It is always said that there is a special link between a human and its dog: science, in fact, has shown that there are solid chemical bases behind this statement. On the other hand, there is much less than what is created between a human and its cat: felines are considered more independent animals that show affection only when they want them.
The reality, however, is very different: even the link between man and cat can be intense, to bring tangible benefits in terms of stress reduction. The protagonist hormone of this idyll is called Osssocin, a key element of a series of studies that in recent years have clarified the relationship between man and cat: the last one has come out this year.
The love hormone. Oxytocin is also known as “love hormone”, and plays a fundamental role also in human relationships: during positive social interactions its levels rise, and its presence in the blood suppresses another hormone, cortisol, also known as “stress hormone”. In short, it is a natural relaxant, which is produced not only when we interact with other human beings but also with dogs. And what about the cat?
It also works with the cat. The latest studies on the subject, like the one mentioned above and this from 2021, report all the same conclusion: the positive interactions between man and cat triggered the release of oxytocin in both. It happens when we caress it, but also when we hear it do the melts: there are studies that show that contact with a cat that has “turned on the engine” can lower blood pressure, and even soothe pain.
There is one though. Not all men’s contacts have the same effect, and not all cats are equally willing to be touched. In general, the rule is that a contact started by the cat (or in any case an unformed interaction: it is also worth approaching and proposing cuddles that are accepted willingly) stimulates the production of oxytocin in both sides. If, on the other hand, the contact is forced, the cat does not appreciate, to the point that in some cases not only is the oxytocin produced, but the blood levels of the one already present decrease.
A trick. So not all cats are the same: those sure of themselves and their relationship with humans manage to “exploit” the interactions with us to reduce their stress and get better.
An anxious or shy cat, on the other hand, is more difficult to benefit from an interaction. The best way to make them feel at ease, says science, is to squeeze their eyes slowly, the feline equivalent of a reassuring smile. It is the first step to conquer the trust of a shy cat: pampering and melting will come.
