6 Resons Why You Need a Cat in Your Life
Opening the doors of your home (and your heart) to a new furry friend is always a good idea. The obvious benefit is gaining a new best friend to hang out with and care for. But research shows many other perks come from sharing your life with a kitty:
1. Your mental health will thank you
Cat owners are considered to have better psychological health compared to pet-less individuals. Cats’ constant presence in our lives can increase our ability to deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. This is especially important during a time when social distancing is so prevalent, and we spend more and more time at home. Cats, or any pets for that matter, can provide comfort during hard times and give owners a sense of purpose and fulfillment when they might need it.
2. Being a cat owner is great for your physical health
According to a US study, cat owners are less likely to die from a heart attack or other kinds of heart disease. This decreased risk appeared even in people who no longer had cats, meaning that adopting a cat can be a useful strategy to prevent cardiovascular diseases in high-risk people. Having a purring cat on your lap is also beneficial for your health. The vibrations cats create when they purr are linked to decreasing stress, shortness of breath in both humans and cats, and even strengthening your bones!
3. Cats can prevent allergies in children
Adopting a cat can be great for your kids, too! Apart from teaching children the valuable lessons of responsibility and how to care for others, having a pet as an infant can make you 66 to 77% less likely to develop allergies in the future. A study supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases shows that being exposed to cats (or dogs) during the first year of life appears to protect against not only pet allergies but also other types of common allergies such as allergy to dust mites, ragweed, and grass. Don’t worry, the benefits of having a cat in your life continue into adolescence. Turns out creating a strong bond with your kitty as a teenager results in a higher quality of life and enhanced communication with your parents and friends.
4. They are perfect for small spaces and busy lifestyles
Cats are independent beings, and they are quite compact in size. If you lead a hectic life or cannot fit a Bernese Mountain Dog in your small apartment, a feline can be the perfect choice for you. If you provide them with a clean and warm environment and plenty of toys and distractions, you will get yourself a thankful new roommate!
5. They are ideal senior companions
Older, calmer cats can be a loving, reassuring presence to older adults. Cats are pretty low maintenance and will ward off loneliness as they cuddle next to you on the couch.
6. They can make your other pets happier
So, you already have a cat or a dog. Think about the amount of time you spend out and about. Adding another furry member to the family can help diminish the feelings of loneliness and boredom your pet might feel when you are out of the house.
Getting a new cat can be quite daunting, but as we’ve revealed in this article, the benefits can outweigh the risks. Letting a cuddly fluff ball into your life can be the most gratifying decision you’ll ever make.