Source: Medical Xpress
A study by James Cook University researchers suggests that dog owners are generally more resilient and less neurotic than cat owners, potentially due to inherent personality differences. Dr. Jessica Oliva, co-author of the study published in Anthrozoös, notes that “dog people” and “cat people” have distinct personality traits. The research, involving 321 participants, found that dog owners displayed higher resilience, while cat owners exhibited higher neuroticism, even after accounting for age and gender.
Dr. Oliva theorizes that genetic factors may influence both personality traits and the propensity to prefer certain pets, suggesting that resilient individuals may be naturally inclined to prefer dogs. The study also indicates that dog ownership might enhance resilience over time. Despite increased pet ownership during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the study concludes that personality, especially resilience, is more crucial in coping with isolation than pet ownership itself. Pet acquisition should be carefully considered, prioritizing the animal’s welfare.
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