REVEALED: Hilarious animal pics | Rare Historical Photos

The dopamine release associated with looking at animal photos stems from a theory known as the baby schema effect. It also happens when we look at baby photos, all triggered by visual cues that come from a biological response. 

The theory explains that the strong attraction and feelings of attachment stem from our innate urge to care for and protect animals, much like the way we care for young humans.

These visual cues include specific facial features, such as large eyes and foreheads, as well as chubby cheeks and other rounded features. According to social psychologist Dr. Oriana Aragón, it is also a natural survival response. 

“Our survival depends on us taking care of our young. It’s part of our human species to respond to these features,” she told CNN in a 2019 interview.

Apart from the dopamine rush, adorable photos, such as images of animals being funny, also improve short-term cognitive function. As University of Victoria neuroscientist Dr. Olav Krigolson explains, the cute photo elicits a powerful emotional response, which in turn promotes brain activity. 

The urge to gush over something cute is what the Japanese refer to as Kawaii. Apart from dopamine, it also promotes the release of oxytocin, otherwise known as the “cuddle chemical.” However, there’s a caveat: these images should catch you by surprise to induce the same strong reactions. 

"If you are expecting to see kittens all the time, it won't trigger the reward system,” Dr. Krigolson stated.

Now, it’s your turn, dear readers. Which of these photos caught your attention the most? What about it was so eye-catching for you? And did it, at the very least, boost your mood? Let us know in the comments!