Oxytocin levels in cats and owners linked

A new study suggests a potential correlation between the oxytocin levels of cat owners and their pets, according to research published in the journal iScience. Japanese scientists, led by Saho Takagi, a cognitive science researcher at Kyoto University, examined the oxytocin and cortisol levels of 29 cats and their 19 owners.

Study used urine samples and Bluetooth tags

The researchers used urine samples to analyze hormonal levels and attached small Bluetooth tags to the cats' collars to track the distance between the cats and their owners over a one-month period. Participants also completed questionnaires about their emotional states in the weeks prior to the study.

Higher oxytocin linked to fewer negative emotions

People with higher oxytocin levels reported fewer symptoms of anger, confusion, anxiety, and depression. Those who spent more time near their cats felt more energy and vigor. The study found that owners with higher oxytocin levels tended to have cats with higher levels as well.

No cortisol link found between cats and owners

This association was accompanied by a decrease in negative emotions and lower cortisol levels in humans, though no such link was found between the cortisol levels of cats and their owners. The study does not establish that cats reduce the stress of their owners, as the sample size was relatively small.

Further research planned to confirm findings

Takagi suggested that the interaction of petting and being petted may increase oxytocin levels in both the owner and the cat, contributing to the bond between them. However, the study does not establish that cats reduce the stress of their owners, as the sample size was relatively small. The scientists plan to investigate hormonal variations before and after interactions to study causality more precisely.