Ever wondered why your day is so much better after you spend a few minutes watching that squee live video of a baby snow leopard?

Wonder no more, friend. The answer is clear: looking at pictures of adorably cute baby animals increases productivity and releases endorphins into the brain.

In other words, save the chocolate calories and gaze at cuddly newborn animal babies instead.

According to a January article in the New York Times, scientists liken the cute factor to the sweet tooth: everyone responds to cute animals just like we all have sweet receptors on our tongues—but some folks like a lot more candy than others.

In Japan, they refer to this cute effect as “kawaii,” and according to a study published by Hiroshima University, even male truck drivers are prone to it, boasting Hello Kitty figurines on their dashboards.

Cute Marketing Works, Too

Cute is equally appealing in the marketing world. Start cataloguing the number of cute cars on the road (think VW’s Beetle and BMW’s Mini Cooper). Even the slew of “mini” products—like iPod and iPad minis, mini candy bars, mini memory sticks, tiny soda cans, and earbuds—have become more and more popular. And remember the mass-market appeal of Gizmo from Gremlins, or the Ewoks of Star Wars fame. According to the New York Times article, “Whatever needs pitching, cute can help.”

So take slightly under 7 minutes of your day and check out these unbelievably cute baby animals. If you don’t have 7 minutes, here are four of our favorites:

Now, here’s a question: what would happen if you hugged a cute baby animal?! We’re pretty sure your brain would melt.

Okay. One more. In the name of productivity, may we present animal hugs? (You’re welcome).

→ Heather Osteen, Media Admin Coordinator