Is There A Link Between Cat Ownership and Schizophrenia?

Berfin Ceren Meray
Onedio Member
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In a groundbreaking revelation reported by Independent, Australian researchers conducted an analysis of 17 studies spanning 44 years. The researchers concluded that there is a significant association between owning a cat and schizophrenia. This finding sheds light on a previously unexplored connection, raising intriguing questions about the interplay between feline companionship and mental health. Join us as we delve into the details of this extensive study and explore the potential implications of the link between cat ownership and schizophrenia.

The first studies on the potential connection between cat ownership and schizophrenia were conducted in 1995. The hypothesis suggested a possible link with the "Toxoplasma gondii" parasite found in cats. However, this parasite could not establish definitive evidence for the proposed relationship.

In Australia, at the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, a team led by psychiatrist John McGrath sought to clarify this issue.

Australian researchers analyzed 17 studies published over 44 years from 11 different countries.

The results of the analysis and research were published in Schizophrenia Bulletin, a peer-reviewed journal by Oxford University Press.

The published article noted a finding that individuals exposed to cats had approximately twice the likelihood of developing schizophrenia.

Although the studies support the finding, a concrete cause-and-effect relationship between owning a cat and an increased risk of schizophrenia could not be identified.

Psychiatrist John McGrath suggests that larger-scale research is needed to unravel this cause-and-effect relationship.

The article published by Australian researchers not only supports the relationship between cat ownership and schizophrenia-related disorders but also issues a caution, stating,

'Our review supports the relationship between cat ownership and schizophrenia-related disorders. However, there is a need for broader and higher-quality studies to better understand the adoption of cats in the context of mental disorders.'