The special relationship between pets and their humans

As we celebrate National Pet Day, it's the perfect time to reflect on why having a pet is not just joyful but also incredibly beneficial for our health and wellbeing. Pet ownership goes beyond companionship; it can have significant positive effects for both the animals and their human companions.  

Research has shown a myriad of health benefits associated with having a furry or feathered friend at home. In this article, we'll explore some of these benefits and delve into how pets contribute to a healthier and happier life for everyone involved. 

One Health - One Welfare: It is increasingly being recognised that the health and welfare of animals and humans are closely linked, with both pets and their human carers gaining positive outcomes from the special relationship they share.  

 Benefits for humans 

Physical health

Interacting with pets like dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, horses, fish, birds, reptiles, and amphibians can significantly benefit human health, both physically and mentally. 

For instance, dog owners tend to be more physically active due to activities like walking, leading to better overall health measures such as lower body mass index.

Similarly, owning a horse can improve physical fitness through the dynamic interaction between rider and horse, engaging different muscle groups and requiring energy for care activities.

Moreover, owning pets, especially dogs, has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, including lower resting heart rates, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and reduced risk of cardiovascular problems. While it's essential to note that these associations may not imply causation, as healthier individuals may choose to have pets, the benefits are notable. 

CAT-TASTIC

The benefits of cat ownership are widely recognised, particularly in New Zealand, where 44% of households own at least one cat. These benefits include social enablement, as cats can provide companionship and improve the quality of life for the elderly by offering emotional support. Cats also serve society as working animals, aiding in tasks such as pest control on farms and providing occupational therapy.

While cats can have negative impacts on ecosystems, they also play a role in controlling pest species like rodents and rabbits, thus benefiting the environment by preventing excessive damage caused by these pests. A wider debate about cat management is one for another article, but we can conclude from research that for humans and cats alike – our company can be mutually beneficial. 

Mental health

Pets also offer significant mental health benefits by providing companionship, comfort, and routine. They can help reduce depression and anxiety, promote a sense of calm through activities like petting, and encourage daily routines for those struggling with motivation. For many, pets serve as reminders to care for themselves, nudging them to stay active and engaged.  

Importantly, ownership in the traditional sense is not necessary to promote human wellbeing. Interactions with ‘shared companion animals’ (like horses at riding schools, camps, or at ‘riding for the disabled’ programs) have been shown to promote dramatic physical and emotional benefits for the people spending time with these animals.  

Additionally, pets play a crucial role in combating isolation and loneliness, especially for older adults or those living alone. Walking a dog can lead to social interactions with other dog owners, fostering connections and reducing feelings of isolation. Being outdoors with pets, particularly dogs and horses, also exposes individuals to nature, which is known to positively impact mental wellbeing. 

Living longer?

Owning a pet could even help you live longer! One study with over 400 participants found that dog owners had better survival rates after 12 months compared to non-dog owners. Additionally, research indicates that patients undergoing therapy with dogs experience reduced pain scores and quicker recovery. 

Positive impacts of animal interaction on childrens’ learning 

Studies have suggested potential benefits for children with autism, developmental disorders, or those who have experienced abuse. Dogs have been shown to improve communication skills in children with developmental delays and increase environmental awareness. Additionally, horseback riding has been linked to improved behavior ratings in autistic children. Animal-assisted therapy has also been found to reduce traumatic symptoms in children who have experienced abuse. 

Pet ownership appears to support learning in two specific areas: developing empathy and emotional skills, as well as performing well in school-related responsibilities. 

 Benefits for animals 

Here are some key ways in which pets experience health benefits from being cared for by their human companions: 

• Physical exercise: Dogs, in particular, benefit from regular exercise such as walking, running, and playing fetch. This physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles and joints, and improves cardiovascular health. Cats also benefit from play sessions that keep them active and agile. 

• Mental stimulation: Interaction with humans provides pets with mental stimulation, preventing boredom and behavioral issues. Activities like training, puzzle toys, and socialising with other pets or humans contribute to their mental wellbeing. 

• Emotional bonding: The bond formed between pets and their owners promotes emotional stability for the animals. Pets thrive on companionship and affection, which boosts their overall happiness and reduces stress levels. 

• Healthcare monitoring: Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care ensure that pets receive necessary medical attention. This proactive approach to healthcare helps detect and address potential health issues early on. 

• Nutritional needs: Responsible pet ownership includes providing balanced nutrition tailored to the specific needs of each pet. Proper diet and access to fresh water contribute to their overall health and vitality. 

