At this point, the science of pets is well-known. Petting a dog or cuddling a cat increases oxytocin in your brain, the hormone associated with love, belonging, and connection. Just a few minutes of petting a dog can calm and soothe you, lower blood pressure, and decrease stress.

But why should dogs and cats get all the love? There are lots of gentle, loving animals out there that love cuddles and offer plenty of mental and physical health benefits when you cozy up to them. One animal, in particular, is getting its moment on social media right now.

Why cuddling cows is a mental health secret weapon

No disrespect to dogs and cats, but the humble cow has a lot to offer as a cuddle buddy.

Cats are highly independent and temperamental. While the gentle vibrations of their purrs can be incredibly soothing, they can just as easily decide that cuddling time is over and end the session abruptly. That’s if they even agree to it in the first place.

Dogs, on the other hand, are often........

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