Cats beat out their canine counterparts when it comes to preventing loneliness and providing important social and emotional support for men with AIDS, according to a recent study by researchers in UC Davis' School of Veterinary Medicine.

Through a survey of male pet owners with AIDS, animal behaviorist and sociologist Lynette Hart and colleagues found that cats did a better job of evoking affection, making their owners feel needed and serving as a source of stability.

"Much of the pleasure of dog ownership is associated with physical activities like taking walks or traveling, which can be too physically demanding for some people with AIDS," Hart said. "It may well be that cats provide similar comfort and companionship, with less effort, and they can be kept entirely indoors."

The survey is based on the responses of 60 male pet owners with AIDS, who replied to a questionnaire sent to 500 clients of Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS), a San Francisco community organization that provides pet-care assistance.

"Survey responses suggest that cats complement, rather than replace, support provided by relationships with friends and family," Hart added. This study builds on a growing body of research indicating that companion animals offer people strong social and psychological support that in some instances also translates into overall health benefits.

Emotional support is of particular concern for AIDS patients, who may be dealing with shortened life expectancy, social stigma, and diminishing social and financial resources. For example, previous research indicates that HIV-positive men who are frequently depressed are at higher risk of developing clinical AIDS.