It may start with something as small as a wagging tail or a soft purr.

But what if the quiet presence curled at your feet—or brushing past your leg—was actually helping your brain stay stronger, longer?

New insights suggest that these everyday companions might play a bigger role in long-term cognitive health than previously imagined.

And while the details may surprise you, the science behind it is beginning to turn heads among experts in aging.



A new study published in Scientific Reports tracked cognitive changes in adults over 50 for a span of 18 years.

Researchers discovered that owning a dog or a cat was linked to a “slower decline in multiple cognitive domains.”

Dog owners showed better immediate and delayed recall, which means they were more likely to remember where they left their keys—or what they had for lunch yesterday.

Cat owners, on the other hand, showed higher verbal fluency and also had stronger delayed recall.


The same could not be said for people who had birds or fish. The data revealed “no significant association with cognitive decline” for those types of pets.

The research was conducted by Adriana Rostekova and her team from the University of Geneva’s lifespan developmental psychology group.

While birds and fish are often said to contribute positively to general well-being, the study suggests those benefits don’t appear to extend to cognitive aging.

The researchers proposed that the shorter lifespans of birds and fish may play a role.



Also read: Never lose your pet again: the tech trick every pet owner needs to know

Frequent pet loss could make it harder to form deep, emotionally beneficial bonds over time.

Another factor was noise. Bird ownership, the study noted, “may negatively affect the owner’s sleep quality due to the increased noise levels.” And poor sleep has long been linked to faster cognitive decline.

So why are dogs and cats different? The study points to several possible explanations—most notably the potential for emotional connection and social engagement.

Rostekova said, “There is also a possibility of increased social stimulation facilitated by cats and dogs, which may be linked to the slower cognitive decline experienced by their owners: an increased frequency of social interactions when accompanied by a dog—or for cats, a substitute for a social network.”

Dogs, in particular, naturally increase their owners’ exposure to social interaction.

From daily walks to brief sidewalk chats, the routine becomes a built-in opportunity to stay socially active.



Cats, while not as outwardly social, may still offer companionship and emotional grounding.

They’re considered part of a household routine, which also plays a role in mental engagement.

The study’s authors suggested that this research could shape the way we approach aging support policies.

Pet-friendly assisted living environments, increased access to veterinary care, and affordable pet insurance could all become part of future healthy aging strategies.

Since “dog and cat ownership might act as a protective factor aiding to slow down cognitive decline,” the implications are both personal and public.

The hope is that findings like these encourage broader discussions around the role of animals in mental and emotional health, especially later in life.



Also read: Thinking of adopting a pet for mental health? This woman’s experience with her cat might surprise you

And while pet ownership isn’t a fit for everyone, the benefits for those who do bond with their animals might be more profound than once believed.

Want to maximize those benefits? Here are a few simple ways to do just that:

1. Take your dog for daily walks—or create short, consistent routines for indoor cats.
2. Use your pet as a reason to connect with others. Talk to neighbors or meet new friends through local pet-related groups.
3. Challenge your mind by teaching your pet a new trick—or learn more about their behavior and needs.
4. Stick to a regular feeding, grooming, and play schedule to create structure and consistency.

Of course, it’s important to note that pet care comes with real responsibility. Health conditions, mobility, finances, and housing are all things to consider before bringing home a dog or cat.

For those who aren’t able to adopt, volunteering at animal shelters or visiting pet-owning friends may still offer emotional and social rewards.

Even a brief time spent with animals has shown potential benefits.

Read next: How adopting a senior pet could change your life in unexpected ways
Do you have a personal story of how your furry friend helped you stay active or mentally sharp? Have you noticed a difference in your memory or mood since adopting a pet? The community would love to hear your experiences—or see a photo of your brain-boosting buddy—in the comments below.