Having a cat as a pet could potentially double a person’s risk of schizophrenia-related disorders, according to a recent study.

This idea that cat ownership could be linked to schizophrenia risk was proposed in a 1995 study, with exposure to a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii suggested as a cause. But the research so far has put forth mixed conclusions.

A study in the US, which involved 354 psychology students, didn’t find a connection between owning a cat and schizotypy scores. However, those who had received a cat bite had higher scores when compared to those who had not.

Another study, which included people with and without mental disorders, discovered a connection between cat bites and higher scores on tests measuring particular psychological experiences. But they suggested other pathogens such as Pasteurella multocida may be responsible instead.

The researchers agree that better and broader research is needed before we can make any firm interpretations.

“In conclusion, our review provides support for an association between cat ownership and schizophrenia-related disorders,”