New research suggests that cats are more affectionate when they are pampered by their owners during lockdowns. This might surprise some considering cats' sometimes undeserved reputation for being distant.Many of us have experienced firsthand the value of our pets during the stress and weirdness of the pandemic, and the associated lockdowns. This is supported by studies that show pets provide stress relief and reduce loneliness, regardless of their species.One study participant said, "I have two rescue cats. The first was very anxious. But she is calmer now that I'm home every day."Researchers from the Universities of York, Lincoln, and the United Kingdom conducted a survey of 5,323 people living with companion animals. This was done to determine the effects of major changes in their daily routines.More than 65 percent of participants reported that their companion animals behaved differently during the 2020 lockdown. Participants were asked several questions about their pets, their mental health, and their relationship. Participants were also encouraged to add further comments.While many owners reported positive changes in their companion animals overall, the worst-performing species was the dogs.Another pet owner explained that their dog is becoming more demanding and howls when I go out of the house, even if it's to do some gardening. He can still see me. He will find it very difficult to go back to work.About 10% of pet owners of horse, dog and cat have reported that their animals are more uneasy due to the changes. However, up to 30% said their pets seemed more relaxed, while 15% observed their pets being more active and playful. A third of pet owners of cats and dogs noticed their companions following them more often than usual.Changes in exercise and socialization were a major problem for dog owners.A survey respondent said that their dog is missing socializing and doesn't know what happened. He is a friendly Labrador, and he doesn't understand why people don't make a fuss about him anymore. People cross the road to avoid him.Some cats were also missing their normal interactions."My cat is a registered therapy feline. We miss our visits and we look forward to visiting his fans again. He misses all of his worship and fuss."Emily Shoesmith, University of York Health Scientist, and her colleagues looked at the mental health of owners before and after the lockdowns to determine if it was related to any of the changes.Shoesmith stated that "our findings indicate that poorer mental well-being may lead to increased attention being paid to one's companion animals.""Empathic engagement can increase reporting of any positive or negative changes in animal welfare and behaviour."It was interesting to note that pets with poorer mental health scores prior to lockdown experienced less changes during lockdown than pets with better mental health.Daniel Mills, University of Lincoln animal behaviorist, stated that "Owner mental status has a clear impact on companion animal welfare & behavior." "It is something that we must consider when trying to do the best for the animals we love."Team suspects that 35.9% of cats perceive increased affection as a result of changes in their owners' behavior. The humans seek more companionship and physical contact. They suggest that this may have led cats to seek out more treats and other resources from owners.Shoesmith and his colleagues point out that survey studies like these have many limitations. Self-reported answers may not reflect an objective answer, but rather reflect the owner's current state of mind. The UK population is not accurately represented by the respondents - the majority of those surveyed were women.This latest study is part of a series that suggests changes in our lifestyles can have a significant effect on the lives of our pets. This study also shows the importance of spending more time with beloved pets. They clearly love it!This research was published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
