Cats have been our favorite pets for centuries. They are fun, affectionate, and keep mice at bay. But cats also have proven positive effects on our mental and physical health.
Find out what they do and how, right here!
Disclaimer All information in this text is intended to inspire and inform. If you have mental or physical problems or doubt your cat’s health, always consult a professional doctor or veterinarian.
1. Cats reduce stress When people experience stress, a cat can help.
Studies have shown that petting and cuddling a cat increases the production of oxytocin in the human body. Oxytocin is a hormone released when people cuddle, providing a sense of calm and connection. It also lowers cortisol levels in the body – the hormone released during stress.
So, if people cuddle or pet their cat, they feel better, and their body responds positively. [bold] Also happy with your cat? Pamper it with the best cat tree
2. Cats give structure to your day People who aren’t feeling well should always seek professional help, as they can best assist with problems.
However, having a cat at home can also provide some help during tough times. A cat offers love, companionship, and
– very importantly – structure. Caring for a cat is a big responsibility. But if people enjoy it and are capable of caring for the animal, it can give them a sense of fulfillment.
Various studies have shown that a cat can also reduce feelings of loneliness. It’s no surprise, as cats are affectionate, fun, and cozy – they provide a constant presence of love and attention, which can be very valuable for people who feel alone.
3. Cats naturally lower blood pressure Meditation, healthy eating, good sleep, and exercise are all things people can do to lower their blood pressure.
But cats can also contribute to better health. Studies have shown that people with cats often have lower blood pressure – petting a cat helps them relax and triggers physical responses in the body. Of course, a cat isn’t the cure for high blood pressure, but it’s nice to know that cats have such a positive effect on people’s well-being.
4. Growing up with cats can be healthy Children who grow up with cats often have a lower chance of developing allergies and asthma.
Their immune system can become stronger when exposed to various pet allergens, helping their body better combat allergies. Important to know: a cat is not a cure for allergies and asthma. So, if people want a pet, it’s always good to test everyone in the family for allergies – this prevents a lot of trouble for the family and the animal. It’s also not wise to get a pet if someone in the family has asthma!
5. Cats help you be more social There’s nothing more enjoyable than talking about cats with others, especially if they love cats too.
For people who find it difficult to make or maintain social contacts, a cat can help – it’s easy to talk about a pet with someone.
Research has also shown that older people with cats have more positive social moments than those without pets. Cats are often a fun and pleasant topic to talk about, which helps (especially older) people form new social connections. Additionally, a cat brings a lot of coziness into the home.
6. Cats help in therapy Professionals increasingly use cats to support people with emotional problems.
Cats give people a sense of safety and comfort, which can help alleviate physical symptoms.
Cats are also increasingly present in hospitals and nursing homes as therapy animals. Their presence helps patients relax and feel less afraid. Cats provide love and joy, which can contribute to a faster recovery process.
Some interesting facts and figures
- Petting a cat can reduce the stress hormone cortisol by up to 20% and simultaneously increase the production of the cuddle hormone oxytocin (source:Harvard Health Publishing).
- Cat owners generally have lower blood pressure than those without pets, which can contribute to better health (source: American Heart Association).
- Research shows that 65% of older people with cats regularly have positive social interactions, compared to 45% of older people without pets (source: Gerontologist Journal).
- Cats are used as therapy animals in more than 40% of American hospitals to aid patient recovery (source: American Hospital Association).
- 80% of people with a cat say their pet helps them feel less lonely (source: Human Animal Bond Research Institute).
- A study found that cat owners have a 40% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease (source: Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology).
Cats have long played an important role in human well-being: they reduce stress, and loneliness, and can contribute to better health. Of course, this isn’t the sole reason to get a cat – you get a cat because you love animals and can take good care of them. But it’s a nice bonus that such a loving animal also helps you feel better!
After reading this article, do you want a cat as a pet? Make sure to get informed by a veterinarian, check if you’re not allergic, calculate the cost of owning a cat, and see if you can
afford it. And definitely check out an animal shelter first, as many lovely cats are waiting for a loving owner!