The Impact of Cat Fostering on Older Adult Well-Being and Loneliness: A Feasibility Study

• Published in: The journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences Psychological sciences and social sciences, 2024-01, Vol.79 (1)
• Main Authors: Sanderson, Sherry L, Emerson, Kerstin G, Scott, Donald W, Vidrine, Maureen, Hartzell, Diane L, Keys, Deborah A
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1079-5014; 1758-5368; 1758-5368
• DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbad140

This feasibility study explored the impact of fostering a shelter cat on loneliness and well-being in older adults living alone without a pet. The study also examined the effect of cat fostering on older adults' interest in cat adoption when perceived barriers to adoption were removed. A total of 29 adults (age ≥60) were paired with a cat and asked to foster for a minimum of 4 months (with an option to adopt). Participants completed surveys before placement with cats, with a follow-up at 1 and 4 months postplacement and 12 months if they adopted their cat. The survey included scales of loneliness, physical and mental health, self-efficacy, positive and negative affect, and comfort from a companion animal. Scores were compared across time using a Multivariable Linear Mixed Model. A total of 23 of 29 (79.3%) participants remained in the study for at least 4 months, and a majority (95.7%) adopted their cat. Differences in marginal means (adjusted for physical health) showed a significant improvement in loneliness from baseline to 4 months (p = .029). A similar 4-month improvement that approached statistical significance (adjusted p = .079) was observed for mental health. No other scales showed statistically significant changes across time. Fostering a shelter cat with the option for adoption may be an effective solution for alleviating loneliness and improving mental health in older adults. Interest in adopting foster cats was high when perceived barriers to adoption were removed.