A recent study co-authored by Washington State University Professor Patricia Pendry reveals that while dogs have traditionally dominated the world of animal-assisted services (AAS), certain cats may also possess the traits needed to succeed as therapy animals.
The research, published in the journal Animals, was a collaboration between Pendry and researchers from Belgium. It found that therapy cats exhibit specific behavioral characteristics that could make them well-suited for AAS programs.
The team surveyed hundreds of cat owners in Belgium using a standardized behavioral assessment, identifying key behavioral differences between cats involved in AAS and other cats.
“There’s a common belief that cats aren’t cut out for this kind of work, but our study shows that some cats may thrive in these settings,” Pendry explained. “Cats chosen for AAS tend to share many of the same behavioral traits as therapy dogs, such as sociability and a willingness to engage with people.”
The study revealed that AAS cats are typically more social with both humans and other cats, more attention-seeking, and more tolerant of handling.
Expanding AAS programs to include cats could make therapy more accessible, particularly for individuals who might prefer a cat’s quiet presence over the more energetic nature of a dog.
However, Pendry cautioned that not all cats are suited for therapy work. Unlike dogs, therapy cats are not usually trained for the role; instead, certain cats naturally exhibit the personality traits needed for such work.
While some cat breeds, such as Ragdolls or Maine Coons, are often considered more sociable, the study did not focus on breed-related behavioral differences. Instead, it examined individual behavioral traits within groups of cats, rather than comparing species or breeds.
Currently, therapy cats are more common in Europe than in the U.S., where the concept has been slower to gain traction. In Belgium, where the study was conducted, therapy cats are increasingly used in AAS programs, whereas American campuses and hospitals continue to prioritize therapy dogs.
The researchers emphasize that further investigation is necessary before therapy cats can become a mainstream option. Questions remain regarding whether the required traits are innate or shaped by experience, and researchers are concerned about ensuring that therapy work doesn’t negatively affect feline welfare.
For now, therapy cats remain an underused resource in the U.S. However, with growing awareness and research, they may soon join their canine counterparts in therapy settings.
“The goal of the study is not to push cats into therapy work, but to acknowledge that some cats may genuinely enjoy these interactions and, in the right environment, can provide valuable support to those in need,” Pendry said.
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