Peptic ulcer disease and exposure to domestic pets.

OBJECTIVES: This study assessed whether an association exists between household pets and peptic ulcer disease. METHODS: Canadian adults (n = 15,779) were asked about cats or dogs in their household and about history of peptic ulcer disease. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between pet ownership and a history of peptic ulcer disease, after adjustment for sociodemographic differences. RESULTS: No relationship was observed between report of household pets and a history of peptic ulcer disease (adjusted odds ratio = 1.14, 95% confidence interval = 0.95, 1.36). CONCLUSIONS: In a large sample of Canadian adults, no association was observed between pet ownership and a history of peptic ulcer disease.