Wellbeing
Pets and mental health: why your pet is helping more than you think
The short answer
Our beloved pets support mental health in measurable ways. In fact, it’s one of the most rewarding benefits of owning a pet. Stroking a dog or cat can release oxytocin, a bonding hormone linked to feeling calmer and more optimistic, while daily walks and feeding routines add structure and exercise to our day. Pet companionship also helps to ease loneliness.
PDSA's 2025 PAW Report found 88% of pet owners say pet ownership makes them mentally healthier, with 87% saying it makes them feel less lonely.
What science says about pets and mental health
Research shows that when you stroke a dog or cat (or in the case of dogs, even simply sharing eye contact), your body releases oxytocin, the same bonding hormone involved in forming loving human relationships. Not only does oxytocin help you feel calmer and more optimistic, it's also been linked to lower blood pressure. That's why spending five minutes with your cat on your lap feels like it’s taking the edge off a tough day. It’s biology!
Amazingly, a US study into dog owners also suggests the strength of your relationship with your pet is what truly makes a difference when it comes to pets reducing stress. Owners who feel emotionally close to their dog report better wellbeing than those who don't, suggesting quality time spent with your pet is beneficial to your mental health.
5 ways your pet looks after you
They get you moving
Forget the fitness apps - when there’s a tail wagging close by, dog owners will be hitting their step count! Dog walking and mental health go hand-in-hand, boosting your mood by combining exercise, sunshine and time outdoors. When you have a dog, you stay accountable for getting outside for a walk as it’s already built into your daily routine. If you forget, expect your dog to bring their lead to you as a reminder!
They keep you in a routine
Feeding times, walk times, evening zoomies… pets run on a familiar schedule. If you’re not sticking to it, they’ll let you know! Seeing your furry friend staring at their food bowl is all the motivation you need to get up and move. When life feels chaotic, that structure is grounding.
They're a conversation starter
Don’t be shy - everyone loves to chat about their pets. Dog walking is actually one of the most common ways people meet their neighbours, with many owners counting people they've met through their dog as genuine friends. Even for cat owners, pets are a perfect icebreaker topic. Just ask anyone who's ever bonded with a complete stranger over photos of their cats!
They ease loneliness
Pets make wonderful company. The link between pets and loneliness is one of the most well-documented areas of pet ownership. For people who live alone, simply having another living creature in the house with its own routine can make a home feel less empty. How does it make you feel when you hear them potter about? When you see their excitement when greeting you at the door? Pet companionship is one of the most consistently reported benefits of sharing your life with an animal.
They keep you in the moment
Pets are natural mindfulness coaches. A cat kneading a blanket or a dog utterly absorbed in a scent trail isn't watching time or worrying about the future - and neither are you. Quality bonding time with your pet is a reliable way to put the screen down, stop multi-tasking, and just be with them, doing one thing. Plus, it’s usually very cute to watch. What better way to feel warm and fuzzy?
How to make pet time part of your self-care routine
Want to turn the everyday benefits up a notch? Try building these tips into your week:
Take your dog on a walk without your phone - ten minutes of undivided attention works wonders.
Make grooming a wind-down ritual - a slow, soothing brushing session in the evening is calming for most dogs and cats, and the repetitive motion is genuinely relaxing for you too.
Play like you mean it - five minutes of proper play with a wand toy or a game of tug strengthens your bond with your pet, along with your wellbeing.
Sit with them - whether it’s a cat on your lap or your dog leaning against your leg, enjoy moments of quiet contact. That’s the magic oxytocin moment.
Do pets pick up on our emotions too?
Dogs and cats are amazingly intuitive at picking up on human emotion, with research showing they can even mirror our stress. Alone time can be particularly daunting to pets with separation anxiety, so be sure to give them lots of extra love and attention.
Wellbeing works both ways, so carve out time for self-care. That could be embracing a calmer routine, more time spent outdoors, engaging in proper play with your pet, or just taking time to rest together. Everything that’s good for your mental health is also great for your four-legged friend.
Need to talk to a human?
While pets make brilliant companions, they aren’t a substitute for professional mental health support. If you need to talk to someone, Samaritans are free to call anytime on 116 123. Your pet will be very happy to sit with you while you make the call.