Spending Time With Your Cat May Not Help Your Mood When Feeling Stressed

A recent study involving 188 pet owners revealed that while cats and dogs generally improve overall mood, interacting with cats specifically after stressful events was associated with increased feelings of stress. This finding suggests that the calming effects of pets might not hold true immediately after stressful moments. The study's implications could influence how pet owners manage their interactions with their pets during times of stress, highlighting the nuanced relationship between pets and mental health.