The era of pet economy: Gender difference of the pet ownersâ?? mental health with cats or dogs

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Mein-Woei Suen

Asia University, Taiwan

: Int J Ment Health Psychiatry

Abstract

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Statement of the Problem: With the rise of the pet economy, pet ownership has become an integral part of modern life, influencing the mental health of owners in diverse ways. This study investigates gender differences in the mental health impact of owning cats versus dogs. Prior research suggests that pet ownership provides emotional support, reduces stress, and enhances well-being; however, little attention has been given to how these effects vary by pet type and owner gender. Methodology and Theoretical Orientation: This study utilizes a mixed-method approach, integrating quantitative measures such as the Big Five Personality Traits, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWB), and WHO-5 Well-Being Index. The study examines (1) the relationship between pet ownership and gender-specific psychological outcomes, (2) how dog and cat ownership differentially affect mental health based on gender, and (3) whether personality traits mediate these effects. Findings: Findings indicate that female dog owners exhibit higher social engagement and emotional resilience, aligning with previous studies linking dog ownership to higher extroversion and agreeableness. In contrast, female cat owners show greater introspection but report higher levels of neuroticism. Male dog owners demonstrate lower stress levels and increase physical activity, whereas male cat owners exhibit higher emotional stability but report greater loneliness. The bidirectional influence of pet ownership on mental health suggests that gender plays a crucial role in shaping the psychological benefits and challenges associated with pet companionship. Conclusion & Significance: These results highlight the importance of considering gender-specific interventions in pet-assisted therapy and mental health support programs, particularly in the context of an evolving pet economy.

Biography

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Mein-Woei Suen has obtain PhD degree from the University of Birmingham in UK. His research interests are Social Psychology, gender stereotype influences, stereotype threat effects, stereotype boost effects, stereotype threat deduction, LGBTQ-related issues, and mental health etc. Currently, he is also the Honorary Chairman of the Taiwan Applied Psychology Association (TAPA) and the chairperson of the gender-equality education and social issues re search center (GEESIRC), Asia University in Taiwan. Since 2007 to now, he has successfully obtained several research grants from the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), in Taiwan and completed them.