--- title: "The health benefits of having a pet" id: "7450" type: "post" slug: "the-health-benefits-of-having-a-pet" published_at: "2026-10-16T09:35:26+00:00" modified_at: "2026-10-16T10:43:28+00:00" url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/the-health-benefits-of-having-a-pet/" markdown_url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/the-health-benefits-of-having-a-pet.md" excerpt: "Research suggests that pet ownership may have a range of benefits for human health and wellbeing. From encouraging physical activity to providing companionship and opportunities for social connection, dogs and cats can play an important role in many people's lives." taxonomy_category: - "Health & wellness" --- [Pet Talk](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/) [Health & wellness](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/category/health-and-wellness/) The health benefits of having a pet Health & wellness # The health benefits of having a pet Written by our RSPCA Pet Insurance Team 16 Oct, 2026 - 8 min read *This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised veterinary advice. Always speak with your vet about your pet’s individual health needs. Accurate as at 16 October 2026.* Research suggests that pet ownership may have a range of benefits for human health and wellbeing. From encouraging physical activity to providing companionship and opportunities for social connection, dogs and cats can play an important role in many people’s lives. Human health is influenced by many factors, and the benefits of pet ownership can vary between individuals. Bringing a pet into your life is also a significant responsibility that requires time, commitment, and the ability to meet a dog’s or cat’s needs throughout their lifetime. So, let’s take a closer look at what the research says about the potential health benefits of having a dog or cat. **Table of contents** - [Pets may encourage us to be more active](#pets-may-encourage-us-to-be-more-active) - [Owning a pet may be good for your heart](#owning-a-pet-may-be-good-for-your-heart) - [Pets may support mental wellbeing and social connection](#pets-may-support-mental-wellbeing-and-social-connection) - [Health benefits at different stages of life](#health-benefits-at-different-stages-of-life) - [The reality of owning a pet](#the-reality-of-owning-a-pet) - [Helping your pet thrive: how pet insurance can help you look after your pet’s health](#helping-your-pet-thrive-how-pet-insurance-can-help-you-look-after-your-pets-health) ## Pets may encourage us to be more active Research suggests dog owners tend to spend more time walking and exercising outdoors, which may contribute to better physical health outcomes, including maintaining a healthy weight. Whether it’s a morning stroll around the block, a weekend adventure, or an enthusiastic game of fetch in the backyard, caring for a dog can provide opportunities for regular physical activity. And while most research into the physical health benefits of pet ownership has focused on dogs, regular play and interaction with a cat can also help keep them physically active and mentally stimulated, while encouraging you to get moving too. However, it’s worth remembering that physical activity is just one of many factors that influence human health, and experiences can vary between individuals. If you’re bringing a pet into your life, it’s important to choose one who is a good match for your lifestyle and circumstances, and to make sure you’re able to meet their needs throughout their life. If you’re not able to own a pet, there are still many ways to combine physical activity with a love of animals. Dog walking, pet sitting, volunteering, volunteering at a local shelter or rescue organisation, or spending time outdoors observing local wildlife can all be rewarding alternatives. ## Owning a pet may be good for your heart Our pets certainly know how to steal our hearts. But could they also help keep them healthy? Some research suggests pet ownership may be associated with better cardiovascular health, including a lower resting heart rate, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Studies have also found links between pet ownership and a lower risk of death from cardiovascular conditions. However, while these findings are encouraging, they don’t necessarily mean owning a pet directly improves heart health. There are plenty of other factors that influence cardiovascular health, including lifestyle, genetics, diet, and exercise. So, while your furry friend might encourage some heart-healthy habits, they’re not a substitute for looking after yourself. ## Pets may support mental wellbeing and social connection There’s something heartwarming about watching your dog enjoy a good sniff around the local park or seeing your cat stretched out on a sunny windowsill after a busy day. Moments like these are part of the reason why pets become such an important part of many people’s lives. Research suggests pets may also provide companionship, comfort, motivation, and stress relief, and may help some people maintain healthy routines. For others, owning a pet may help facilitate social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation. Activities such as walking a dog can create opportunities to meet and interact with other people, including other pet parents. However, the benefits of pet ownership can vary from person to person, and human health and wellbeing are influenced by many factors. While many people find sharing their lives with animals rewarding, pet