Paws for Thought: Cats and Dogs May Help Slow Cognitive Decline, Study Finds

Could your furry friend be the key to a sharper mind in old age? A new study out of the University of Geneva suggests that owning a cat or dog may help preserve specific brain functions as we age. Researchers found that dog owners retained stronger memory skills, while cat owners showed slower decline in verbal fluency. Fish and birds, however, didn’t show the same benefits. With dementia rates on the rise globally, these findings add weight to the idea that meaningful daily interactions—especially those filled with fur and affection—could support brain health and offer a fun, heartwarming approach to healthy aging.