A new global survey of over 30,000 pet owners, found that the majority of pet owners (58%) prefer to spend time with their pet when feeling stressed – more than those who say their partners (32%), family (23%), or even children or friends (both 18%). In fact, 83% of people surveyed believe their pet has positively impacted their mental wellbeing.
Survey data reveals:
- Fifty-eight percent of pet owners reveal they prefer to spend time with their pets when feeling stressed. Putting pets ahead of humans (partners, family, children or friends.)
- A new global survey of over 30,000 pet owners uncovers the many ways pet cats and dogs impact our daily wellbeing
- From being the go-to companion in a moment of stress to nudging people to take more breaks, pets are quietly helping us be more zen
- Pets are even encouraging us to take breaks from activities that can fuel our stress – from smartphone scrolling, chores, work and other tasks
- And while many describe the silent support that they value, 77% find talking to their pets relaxing
- The study was commissioned by Mars, the leading pet care business, and Calm, a leading mental health company to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month in the US and Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK.
This global survey highlights the powerful ways our pets improve our mental health and wellbeing. From encouraging us to switch off in our day-to-day with breaks from screens, work and chores, to offering silent comfort when words feel too much, the findings paint a striking picture of how pets are helping millions of people around the world find peace in an always-on world.
Pets: the silent wellbeing guides always by our side
Sometimes, it’s not what they do – it’s just that they are there. While we love our pets, we often don’t realize how much they give back. Reframing your pet’s daily ‘interruptions’ as loving reminders to pause, breathe and be present can be a powerful wellness tool. Research shows that touch-based pet interactions can boost oxytocin levels in humans.
It may just be a look, wag or a boop: the survey also reveals how our pets’ behaviors give us daily nudges towards better wellbeing habits:
- Stepping away from the daily grind: Almost eight in 10 (78%) say their pet reminds them to pause and take a break from work, chores or tasks, with 50% saying this happens daily – a gentle reminder to stop, breathe and reset
- Calming the mind: 73% of owners say their pet encourages them to stop overthinking or worrying – helping them feel calmer and more centred
- Time in the great outdoors: 73% of pet owners say their pet encourages them to spend time outside, turning walks with a pet into wellbeing
- Even screens take a backseat when pets are around: 77% say their pet encourages them to take a break away from screens – and for half (50%) it’s a daily reminder to unplug, a vital counter to constant scrolling and digital burnout
Study: The research was conducted by YouGov Plc on behalf of Mars. Total sample size was 31299 adults across 20 markets (UK: 2507, Brazil: 2502; Canada: 1347; Germany: 1584; Indonesia: 2510; India: 1001; Mexico: 1567; Malaysia: 1036; Poland: 1349; US: 3748; China: 1054: Belgium: 1084; Australia: 1525; New Zealand: 1066; Spain: 1322; Netherlands: 1074; France: 1526; Denmark: 1093; Sweden: 1070; Italy: 1334). Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th February – 31st March 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted at an individual country level to be representative of all dog and cat owners (aged 18+) in the respective markets.