30-04-2025
Owning dogs cuts risk of dementia by 40% - having cats makes no difference
Dogs and cats are two of the UK's most popular pets and are known to bring joy to their owners, relieve stress and be great companions.
But did you know that dog ownership can help reduce the risk of developing dementia in adults over 50 by up to 40% compared to those without pets?
The findings published by Japanese researchers looked at 11,194 adults and also found that dog owners who are social and exercised regularly experienced a 20% decrease in dementia risk.
But it is not good news for cat owners.
The same study, published in 2023, found that owning a cat didn't quite have the same effect.
Another study last year looked at the link between pet ownership and cognitive decline of 7,495 adults in the UK over the age of 50.
As part of the study, people did psychological tests which assessed their memory, verbal fluency, and thinking eight years apart.
This particular study found that owning cats and dogs reduces cognitive decline among people who live alone.
Those who live alone showed no significant benefit.
This means that owning cats and dogs could reduce cognitive decline for people who live alone.
According to Alzheimer's Society, people with dementia can experience an improvement in their self-esteem or confidence when they have a pet and can also improve quality of life and independence.
Looking after a pet may help those with dementia stay more engaged and involved if they are having trouble communicating with others.
Animals can also be a source of love and laughter for those who have dementia.
But the charity says there are a number of things to consider if somebody with dementia is looking to get a pet.
Does the person have the mental capacity to decide if they want a pet – This is to make sure there is a level of understanding about the responsibility and commitment involved.
Will the person be able to meet the needs of the pet – This includes the ability to feed and hydrate their pets, take them out for exercise, to the vets, and clean them.
Where to get a pet from – Some breeders, rescue centres or pet shops may refuse to sell a pet to somebody who has dementia.
The feelings of the person with dementia – Not everybody with dementia will want a pet so individuals needs will have to be considered.
Would the person benefit from semi-interactions with a pet instead – This could be in the form of animal visits rather than owning one.
Would a robotic pet or cuddly toy help instead – Some people with dementia benefit from robotic pets or teddy bears. This is because a fake pet can create many of the same calming qualities associated with a real pet.
One man, 88-year-old Robert Wyatt, who had dementia, loved cats and had a robotic pet during his last few days alive. More Trending
The toy feels and acts like a real cat and it was specifically designed by Joy For All Cats to bring companionship and comfort to elderly people with dementia.
Robert, from Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, named it Buddly and he was convinced it was real.
He cuddled the toy every day until he passed away peacefully with the cat in his arms in 2020.
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