Does Companion Animal attachment affect fertility intention among Young Chinese women? A mediation study

This study used the theory of planned behaviour to examine the relationships between companion animal attachment, fertility intention, psychological capital, and parenting sense of competence among 551 young Chinese women. The results indicated that companion animal attachment positively influenced the respondents’ fertility intention. For unmarried women and cat caretakers, psychological capital enhanced fertility intention. For married women and dog caretakers, parenting sense of competence played a more significant role in enhancing fertility intention. The study also found that companion animal attachment indirectly affected fertility intention through the sequential mediation of psychological capital and parenting competence. This study provides a framework for understanding how companion animal attachment impacts fertility intention and offers insights for future research and policy making. For instance, its findings can guide government efforts to promote women’s fertility intention through courses and activities focused on companion animal attachment.