Forcing cats to endure unwanted attention has been found to cause them a great deal of stress – among the little ones, anyway.

Forcing cats to endure unwanted attention has been found to cause them a great deal of stress – among the little ones, anyway.

A recent study found that while younger felines are being stroked, their nerves may be getting frayed.

In addition - and contrary to common belief – the researchers asserted that juvenile kitties are calmest when they’re living among other cats.

This conclusion was reached through the study of stress hormones in felines, aged two years or under. The levels were measured while they were both with and away from humans and other cats in varying scenarios.

Cats that were left alone to bear the burden of their owner’s love had it the worst.

When more furry friends entered the picture, they were a bit calmer.

The chillest cats of all were the ones who were inherently less social, but that had a more tolerant feline around to protect them from being handled.

Maximum health was reported only among those who were successful at completely avoiding being touched.

According to one of the researchers, the best way to be kind to one’s cat is to allow them to be independent and choose their own course of action.