Source: dvm360
A study funded by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) reveals that fostering shelter cats can positively impact the mental health and reduce loneliness in older adults living alone. Conducted by researchers from the University of Georgia and Brenau University, the study aimed to explore the effects of cat fostering on the wellbeing of older adults. Removing barriers to pet ownership, such as pet deposit and adoption fees, resulted in a significant drop in loneliness scores after four months.
At the end of the study, 95.7% of participants adopted their foster cats. Despite a slight decrease in statistical significance at the 12-month follow-up, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the study underscores the potential for lasting human-animal bonds and improved health outcomes for both humans and cats.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.dvm360.com/view/new-study-finds-reduced-loneliness-in-older-adults-living-with-fostered-cats