Coming home to a purring cat or a wagging tail can feel like a warm hug after a long day. In my own life, my two cats often remind me to pause and enjoy the little moments. One of them will fall asleep on my lap while I work or next to me when I’m reading on the sofa, and suddenly I’m fully present, petting them and feeling tension melt away. These simple moments of connection offer a gentle reset for the mind.

Original photo - taken and owned by Autmly

How Our Bodies React to Pets

Petting a cat or a dog even briefly can slow down our breathing and heart rate, signaling to our nervous system that it’s okay to relax. Research also shows that simply stroking an animal triggers the release of oxytocin (often called the “feel-good“ hormone) and reduces cortisol - the body’s stress hormone. In other words - our bodies respond by calming down. So there is no wonder why in a 2024 pool by the American Psychiatric Association found that 84% of pet owners say their animals have mostly positive impact on their mental health. Many owners describe their pet as a true friend who gives unconditional love and support, and about 62% say that simply being with their pet provides a calming presence that eases anxiety.

And therapy animal programs can demonstrate what these benefits can do over time. Like in one Washington State University study, where they tracked first-year college students who had weekly, casual drop-in sessions with therapy dogs. Those students reported significantly less stress and depression after several months that a control group without dog visits. And they also showed higher self-compassion scores. This suggests that regular, unstructured time with a friendly animal can build resilience and improve mood. In short, both quick petting sessions and ongoing companionship make a real difference in how we feel.

More Benefits of Pets

Aside from stress relief, pets enrich our lives in many other ways. For dog owners, a pet often means regular exercise, which naturally lifts spirits. In fact, over a third of pet owners report being more physically active because of their animals. Pets also gives us a daily routine and a sense of purpose: feeding, grooming and playing schedules our day and knowing our pets depend on us can be a great motivator. Some studies even suggest that that pet owners tend to have a higher self esteem.

Moreover, not all support must come from a furry lap-sitter. NIH researchers note that the “right“ pet depends on your goals: for help with managing stress, even watching fish in an aquarium can make people feel calmer. In fact, casual observations show that children playing with guinea pigs or teenagers caring for pet fish improve their focus and discipline.

Making Time for Pets

Our pets do far more that entertain us. They can significantly nurture our mental health. By lowering stress hormones, providing companionship, keeping us active and giving us purpose, animals help us navigate anxiety and loneliness. So why not try and be more mindful of our interactions with them.

Spend a few minutes petting or playing each day. Use this time as a mindful break: focus on the feel of their fur, their breathing, or the way their eyes close contentedly.
Get active with your pet. Even tossing a ball for your dog or chasing a feather toy with your cat indoors releases endorphins. Taking your pet outside can also boost social well-being, as friendly greetings with neighbors or fellow pet-lovers become a natural bonus.
Create a cozy pet ritual. Set up a special “pet corner” with a soft blanket or your pet’s favorite cushion. Curl up there with a book, tea, or just silence and your pet, much like making a little sanctuary. The routine of sitting together in a quiet space signals your brain it’s time to rest.
Reach out if you don’t have a pet. You can still enjoy animal therapy: volunteer at a local shelter or pet-sit for a friend.

Final Thoughts

This bond is a two-way street: as we care for our animals, they care for us in return. If you’ve been feeling tense or low, try pausing with a pet: take a few deep breaths while petting your cat, play fetch with your dog in the yard, take a video of your hamster exercising on it’s wheel…Science and both personal experience tell us it’s worth it.