ownership is also a significant, long-term responsibility. Pets rely on us to meet their needs throughout their lives, and there can be challenging times too, such as when a pet becomes unwell or when circumstances change and caring for them becomes more difficult. Alongside the rewards, it’s important to consider the practical, emotional, and financial responsibilities that come with caring for a pet. Of course, pet ownership isn’t the only way to enjoy spending time with animals. Volunteering at a local shelter or rescue organisation, spending time with pets who belong to your family or friends, pet sitting, or observing local wildlife can all be rewarding ways to connect. ## Health benefits at different stages of life As it turns out, the potential health benefits of pet ownership aren’t limited to one specific age group. For older people, spending time with pets has been associated with improved physical fitness, better blood pressure measures, and better overall quality of life. Some research also suggests that companion animals may help alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide social support. However, it’s important to remember that older people may also be more vulnerable to some of the risks associated with pet ownership. For example, changes in mobility, health, or personal circumstances can make it more difficult to provide care or access support when needed. For younger people, growing up around pets may have benefits too. Research suggests pets may support emotional, social, and behavioural development, helping some young people build resilience, foster empathy, and develop emotional regulation skills. The presence of companion animals has also been associated with improved learning outcomes, as animals may stimulate curiosity, reduce stress, and provide a source of non-judgemental support. Some research has also found an association between early exposure to pets and a lower likelihood of developing certain allergies later in life, although findings vary. While helping to care for a pet can be a rewarding experience for many children and young people, it’s important to remember that pet ownership is ultimately an adult responsibility. ## The reality of owning a pet As much as we’d love to say a walk with your dog or a cuddle with your cat is the secret to perfect health, it’s not quite that simple. Human health is influenced by many factors, and research into the benefits of pet ownership doesn’t always reach the same conclusions. While many studies have found positive associations, others have reported mixed results or no significant benefits. While pets can enrich our lives in many ways, they’re not a replacement for regular exercise, a balanced diet, appropriate medical care, or professional mental health support. It’s also worth remembering that bringing a pet into your life is a big commitment that comes with both rewards and challenges. Developing a close bond with a pet can bring companionship, comfort, and enjoyment, but there may also be difficult times, such as when a pet becomes unwell, when circumstances change, or when they reach the end of their life. Ultimately, the human-animal bond is a two-way relationship. By providing animals with the care they need to thrive, we can give them the life they deserve. While some people may experience health and wellbeing benefits from sharing their lives with pets, the decision to welcome a dog or cat into your family should always start with whether you can give them the care and support they need. And the potential benefits to your own health and wellbeing? Consider those a lovely bonus, rather than a guarantee. ## Helping your pet thrive: how pet insurance can help you look after your pet’s health Being a responsible pet parent means looking after your pet’s health and wellbeing, including those unexpected accidents and illnesses that can lead to vet bills. That’s where [pet insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/what-is-pet-insurance/) can lend a helping paw. By covering a portion of your pet’s eligible vet bills, pet insurance can provide much-needed financial relief during an already stressful time. And if you choose to insure your pet with [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , you can also customise your cover to suit your pet’s needs and your budget. With annual cover limits up to $35,000, benefit percentage options up to 90%, a zero excess option, and every policy contributing to the RSPCA’s [vital work](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , it’s protection with purpose. For your own pet and thousands of others across Australia. To learn more about how RSPCA Pet Insurance could support you and your pet, click [here](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance/) . Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, you can fetch a commitment-free pet insurance quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . ### **Disclaimer** As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure this cover suits your needs. **References** [1] RSPCA Australia. *What are the benefits of companion animals to human health?* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/pet-ownership/what-are-the-benefits-of-companion-animals-to-human-health](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/pet-ownership/what-are-the-benefits-of-companion-animals-to-human-health) [2] RSPCA Australia. *What do I need to know before I get a new pet?* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/choosing-a-pet/what-do-i-need-to-know-before-i-get-a-new-pet](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/choosing-a-pet/what-do-i-need-to-know-before-i-get-a-new-pet) [3] RSPCA Australia. *My cat is very active at night and keeps waking me up, what should I do?* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/cats/behaviour/my-cat-is-very-active-at-night-and-keeps-waking-me-up-what-should-i-do](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/cats/behaviour/my-cat-is-very-active-at-night-and-keeps-waking-me-up-what-should-i-do) [4] Circulation. *Pet ownership and cardiovascular risk: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association.* Available from: [https://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0b013e31829201e1](https://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0b013e31829201e1) [5] Healthdirect Australia. *Coronary heart disease*. Available from: [https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/coronary-heart-disease-and-atherosclerosis](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/coronary-heart-disease-and-atherosclerosis) [6] RSPCA Australia. *How old should a child be before they are allowed to take care of a pet?* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/choosing-a-pet/how-old-should-a-child-be-before-they-are-allowed-to-take-care-of-a-pet](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/choosing-a-pet/how-old-should-a-child-be-before-they-are-allowed-to-take-care-of-a-pet) ## FAQs ### Can having a dog help me be more active? Research suggests dog owners tend to spend more time outdoors engaging in physical activity, such as walking, which may support physical health. For many people, having a dog can provide motivation to get outside and stay active, but experiences vary between individuals. If you’re considering welcoming a dog into your household, make sure you’re able to provide the time, care, and long-term commitment required to meet their needs throughout their life, and that the dog is the right match for your lifestyle and circumstances. ### Can owning a pet support heart health? It may. Some research suggests pet ownership may be linked to healthier blood pressure and a lower resting heart rate. However, it’s important to remember that human health is influenced by many factors, including diet, exercise, genetics, and lifestyle, and pet ownership alone doesn’t guarantee good heart health. ### Can owning a cat encourage a more active lifestyle? While most of the research into the physical health benefits of pet ownership has focused on dogs, caring for a cat may also encourage activity through interactive play and engagement. Regular play and interaction with your cat can help keep them physically and mentally stimulated, while encouraging you to get moving too. However, physical activity is just one aspect of caring for a cat. If you’re considering welcoming a cat into your household, make sure you’re able to provide the time, care, and long-term commitment required to meet their needs throughout their life. It’s also important to consider whether a cat is the right match for your lifestyle, living situation, and circumstances. ### Can pets support our health and wellbeing in other ways? Potentially. Research suggests cats and dogs may provide companionship, comfort, and motivation, and may help some people maintain healthy routines. Pets may also help facilitate social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation. However, the benefits of pet ownership can vary from person to person, and human health and wellbeing are influenced by many factors. Bringing a pet into your life is a long-term commitment, so it’s important to carefully consider the responsibilities involved and whether you’re able to provide the care, time, and resources they need to thrive. ### Can pet insurance help me care for my pet? Looking after our pets means being there for them throughout everyday moments, including when the unexpected happens. That’s where [pet insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/what-is-pet-insurance/) can offer some assistance, covering a portion of eligible vet bills and taking some of the financial pressure off you during an already stressful time. If you’ve been considering insuring your pet, [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) may be worth exploring. With cover you can customise to your pet’s needs and your budget, and every policy contributing to the RSPCA’s [vital work](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , it’s protection with purpose. For your own pet and thousands of others across Australia. To learn more, visit the RSPCA Pet Insurance [website](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) or get a commitment-free quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) today. As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure this cover suits your needs. [See more](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/faqs/) ## Related blogs [Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) in cats: what cat parents need to know Oct 2026 - 8 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/feline-immunodeficiency-virus/) [Could your dog have a tooth abscess? How to spot the signs and what to do Oct 2026 - 8 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/could-your-dog-have-a-tooth-abscess/) [Grass seed-related injuries and infections in dogs: signs, treatment and prevention Sep 2026 - 7 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/grass-seed-related-injuries-and-infections/)