You’re probably already aware of how good being around your cat makes you feel, especially when he’s cuddled up on your lap purring away, so the fact that he’s good for your health should come as no surprise!
There have been a number of scientific studies conducted that report cat owners visit the doctor less, have a reduced risk of heart disease, and many more amazing things, so let’s look at the reasons your cat is good for your health.
Prevent loneliness
Even though he can’t talk to you, not in human language anyway, your cat gives you companionship and support when you’re on your own. Think about it, you don’t always need to have a two-way conversation with another person to make you feel better if you’re having a hard time, sometimes the unconditional love and affection that your cat provides can be all the medicine you need.
Increase your fitness
As a responsible pet parent, you’ll want to make sure that your cat gets plenty of exercise, particularly if he’s an indoor cat, and while he’s keeping fit, you’ll be getting the benefit too! Make sure you play lots of energetic and interactive games with him, like running around with a feather on a stick toy for him to chase, and you’ll be bonding with him, having fun and also getting regular exercise.
Lower your blood pressure and reduce stress
Think about the last time you had a really bad day, but when you had some one-on-one time with your cat, petting and stroking, you felt much better, didn’t you? Studies have shown that the calming action of rhythmically stroking your pet actually lowers your blood pressure.
Increase your resistance to allergies
If you’re slightly allergic to animal dander, being around a cat day-in day-out will help you to build up a tolerance. It’s also been proven that children who grow up around cats don’t just get the obvious benefits of having a furry friend – they’re also less likely to grow up with asthma and allergies.
Improve your general mood and mental health
If we consider many of the benefits already listed above, such as regular exercise, companionship and stress relief, it’s easy to see why our cats help us to be generally happier, more relaxed and more able to cope with the stresses and strains of everyday life.
Think how much happier and healthier the world would be if everyone shared their life with a cat. Spread the word, and let’s reduce the number of cats who are currently living in shelters!
What health benefits have you experienced as a result of living with a cat?
