Spanish study links cats to lower mental health scores in young children

A study conducted by Spanish epidemiologists through the Infancia y Medio Ambiente (INMA) project has identified a surprising link between pet ownership and childhood mental health. Analyzing data from approximately 1,900 mother-child pairs across various regions of Spain, researchers examined the impact of animals such as dogs, cats, birds, and small mammals on children aged 7 to 8.

The findings published in the World Journal of Pediatrics suggest that cats may be associated with lower mental health scores in young children. In contrast, other pets—including rabbits, reptiles, and amphibians—appeared to have the opposite effect or showed different associations.

Researchers emphasized that these findings do not prove causation. While pets are often believed to foster empathy, responsibility, and social skills, the study indicates the relationship between animal companionship and psychological well-being is complex. Some initial analyses showed that children who had never lived with pets exhibited the most positive mental health scores.