The Surprising Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Owning a Cat
A feline friend may do more for you than you think.
When you adopt a cat, you aren’t just getting a cuddly new friend. You’re also making a choice that could ultimately benefit your health. As it turns out, there are notable health benefits of cat ownership. Researchers have found that people who own cats have a lower risk of certain health conditions. Polling from the American Psychiatric Association has also found that 86% of cat owners say their pet has a positive impact on their mental health.
Experts say that having a cat is also a way to get in touch with your playful side and develop your communication skills. For children, owning a cat can also teach responsibility. Allowing your kids and teens to do things like feed the cat, scoop the litter box, and engage in active play with the cat can teach them about the importance of a routine and allow them to build empathy for animals.
Ahead, learn more about the surprising health benefits of cat ownership. If you’re looking for more info to help you find the cat that’s right for your home, read up on the sweet cat breeds that make great family pets and the cat breeds that are most likely to get along with dogs.
A cat may make you healthier...
People who share their lives with cats have been shown to have better cardiovascular health than those who don't. Having a pet can also reduce blood pressure. In short, don't stop exercising, but your cat may give your health a boost.
….and happier!
Research suggests that having a cat can reduce loneliness and stress. Just petting a cat for 10 minutes (if the cat wants that!) has been shown to lower cortisol levels in students.
Even watching cats seems to make people feel more cheerful and energetic. Cats are entertaining and often hilarious, but also there’s nothing like the calming, soothing presence of a purring or sleeping kitty.
RELATED: The Mental Health Benefits of Cats
You'll rarely be bored.
Watching a cat explore is like living in a nature documentary.
Watching a cat can let you become "more observant of changes in a cat's behavior in relation to what is happening in their environment," says Lili Chin, author and illustrator of Kitty Language (awarded a Muse Medallion by the Cat Writer’s Association).
Cats are clever communicators.
"My cat may slow-blink at me to show affection and acknowledgment, but if they then look away or do not lean into my hand, this tells me they don't want to be touched right now, and I respect that," says Chin. "Cats have a remarkable talent for shaping us to be responsive."
Cats are excellent companions.
No matter what is going on in your life, your cat will be there. Cats can also make us kinder — taking care of another living thing tends to have that effect! To get to know your cat’s needs and personality, study them closely.
"We learn what a cat is feeling by paying attention to their body language," says Chin. “You start to understand what is normal and what isn't. These are the first steps to building a trusting relationship."
Cats love to play.
A cat's energy may add pep to your own step. When playing with your cat, try to find ways to prioritize what Chin calls “species-specific needs,” meaning you should provide your cat with opportunities to watch, stalk, pounce, catch and use their teeth and claws.
Offering your cat appropriate places to climb and scratch also reduces the likelihood that they will pursue those activities using your favorite furniture.
RELATED: Best Cat Toys for Bored Kitties
20 Fascinating Facts About Cats
Do Cats Repel Spiders? Experts Answer
How Cats Can Boost Your Mental Health
The Best Features of the Litter-Robot Cat Cabinet
