Scientists have long known that friendly interactions trigger the release of oxytocin in both and their owners, strengthening the connection between them. However, until recently, little was known about how this chemistry applies to cats, noted Laura Elin Pigott, a researcher in neuroscience and neurorehabilitation at London South Bank University.
The Chemistry of Love Isn’t Just for Humans
have a reputation for being quite independent creatures, which means they express their affection in subtler ways. However, their owners often report experiencing the same tender feelings, as well as companionship and stress relief, as dog owners do. And research is increasingly confirming this, says Ms. Pigott.
For instance, in 2021, Japanese scientists reported that short sessions of petting cats increased oxytocin levels in many owners.
During this study, women interacted with their cats for several minutes while researchers measured the participants’ levels. The results showed that friendly contact (petting the cat, speaking in a gentle tone) was associated with increased oxytocin levels in the participants’ saliva compared to a period of calm relaxation without the cat.
Numerous scientific studies have also confirmed that petting a purring cat is soothing. This effect is not solely due to their soft fur; the act of petting and the sound of purring can trigger the release of oxytocin in the brain.
In this context, Laura Elin Pigott recalled a recent study that showed when owners pet, hug, or rock their cats, their oxytocin levels increase. Moreover, the cat’s oxytocin levels also rise, provided that the interaction is not forced upon the animal.
This study also touched on the important topic of communication with cats that cannot be described as affectionate: those that exhibit aloof or anxious reactions to their owner’s affection. It was found that in such cats, oxytocin levels decrease after forced hugs.
Unlike dogs, cats do not require prolonged eye contact to establish a connection. Instead, they use more subtle signals. The most well-known of these is slow blinking, which serves as a cat’s version of a smile and conveys a message of safety and trust.
Meanwhile, the low-frequency purring of cats is associated not only with healing effects for the cats themselves but also for humans. These sounds help lower heart rate and . Oxytocin contributes to these effects, reported Science Alert.
Daily interactions with a cat, supported by small releases of oxytocin, can serve as a buffer against anxiety and depression.
Do Cats Love Us Less Than Dogs?
Indeed, many studies have demonstrated a stronger oxytocin response during interactions between humans and dogs. For example, in a 2016 experiment, scientists measured oxytocin levels in pets and their owners before and after a 10-minute play session. In dogs, this level increased by an average of 57 percent after play, while in cats, it only rose by 12%.
Dogs were for constant interaction with humans. They were inherently programmed to seek eye contact, affection, and approval from us—behaviors that stimulate oxytocin production in both parties.
Cats, on the other hand, evolved from solitary hunters who did not require special social contacts for survival. Therefore, they do not exhibit “oxytocin behavior” as frequently or consistently, explained Ms. Pigott. A cat’s trust does not come automatically; it must be earned.
And when that chemical bond finally forms between a person and a cat, it is reinforced by oxytocin—the magical chemical responsible for our warmest feelings toward parents, loved ones, and friends.
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