Quick take
- Pets offer routine, touch and companionship – powerful mood lifters
- Short play bursts and gentle walks can lower stress and boost calm
- Training and enrichment help anxious pets and anxious humans alike
- Boundaries matter – protect your sleep and downtime to avoid burnout
- Feeling overwhelmed? Call your GP or a helpline – this guide is general info
Why pets help us feel better
Did you know that being around pets can improve your health? Research shows that patting a pet can reduce anxiety and caring for an animal adds structure to your day – feeds, walks, play – which can steady your mood. Gentle touch and eye contact often help you feel calmer, while shared activities like training or playtime build confidence and connection. Pets also get you moving, outside or on the lounge-room floor, which supports mental wellbeing. It's win win!
Everyday habits that lift mood
Make a small ritual
A morning feed, a short sniffari, a cuddle on the couch – reliable routines help you and your pet feel safe and settled.
Play with purpose
Two to five minutes of fetch, feather wand, or scent games can reset a wobbly day. Keep it short, fun and upbeat.
Try calm cues
Teach simple cues like sit, settle, or place. Slow training with soft rewards builds focus for pets and a sense of mastery for you.
Move the body, ease the mind
Easy walks, puzzle feeders or hide-and-seek at home add gentle exercise and enrichment – great for stress and sleep.
Protect rest time
Create a cosy wind-down: dim lights, water topped up, a chew or lick mat, then lights out. Good sleep helps everyone.
When a pet is not a fix-all
Pets are wonderful company, but they are not a replacement for professional care. If you are struggling with your mental health, chat to your GP or a qualified mental health professional. In a crisis, call Triple Zero (000) or Lifeline on 13 11 14. This article is general information only.
Final thoughts
Pets nudge us toward the good stuff – routine, movement, connection and care. With a few small habits and kind boundaries, you can nourish your mental wellbeing while giving your furry mate a happy, stable life.
Cover for life’s little wobbles
Life can toss the odd curveball, even on good days. With Buddy Pet Insurance, you can stress less about the unexpected and focus on the walks, the purrs and the belly rubs. See what cover could suit your furry mate: get a quote today.
FAQsFrequently Asked Questions about pets and mental wellbeing
Still have questions about how being a pet parent can improve your mood? We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions other people asked when deciding whether a cat or dog may be suitable for them.
Can a pet really improve my mood?
Yes – for many people, daily routine, light exercise and affectionate contact with a pet can support calmer, brighter days. Results vary, so notice what feels good for you and your animal.
What should I do on tough days when I can’t do a big walk?
Go tiny. Five minutes of gentle play, a sniffy stroll to the corner, or a short training game still counts. Keep it achievable and kind.
I’m worried I’ll rely on my pet for all my support. Is that okay?
Pets are brilliant companions, but they work best alongside human support. Keep in touch with friends and family, and speak to your GP if you need extra help.
My pet has anxiety – will that make mine worse?
It can if you feel stretched. Simple structure helps: consistent routines, calm training, safe spaces and short enrichment. If worry persists, a vet or qualified behaviour professional can guide you.
I work long hours. Can I still get the benefits?
Absolutely. Aim for short, high-quality moments – a morning ritual, a puzzle feeder before you leave, and a relaxed play session at night. Batch-prep toys and treats on Sundays to make weekdays easier.
21 Nov 2025