According to a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Queensland, Australia, owning a pet cat may be associated with a higher risk of developing schizophrenia. The study, which conducted a meta-analysis of 17 research studies published over a span of 44 years, found that individuals exposed to cats before the age of 25 had approximately twice the odds of developing schizophrenia compared to those who never owned a pet cat.

The researchers suggest that the increased risk may be due to a parasite known as Toxoplasma gondii, or T. gondii, which is commonly found in pet cats. This parasite can enter the central nervous system and affect neurotransmitters in the brain, potentially leading to personality changes, psychotic symptoms, and psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia.

The meta-analysis included research from 11 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. While the findings indicate a potential association between cat ownership and schizophrenia risk, some experts are calling for more high-quality studies to better understand the link.

Not all studies included in the review supported the conclusion. One US-based study, which analyzed 354 students, found no significant association between cat ownership and scores on a schizotypy scale. However, within the subgroup of individuals who had been bitten by a cat, higher scores on the scale were observed, suggesting a potential connection.

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is estimated that approximately 1% of the global population suffers from schizophrenia, with around 2 million cases in the US alone. The cause of schizophrenia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic factors, abnormalities in brain chemistry, and possible viral infections and immune disorders.

Symptoms of schizophrenia typically emerge between the ages of 16 and 30, though rare cases have been observed in children. The symptoms can be divided into three categories: positive, negative, and cognitive. Positive symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorders. Negative symptoms involve a reduction in emotions, pleasure, and the ability to initiate and sustain activities. Cognitive symptoms impact memory, attention, and decision-making abilities.

While the study contributes important insights into the potential relationship between pet cats and schizophrenia, some experts caution against drawing definitive conclusions solely based on the findings. It is essential for further research to be conducted to establish a more comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms and potential risk factors associated with schizophrenia.

Dr. Sanil Rege, a psychiatrist based in Melbourne, shared his skepticism about the findings, highlighting the use of case-control studies in the research, which are known for potentially yielding spurious associations. This calls for additional studies with different methods to strengthen the evidence.

As pet ownership continues to grow in popularity worldwide, it is crucial for pet owners to stay informed about the potential risks and benefits associated with their furry companions. However, it is important to note that the study does not suggest that owning a pet cat directly causes schizophrenia, but rather highlights a potential association that requires further investigation.