Pop culture rhetoric doesn't shine favorably on cat people, but new science might change some of those negative perceptions.
Research into a parasite commonly carried by cats (or found in raw steak) shows it increases extroversion and makes humans less conscientious overall.
The parasite, called toxoplasma gondii, "manipulates the behavior of its animal host by increasing the concentration of dopamine and by changing levels of certain hormones," said a study in the European Journal of Personality.
While a parasite might not be the best reason to buy a cat, simply owning a cat means you're more likely to be outgoing and less likely to be neurotic. Congratulations! via Jezebel
