Cats are known as the “perfect pet” for so many reasons. Having a cat can improve your health by bringing joy, companionship, and love into your home. They’re also very entertaining to watch and they come with a lifetime of unconditional love.
But did you know that your cat can also improve your overall mental and physical health? Cats are great at helping people de-stress because of the many cute quirks that they tend to have.
They also help reduce pain from chronic illnesses such as arthritis and fibromyalgia by providing a warm cuddle buddy on cold days and just being there for someone who needs a friend.
All these things benefit both the owner’s physical health but also their mental health which is important especially in today’s society where everyone is always connected to technology.
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They’re Good for Your Heart
Cats are known for their ability to calm us down. They can be a great stress reliever during the day and help you sleep better at night. But did you know that they may also be good for your heart health?
Studies have shown that cat owners tend to have lower blood pressure than those who own no pets at all. Cats can also reduce cholesterol levels, which is another risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
A cat’s purr is also known to lower blood pressure and heart rate as well as release serotonin which helps promote relaxation and calmness.
Pets in general increase physical activity among elderly adults; it has been shown that owning an animal increases walking time by 40%.
They Can Ease Your Loneliness
Cats are amazing creatures who can help you cope with loneliness and depression. They provide a sense of companionship that is unparalleled to any other pet, especially when they snuggle up next to you while watching TV or reading a book.
It’s not uncommon for people to become depressed as they get older and their circle of friends dwindles. Having an adorable cat around the house can really make all the difference in lightening your mood and lifting your spirits.
They Help You Sleep Better
We have all been there. You’re laying in bed, struggling to fall asleep and your cat comes up and starts snuggling with you. The purring sound is calming, the soft fur against your skin is comforting – you finally start to feel drowsy.
This is usually how it is for me when every night as I am lying down to go to sleep. Without my cats in the room, falling asleep usually does not come easily for me.
They Help Relieve Stress and Anxiety
Are you looking for new ways to relieve stress and anxiety? Do you feel like your cat is the perfect companion?
Cats have been shown to be therapeutic, especially when it comes to lowering blood pressure. Cats also serve as an excellent distraction from negative thoughts, which can help with anxiety-related disorders.
Cats are also prone to making humans laugh with their many quirks and weird habits. Humor and laughter are the ultimate antidotes to stress and anxiety. Don’t believe me? Next time you’re feeling stressed, turn on some funny cat videos on YouTube and see if it helps.
When I am stressed out, my cats can usually sense this change in my mood, and because of that, they tend to want to cuddle more when I am stressed. Perhaps, they know that they are the secret weapon to relieving stress and anxiety and want to help calm me down. Needless to say, it works perfectly.
They Can Help You Cope with Tragedy
Cats are wonderful companions that can help us cope with tragedy. Studies have shown that petting a cat or other animal can reduce stress levels and lower blood pressure. They provide the same benefits as therapy, but without the high price tag.
I can attest to this, because every time I lose someone in my life, my cats help make me feel so much better. They lessen the pain associated with losing someone by being your crying shoulder. Cats are also cheaper than most anti-depressants.
Disclaimer: Never go off your anti-depressants without your doctor’s approval. This advice is merely my opinion and should not be considered as sound medical advice.
Final Thoughts
Is it worth it to adopt a cat? Absolutely. Cats have been shown in studies to be good for your heart, help ease loneliness and stress, they can help you sleep better (if you let them snuggle with you), and relieve grief after tragedies such as losing a loved one.
If you’ve been thinking about adopting one but have hesitated because you’re not sure how to care for them or whether it’s worth the trouble, don’t worry!
There are plenty of resources out there that can help break down all these barriers so that caring for a pet is easier for everyone involved. It’s time to stop worrying and start living – adopt a cat today!
