Life with Cats: Academic Procrastination and Quality of Life among Undergraduates in Jordan

This study investigates the impact of cat guardianship on academic procrastination and quality of life among university students in Jordan. Using an experimental design, data were collected from 47 self-identified academic procrastinators. Participants adopted cats and participated in an open-structured care program over four months. Academic procrastination and quality of life were measured using validated scales at three points: pre-intervention, post-intervention, and a two-month follow-up. Results showed a significant decrease in academic procrastination and notable improvements in quality of life after the intervention. These positive effects were sustained at follow-up, with no significant differences observed between post-test and follow-up scores across quality-of-life dimensions, including mental health, social relationships, and environmental factors. The findings suggest that cat guardianship may be an effective intervention for enhancing student well-being and reducing procrastination. The study also examines cultural significance which may reinforce the intervention’s effectiveness by promoting a sense of structured responsibility among students.