Living With Cats Not Linked To Worse Asthma in Children

A large Swedish study suggests that living with a cat does not worsen asthma in children and teenagers. Researchers analyzed health data from more than 30,000 children and adolescents diagnosed with asthma or airway allergies and followed them for two years. About 9% of the participants lived in homes with at least one cat.

The study found no meaningful differences between children who lived with cats and those who did not. Rates of moderate-to-severe asthma, asthma attacks, and overall lung function were similar across both groups. Researchers also found that factors such as the number of cats in the home, the cat’s age, or the cat’s sex did not affect asthma outcomes.

One possible explanation is that cat allergens are common in shared environments such as schools, public transportation, and other public spaces, meaning children may be exposed regardless of pet ownership. The findings suggest that, for many families, having a cat may not negatively impact a child’s asthma control or severity.