Pet ownership and animal therapies bring more benefit than harm to patients with malignancies, an Australian study suggests.

In a literature review, researchers from the Royal Adelaide Hospital attempted to answer questions commonly asked by patients, including whether pets could cause cancer or potentially compromise their health while receiving chemotherapy.

The investigators found extensive evidence showing that animal-assisted therapies can alleviate distress, normalise the hospital environment and help distract from pain and worry.

Authors Dr Mei Mei Chan, an Adelaide GP, and cancer research fellow Dr Gonzalo Tapia Rico say the findings are reassuring given that most Australian households have a pet.