Want better mental health? Get a pet

Chennai: Having a pet helps boost mental health, cuts down screen time, improves sleep and reduces anxiety. Indian pet parents have recorded some of the highest rankings in all these categories in a just released global survey. According to a survey by MNC petcare company Mars and mental health firm Calm, Indian pet parents ranked among the highest globally when it came to screen-time reduction (92% compared to around 74% globally), taking regular breaks from work (93% as compared to 77% globally) and feeling more relaxed by talking to their pet (82% as compared to 77% globally). Indian pet parents also ranked highest in improved sleep quality (79% compared to 55% in the US and 43% in the UK) and 88% of Indian pet owners said that their pets help reduce overthinking — significantly higher than most Western markets. Also 76% Indian pet parents reported they feel more present and mindful because of their pets.

Said Salil Murthy, MD, Mars Petcare India, “According to this survey, 82% of pet parents globally said that talking to their pet helps them feel more relaxed while 81% pet parents globally feel calmer when their pet settles beside them. Also 76% of those surveyed said their pet encourages them to stop overthinking while 75% are more likely to go outdoors, and 74% spend less time on social media due to their pet’s influence. These are not just statistics — they reflect a transformative, under-recognized role pets play in our lives.” In fact, 79% of Indian pet owners said that their pet positively impacts their mental wellbeing. In fact, 88% Indians said pets help reduce anxiety or overthinking, offering presence without pressure and 69% said their pet has improved their social life.


Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays.

AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now