Highlights
- •First randomized controlled trial of cat adoption in families of children with ASD.
- •Adoption of temperament screened shelter cat may benefit children with ASD.
- •Positive exploratory findings indicate need for study with larger sample.
Abstract
Purpose
The diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) occurs in one in 54 children and companion
animals (CA) are common in families of children with ASD. Despite evidence of CA ownership
benefits for children with ASD, little is known about cats. The purpose was to explore
the impact of shelter cat adoption by families of children with ASD.
Design and methods
This was the first randomized controlled trial of adoption of a temperament screened
cat by families of children with ASD. Families assigned to the treatment group adopted
a cat and were followed for 18 weeks. Families assigned to the control group were
followed for 18 weeks without intervention, then converted to treatment, by adopting
a cat and were followed another 18 weeks. Adopted cats were screened using the Feline
Temperament Profile to identify a calm temperament. Surveys measured children's social
skills and anxiety and parent/child cat bonding.
Results
Our study (N = 11) found cat adoption was associated with greater Empathy and less Separation
Anxiety for children with ASD, along with fewer problem behaviors including Externalizing,
Bullying and Hyperactivity/Inattention. Parents and children reported strong bonds
to the cats.
Conclusion
This exploratory study found introduction of a cat into the home may have a positive
impact on children with ASD and their parents. Based on this intial finding, future
studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.
Practice implications
If parents of children with ASD are considering cat adoption, health care providers
might consider recommending adoption of a cat screened for calm temperament.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: December 06, 2020
Accepted:
November 18,
2020
Received in revised form:
November 18,
2020
Received:
July 13,
2020
Identification
Copyright
© 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
