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Pets improve kids’ mental health - except one, which makes things worse
New York Post • • health
Key Points:
- Growing up with pets generally benefits children's physical health by boosting their immune system and protecting against various conditions such as ear infections, eczema, and food allergies.
- A recent study found that owning a cat at ages 4-5 was linked to an increased risk of both internalizing (emotional and peer problems) and externalizing (conduct and hyperactivity) mental health issues at ages 7-8.
- In contrast, children with less common pets like rabbits, hamsters, fish, turtles, or salamanders showed fewer internalizing problems, and dogs and birds had no significant impact on mental health.
- Researchers suggest cats may be less affectionate and often chosen by families with children already experiencing mental health issues, meaning the association might not be causal.
- Other studies have shown positive effects of cats on children's mental health, such as increased empathy and reduced anxiety in autistic children, indicating the relationship between cats and mental health is complex.
