time in their company is said to improve our mental and physical health; something you’ll already know if you have a cat or dog.

As any pet parent will tell you, there’s nothing better than coming home and being welcomed by a dog or cat who’s been waiting all day for your reunion! 

Whether you’re greeted by waggy tails or perfect purrs, that feel-good factor doesn’t end there. Here’s a snapshot of the mental health benefits of having feline friend or canine companion as part of your family…

Pets provide a routine

Our pets need regular feeding and exercise to stay healthy. 

Regardless of the feeding and exercising routines you find together, having a structure to your day can help you feel grounded. 

Plus, you’re rewarded with a sense of achievement once everything is done and you can finally sit down for cuddles on the sofa at night!

Pets give us a sense of purpose

Your dog or cat rely on you to fulfil their every need, which can be a great incentive to keep active. 

Even on the worst days, your pets can help by keeping you focused on their routine – often providing a welcome distraction you from any worries or anxieties.

Pets inspire you to stay active

Having a dog means you’re likely to be heading out at least once a day to make sure they don’t miss out on their walk. Physical activity improves your mental health and can help with:

Sleep – exercising with your pet and a healthy dose of fresh air can help tire you out, setting you up for a good night’s sleep at the end of the day.

Moods – physical activity releases feel-good hormones called endorphins, the body's natural painkillers and mood elevators. Just a small amount of exercise with your pet won’t just make you feel better in yourself, it can also give you energy to get other things done.

Stress or anxiety – being active gives your brain something to focus on and can be a positive coping mechanism as well. Some studies have also found that just petting your cat or dog can actually help relieve stress without you realising!

Pets encourage us to be sociable

It’s important for our mental health that we socialise and keep in touch with fellow humans, and our furry friends can be a great help with this.

Bumping into another dog walker in the park can easily turn into a conversation about your canine companions, their breeds, and their pet peeves. Alternatively, your cat could encourage a conversation with a previously unknown neighbour when they walk along your shared fence. 

Pets are four-legged icebreakers, and these quick chats can be hugely significant for your mental health.

Even joining pet social media pages or groups can give you the chance to meet new people and speak to other owners about all things cat and dog.

Pets help with loneliness

From helping break the ice on dog walks to cuddling up on the sofa and watching TV in the evenings, our beloved pets offer comfort and company when it’s needed most. Pets listen as you vent, and they don’t judge – they love you just as you are. Sometimes, spending time with pets is the best kind of therapy.

For someone who’s lonely or isolated, particularly in later life or for those who have experienced loss, pets are someone to share the day with, which is invaluable. 

Thinking of getting a pet?

Before getting a dog or cat, ensure it’s the right time, your living arrangements are suitable, and you’d be able to provide the level of care they need. 

Doing research is important, too – to ensure the pet you get is the best fit for your family and that you as a family would be the best fit for them, too.

While there are plenty of websites providing advice on animal care (including our Dog Advice and Cat Advice hubs), it’s also worth speaking to other pet parents for insight. 

Additionally, you could speak to vet experts (like those at Joii Pet Care) to get professional advice as to how best to care for your future dog or cat.