• Safe environment: Pets kept in a safe and secure environment, free from hazards and dangers, experience a higher quality of life. This includes protection from extreme weather conditions, toxic substances, and potential accidents. 

• Social interaction: Pets that interact with other animals or humans in a positive environment develop social skills and confidence. This can be beneficial, especially for animals like dogs that thrive on socialisation. 

• Preventing abandonment: Responsible pet ownership includes commitment to the long-term care of the animal. This reduces the likelihood of pets being abandoned or surrendered, ensuring they have a stable and loving home throughout their lives. 

So there we have it! On this National Pet Day let’s ponder the mutually beneficial relationship that enhances the lives of both humans and animals.  Through this interconnectedness we can provide a holistic approach to caring for animals, addressing their physical, mental, and emotional needs and in turn, get many of our own needs met also. 

Cats and calories – how cooler months ahead means watching their waistlines

Pet ownership comes with a myriad of responsibilities, from ensuring their well-being to providing them with a loving home. In New Zealand, we love our cat companions – with 41% of the population owning at least one feline pet. But are we keeping a close enough eye on their weight?  

When the cooler months hit, our cats can sometimes prefer to keep closer to home and stay warm, just like us. This means we are moving less and need to watch what we eat – only our cats rely on us to do that for them.  

With one in four New Zealand cats classified as overweight or obese, there is a need to better understand the factors influencing these trends.  

Nutrition plays a crucial role in cat welfare, influencing their overall health, disease susceptibility, and longevity. Obesity is linked to various feline health issues like osteoarthritis and diabetes. Global trends show a concerning rise in cat obesity, mirrored in NZ. In 1993, 26% of NZ cats were overweight or obese, rising to 63% in 2007. 

A 2019 study identified two key factors contributing to obesity in companion cats in NZ – firstly owner misperception of their cats' body condition, and secondly, feeding them a varied diet, complicating calorie control.  A healthy weight for your animal is key to them having a Good Life, so it’s critical you keep an eye on their dietary habits. 

What cat owners can do  

Understanding cat obesity requires recognising the signs and taking appropriate action. But this is sometimes easier said than done. Many cat owners struggle to accurately assess their pets' body condition, often underestimating their weight.  

What you can do: 

• Talk to your veterinary professional about your animal’s weight and get advice on their diet – firstly understanding where their body condition is 

• Ensure there is consistency in their diet so calorie control is easier to manage 

• Be careful of treats – and in particular, educate any children interacting with them on how important it is not to overfeed cats 

• Get creative with ways to play with your cat and get them moving! Stimulating their body and mind is a great way to burn up excess energy. 

Need visuals on what is an ideal weight? The WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee have a great Body Condition Score sheet with visuals to assess the ideal weight for a feline companion. 

Click the link above to see this PDF online

What lies ahead? 

Moving forward, we are prioritising future research initiatives and educational activities. One big thing to tackle is the gap between owners’ and vets’ perception of cats’ body condition scoring (BCS). Plus, there is a need to understand the correlations between activity levels, dietary patterns, and BCS perception. 

Finally, further investigation into guidelines for maintaining a balanced diet in cats is essential, given the prevalent practice of offering cats a variety of foods and treats. Veterinary professionals and pet store personnel hold significant potential in disseminating this information, as well as signage in the supermarket aisles, particularly to households with children who may be unknowingly feeding more food and treats to their animal via the children.  

As we creep closer to winter, it's the perfect time to prioritise your cat’s weight management to ensure they lead a Good Life. Take action now to monitor their diet and activity levels, setting the stage for a happier and healthier winter season for your beloved feline companions. 

More on the 2019 Study 

The 2019 study, conducted from January 2019 to March 2019, surveyed residents aged 18 years and above to gather insights into the feeding habits and owner-related risk factors contributing to feline obesity. Among the key findings, it was revealed that 65.5% of respondents owned cats, with female, rural, or households with children being more likely to have feline companions. 

Diving deeper into feeding practices, the survey uncovered that a significant portion of cat owners relied on biscuits from supermarkets (63%) and wet food (57%) as primary dietary sources. Additionally, approximately 45% opted for specialized pet shop or veterinary clinic foods, while 31% incorporated raw meat into their cat's diet. This variety in feeding habits poses challenges in estimating appropriate caloric intake, potentially leading to excess weight gain in feline companions. 

