Most people prefer to de-stress with pets over partners, new research finds

A majority of pet owners would prefer to spend time with their fluffy friends when they are stressed rather than with their partners, according to new research.

A global survey of 30,000 pet owners found that 65 per cent of people would prefer to de-stress in the company of their dog, cat or other household pet – significantly more than those who said their partners (37 per cent), family (24 per cent), children (22 per cent) or friends (21 per cent).

More than half of pet owners – 59 per cent – said their pets provided company without the need to talk during stressful times, while nearly a quarter said their pet provided a space for them to express worries or concerns without expecting a response.

But for most pet owners – 90 per cent of them – the simple presence of their pet is relaxing, offering a sense of calm that doesn’t require words or actions.

The findings, commissioned by pet care business Mars and mental health company Calm, also revealed how pets can reinforce other good mental health habits, such as encouraging us to step away from screens, spend more time outdoors and take a break from work and chores.

Almost eight in 10 said their pet reminds them to pause and take a break from work, chores or tasks, while 77 per cent said their pet encourages them to take a break away from screens.

The heartwarming results make it no surprise that nine in 10 Aussies surveyed said their pet had positively impacted their mental wellbeing.

“While we love our pets, we often don’t realise how much they give back,” Dr Tammie King, a specialist in human-animal interaction and senior research manager at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute said.

“Reframing your pet’s daily ‘interruptions’ as loving reminders to pause, breathe and be present can be a powerful wellness tool.

“Research shows that touch-based pet interactions can boost oxytocin levels in humans.

“The findings of this survey will help more people reflect on and acknowledge the little wellbeing moments pets nudge us towards on a daily basis.”

The survey marks the launch of a partnership between Mars – which produces pet care brands including Pedigree, Royal Canin and Whiskas – and meditation app Calm.

The businesses have joined forces to shine a light on how our furry friends can boost our mental health through a pet-inspired content series.

The content is designed to help users relax, reflect and recharge.

In addition to the content series, Mars and Calm have launched a social media campaign to find stories from pet owners of their pets, to explore how they help our mental health.

The stories will become inspiration for Calm content later in the year.

“We know that small, intentional moments of calm can have a big impact on our overall wellbeing, and our pets have an incredible way of guiding us there,” Dr Chris Mosunic, chief clinical officer at Calm said.

“A quick dog walk or cat cuddle at our desk when they stroll in front of the screen, can provide a simple moment to reset and recharge.

“We’re proud to partner with Mars and bring this data to the forefront to highlight the potential of our bond with pets and help more people discover the wonderful wellbeing benefits our relationship with pets can bring.”

For more information on the Mars x Calm partnership, visit: kinship.com/petsandwellbeing