Pets and the Nervous System: How the Connection Works

Pets are not just cute — they are truly beneficial for the nervous system.

Have you noticed how just five minutes with a cat or a dog makes your breathing calmer, your heart a little softer, and your thoughts quieter? This is not just a feeling: real biochemical changes happen in such contact with a pet.

How does it work?

• Lowering cortisol — the stress hormone:Just 10 minutes of interaction with a dog can significantly reduce cortisol levels in students. Stroking a dog reduces cortisol within just 5–20 minutes.

• Increasing oxytocin — the bonding hormone:During interaction with a pet (stroking, eye contact), both humans and animals experience a rise in oxytocin. This is especially noticeable when you simply look into a dog’s eyes — oxytocin spikes in both, strengthening the bond and mutual attachment.

What happens in the psyche during contact with a pet?

1. Calmness — reduced cortisol helps relieve anxiety.

2. Connection — oxytocin enhances the sense of safety, trust, and emotional stability.

3. Self-regulation — gentle touches and contact signal to our nervous system: “Everything is okay, I am safe.”

What is recommended?

• Pet your animal when you feel anxious or tired. It works faster than you think.

• Notice the little reactions: how a cat purrs, how a dog wags its tail, the warmth of its fur under your hand.

It’s important to remember: being with animals is not just “play.” It is a bodily practice of restoration.

If you want to explore more deeply how to create such safe states through body and attention, my individual sessions are exactly about that. Message me if you’d like to try.