Furthermore, the study highlighted discrepancies in owners' perceptions of their cat's body condition, with nearly 30% disagreeing with the correct body condition statement. This underscores the importance of education and awareness campaigns to empower  

These findings underscore the critical need for further research and interventions to address feline obesity in New Zealand. By understanding the behavioural patterns of pet owners and identifying key risk factors, we can pave the way for innovative approaches to promote healthy weight management and enhance the overall well-being of our feline companions.  

 *The Diets of Companion Cats in Aotearoa New Zealand: Identification of Obesity Risk Factors (squarespace.com)  

Equine Welfare: Understanding horse emotions

Expert blog: Professor Nat Waran 

The field of Animal Welfare Science took a big step forward with the unveiling of the 'Brambell Report' in the UK in 1965. This report, along with the establishment of the UK Farm Animal Welfare Council and the inception of the 'Five Freedoms,' marked the birth of a new era in animal welfare. Professor Brambell emphasised the importance of understanding animal ethology and acknowledging the emotional experiences of animals in assessing their welfare. 

Fast forward to today, and the conversation surrounding animal welfare has evolved significantly. Alongside scientific developments, there's a growing public concern regarding the treatment and use of animals, including horses. While horses hold a unique position between pets and production animals, their welfare often receives less attention, especially in recreational and sporting contexts. 

Horse welfare under the spotlight 

In recent years, increased public awareness and access to information, thanks to the internet and social media, have placed horse welfare under closer scrutiny. There's a rising expectation for equine sports and activities to prioritise the well-being of horses, ensuring they lead fulfilling lives. 

Understanding equine emotions poses a significant challenge. While horse owners often attribute emotions to their animals, these interpretations can be subjective and anthropomorphic (described or thought of as having a human form or human attributes). Misreading or ignoring a horse's emotional state can have detrimental effects on both the horse and the human involved. 

The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) has emphasised the importance of a "happy equine athlete," but determining a horse's happiness is complex. Absence of certain behaviors, like tail swishing or teeth grinding, is not sufficient evidence of a positive emotional state. Measuring and interpreting animal emotions requires robust, evidence-based methods, which is particularly challenging given that animals cannot self-report their feelings. 

Pairing observation with science 

While horse owner observations are valuable, they come with limitations. Owners may struggle to remain objective due to their emotional attachment and vested interests. Objective assessments of equine quality of life demand evidence-based methodologies that consider both positive and negative emotional states. 

Developing such methodologies involves exploring horses' preferences and behavioral expressions under various circumstances. Behavioral tests and qualitative assessments offer promising avenues for understanding equine emotions and well-being. However, funding for equine behavioral research remains a challenge, with horses often being a low priority compared to other animals. 

Despite these challenges, there's a collective aspiration to provide horses with a good life. Recognising and rewarding practices that prioritise positive emotional states in horses could transform training and competition across disciplines, ultimately benefiting both horses and humans alike. As we continue to unlock the secrets of equine welfare, the journey towards ensuring horses lead fulfilling lives remains ongoing. 

At Companion Animals New Zealand, we’re excited to lead more initiatives and research about this subject as part of our A Good Life for Animals Centre. Our activity includes leading the development of research to discover indicators of equine emotion and develop effective human behaviour change approaches, as well as delivering education opportunities via conference and presentations. Some examples include: 

• Collaborating with two international teams: 

• developing robust indicators of positive emotions in horses with support from the Hong Kong Jockey Club, and 

• Working with the Swedish Research Council for Sustainable Development (FORMAS) on ‘How to facilitate Human Behaviour Change regarding equine welfare' 

• Taking part in a new research collaboration with a team in Brazil to use AI to develop improved ability to recognise signs of positive and negative emotions in horses when they are being ridden.  

• Driving the change via involvement with International Federations responsible for equine welfare – Chairing the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission and producing a report proposing A Good Life for Horses 

• Organising the international Society for Equitation Science Conference in NZ -with the theme of A Good Life for Horses 

• Chairing a new Eurogroup for Animal Welfare –Policy Development Committee to produce a White paper – a comprehensive document describing equine welfare needs for a Good Life for all horses. 

Today, the discourse on animal welfare concerning horses, has expanded significantly and we're excited to spearhead initiatives and research endeavors in New Zealand and with organisation overseas aimed at advancing equine welfare. 

Professor Nat Waran BSc (Hons), PhD (Cantab)

Director - A Good Life for Animals Centre