Do cat videos make you happier? Scientists have discovered why this is possible

Do you often find yourself watching various cat videos for long minutes or even hours? Well, it's not surprising that you love these cute animals so much, since it is scientifically proven that these videos increase energy levels and produce happy hormones in the brain. Moreover, a study even proved that looking at these video can be used as a kind of animal therapy in a digital environment and as a stress reliever.

Jessica Gall Myrick, an assistant professor at Indiana University’s School of Media, was extremely interested in the aspect of how cat videos can gain such high viewership and popularity on the Internet. It is not surprising that these days these types of videos dominate the various areas of social media on a significant level, generating some amazing views. Thus, he believed that it was worthwhile to investigate this issue more intensively.

How do cat videos affect us?

The purpose of the study was to determine the effect on us of such animal videos that are extremely popular. Thus, he primarily examined those people who liked to watch this kind of visual material. He was also curious about the emotional state of the participants in the study, since the goal of his research was to discover some kind of difference between people who regularly entertain themselves with this kind of video and those who do not. The researcher collected data using a questionnaire through Facebook users. The test attracted almost 7,000 participants, mainly due to the fact that several very popular sites shared the questionnaire.

In the 10-minute survey, participants were asked to comment on their past and current animal husbandry habits. This exploration was necessary in order to be able to accurately define the target group who regularly consume such videos. The results showed that people’s mood and well-being were much better when they watched the videos that featured different pets. Who likes cat videos the most?

Who loves cat videos the most?

According to the head of the study, watching these videos is actually equivalent to animal therapy, as it triggers so many positive emotions in us, which prove to be unmatched compared to other videos. Furthermore, the research also showed that cat owners tend to watch this type of footage more often. Also, it was most characteristic of shy and withdrawn people that they spent a relatively long time watch these. Moreover, Professor Myrick concluded that many times these videos provide inspiration and new impetus to do the work, as well as encourage them to complete various difficult tasks.

In conclusion, if you also constantly watch cat videos whenever you have time, don’t consider it a waste of time, because this act serves your mental well-being.