Cats' preference for subtle social interactions may make them more appealing to autistic children, a new study has found. To celebrate National Cat Day, we take a look at how the traits that cause some to describe cats as aloof might also make them good pets for children with autism.
“Cats glance, look away, then glance back again briefly, and what we see is the child then actively seeking attention from the cat,” says Hausberger. “That could be stimulating and developing social skills that are often considered lacking in autistic people.”
Children with autism have trouble interacting with humans, or even socially friendly animals like dogs sometimes. However, since cats avoid eye-contact and don't hold long gazes (unlike dogs) they make be preferred by someone who has autism.
Research shows that autistic people prefer interactions with animals over humans and that 80% of autistic children have participated in pet therapy. This, the speaker asserts, gives context as to why pet contact in relation to autism is an important topic (1:55).
Dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs are not just cute companions, they're also great for helping autistic children with their social and emotional development.
Research shows a sharp drop in anxiety and social stress in autistic children when playing with animals, compared to engaging in other activities. When questioning parents of children with autism, 94% of dog owners said their child had bonded strongly with the animal.
Many people with autism and other social challenges have connections with animals. Whether the animals are real or even “stuffed”, animals bring a sense of peace and calmness to a child or even adult on the spectrum.
Many autistic children and adults have a special bond with dogs. Through our experience of training dogs for autistic children we've seen the amazing difference dogs can make.
Autistic children love their parents
You may have to learn to see how your child expresses affection and not take it personally if your child doesn't show affection in the way that typical children do.
Autistic people often have a much stronger fight-or-flight response and we tend to feel emotions, including fear, much more strongly than other people and so are more likely to be instinctively frightened by a large dog.
Empathy is a hard thing for individuals with autism to grasp, and having a cat helps them build empathy for other creatures. Another quality that improves for autistic individuals when a kitty is introduced into their lives is the ability to take that empathy and attempt to comfort others in distress.
According to studies, very affectionate breeds of cats are good companions for children who have autism. Some of those include Burmese, Ragdoll, Birman and Abyssinian. Experts suggest adopting a young cat or kitten for your child if you decide a cat would be the best pet for your family.
Best Cats For Autism
The ideal cat is outgoing, friendly and not fearful. Breeds known for these traits include the Ragdoll, Birman and Burmese. For the best results, start with a young kitten so they learn to like the unpredictable behaviour of children.
A relatively new symbol for autism, the butterfly has been a suggested replacement for the puzzle piece as it inspires thoughts of change and symbolizes the beauty of diversity and continued development.
Pets can provide a familiar source of comfort and have a calming effect on the children in day to day situations and especially so in social settings. Pets also help children with autism develop a positive sense of self. As mentioned previously, pets are non-judgmental, showing unconditional love and affection.
Research has shown that about 30 percent of those diagnosed with autism have a co-existing clinical phobia, fearing dogs, and other small animals.
A child with ASD can be challenging—they may be restless; have trouble sleeping, eating or speaking; experience seizures; or have meltdowns born of frustration or overstimulation. Expectations for a “normal” life may need to be adjusted.
Many children with autism, even those with high-functioning autism, have difficulty learning to engage in everyday human interaction. They may avoid interactions or eye contact or even resist parental attention, hugs, or cuddling.
Children with autism seek sensory input in a myriad of ways. Some enjoy the physical touch of loved ones through hugs, tickles, cuddles, and kisses. While on the other hand, others find more enjoyment in the sensory input from the physical environment in which we live.
Additionally, Sonic's wide range of enemies and obstacles keeps the games interesting without overstimulating the senses with too much change or uncertainty. This makes Sonic a fun way to relax, enjoy some entertainment, and practice motor skills at one's own pace.
posted: Nov. 09, 2022. For kids with autism, an accompanying anxiety disorder isn't atypical. In fact, it's been reported that up to a half of all kids with autism meet the criteria for at least one anxiety disorder, which includes phobias.
Summary. While many people with autism may appear to lack empathy and sympathy, it is not the case for all people with autism. For those who struggle with displaying appropriate empathetic responses, the reasons may relate more to social communication issues than a lack of underlying emotional response.
Puzzle Solving
Many autistic people, even those who are non-verbal, have a tremendous knack for solving jigsaws and similar puzzles. This is a popular hobby—and one you can share in your home alone, with a group of friends, or even in a club setting.
Cats are lovable and cute, but what most people don't know is that these furry animals can help children with autism improve their social skills. Cats bond with the children by providing affection and attention which promotes healthy relationships.