FELINOTERAPIJOS VYSTYMOSI PRIELAIDOS LIETUVOJE: TĖVŲ GRĮŽTAMOJO RYŠIO DĖL FELINOTERAPIJOS TAIKYMO VAIKAMS ANALIZĖ

Animal-assisted therapy involves the use of various animals; however, dogs are the most commonly used, while cat-assisted therapy (felinotherapy) remains a relatively new and under-explored field. Felinotherapy is considered a complementary method that supports conventional treatment approaches, and may have a positive impact on children’s mental health by enhancing emotional well-being, social skills and the child-animal bond, particularly in work with autistic children. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of this therapy. The aim of this article is to present the first results of pilot felinotherapy sessions conducted in Lithuania. The study involved 12 children of different ages with various emotional and behavioural difficulties. Data were collected through the analysis of parental feedback after the therapy, using a questionnaire consisting of open-ended and closed questions about the child’s condition before, during and after the therapy, as well as observed changes and overall evaluation of the therapy. In summary, based on parental feedback following cat-assisted therapy, this intervention has a positive impact on children experiencing various behavioural and emotional difficulties. Parents noted that after the therapy, their children experienced reduced anxiety, anger and tension, and began to interact more. According to the parents’ responses, this therapy fosters self-control skills and reduces social isolation. Cat-assisted therapy stands out as a gentle, child-friendly approach that helps children relax and engage more easily in the therapeutic process. However, due to the limited sample size, these results cannot be broadly generalised. Felinotherapy is a promising but under-researched area of animal-assisted therapy. Further systematic and comprehensive scientific research is necessary to substantiate its effectiveness.