Can pets impact children’s mental health? A recent study published in the World Journal of Pediatrics says it may be possible.

The children’s mental health study followed nearly 1,900 families throughout Spain to determine if—and how—having a pet in the home affects a child’s mental and emotional well-being. For those like me who assume any pet would have a positive impact, you’re about to be shockingly mistaken.

Which Pets Affect Kids’ Mental Health?

The study divided participants into several categories based on the species of pet they had at home. These included dogs, cats, birds, and a single category for other pets. Although most species had a small, yet positive impact on their kids, according to the study, one common pet species was linked to worse mental health in kids ages 4-5.

It’s a cat! Pet cats may be cute, clever, and entertaining, but this study suggests they’re also stealthy and not very cuddly. The study also found that kids aged 4-5 who have a cat in the house are actually more likely to have poor mental health by the time they’re 7-8 years old.

Related: California Toddler Tries Making Friends With ‘Kitty’ Outside—Then Mom Sees the Truth

So what gives? Kids and cats tend to get along swimmingly, and just because one study says otherwise doesn’t mean it’s true. Plenty of kids and their kitties are inseparable!

Pet Parents’ Reactions To the News

Pet parents are extremely conflicted about this study, and no one can blame them. On one hand, it’s inspiring to know that most animals work wonders for a kid’s mental health, but on the other hand, cats can’t be that bad, can they?

“Correlation doesn’t equal causation. Show me the double-blind study, ” Crystal Smith Beachamp noticed. I like the way she thinks! Even the scientists behind the study admitted that some families may adopt a cat for their low-maintenance needs, which means less work and more love for a child who may be going through a difficult time.

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Meanwhile, “I hope they did not spend a lot of money on that study. I did a study that showed that anyone who ate pickles between the ages of four and five would turn into a werewolf later in life.”

All jokes aside, this study is a reminder to be true to yourself when adopting a pet. Consider what you’re drawn to, what you like, and who you need in your life, because there’s a perfect pet in the world for everyone out there.

This story was originally published by PetHelpful on Sep 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.