Cats as therapy animals? Research findings about the possibilities

We would enjoy hearing from you.

You are probably familiar with therapy dogs that are specially trained to give comfort and emotional help to people in medical settings, schools, and care facilities. But did you know that cats might also offer the same benefits?

My guest on this episode of The Hissing Feline is Dr. Patricia Pendry, professor of Human Development in the College of Agriculture, Human and Natural Sciences at Washington State University. Her research examines human-animal interaction, including a study about cats as therapy animals. On today's show, Dr. Pendry talks about a research study she co-authored that focused on cat traits that might help with having cats in therapy situations. She also discusses what is next in research about cat therapy.