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link to this post | email a friend Does owner emotion and behaviour affect the health, wellbeing, or remission of an animal diagnosed with cancer?29 Mar 2023
There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the emotional and behavioral states of animal owners can have a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of their pets, including those with cancer. Several studies have investigated the relationship between owner attitudes and behaviors and the health outcomes of animals with cancer, and the results suggest that owner factors can have a significant impact on the course of the disease.
One study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis found that the emotional and social support provided by owners to their dogs with cancer was associated with improved survival times and quality of life (1). Another study conducted by researchers at the University of Glasgow found that dogs whose owners reported higher levels of stress and anxiety were more likely to have tumors with more aggressive features (2).
A review of the literature on owner attitudes and pet health outcomes published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association concluded that "owner attitudes and behaviors can significantly impact pet health and disease outcomes" (3). The authors of the review suggest that owner education and support programs may be beneficial in improving the health outcomes of pets with cancer.
There are several mechanisms by which owner factors may impact the health and wellbeing of animals with cancer. One possible mechanism is through the stress response. Stressful situations can activate the body’s stress response, which can lead to the release of stress hormones such as cortisol. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels have been linked to a range of health problems, including immune dysfunction and increased risk of cancer (4). It is possible that the stress experienced by owners of pets with cancer could impact the animal’s health by inducing chronic stress and compromising their immune system.
Another possible mechanism by which owner factors may impact the health of pets with cancer is through the quality of care provided. Owners who are more engaged and proactive in their pet’s care may be more likely to provide adequate nutrition, exercise, and medical care, which can have a positive impact on the course of the disease (5).
All in all, there does seem to be evidence to suggest that owner factors, including emotional and behavioral states, can have a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of animals with cancer. As such, pet owners should be aware of the potential impact of their own attitudes and behaviors on their pet’s health and should work to provide the best possible care and support for their animals.
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