Source: Science Alert
Countries with more cats tend to report higher levels of happiness, according to a study examining data from 93 countries. Researchers analyzed national happiness scores, domestic cat density, wealth, and exposure to Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite for which cats are the primary host.
The study found that countries with higher cat populations generally reported greater happiness, while higher exposure to T. gondii was associated with lower happiness. Surprisingly, countries with more cats also tended to have lower parasite exposure.
Researchers cautioned that the findings demonstrate associations rather than cause and effect. Socioeconomic conditions could help explain the patterns, since wealthier countries may have greater cat ownership, better Veterinary care, improved sanitation, more indoor cats, and greater use of commercial pet food.
The researchers said future studies should examine individual cat owners and nonowners over time to better understand whether cat ownership influences happiness and how biological, ecological, and socioeconomic factors interact.