8 Awesome Health Benefits That Come with Owning a Cat

When you think of things that you can do to improve your health, you probably consider joining the gym, taking yoga classes, improving your diet, and cutting down on take-outs. What you probably don’t think about is owning a pet; more specifically, owning a cat. However, in recent years, there have been a range of studies by health professionals and researchers that suggest cat ownership can be effective for improving your health and well-being. In addition to being some of the most entertaining little creatures on earth, here are some of the main ways that your health can benefit from owning (or being owned by, should we say!) a cat.

#1. Improved Heart Health

According to a study carried out at the University of Minnesota, people who own cats are around 30-40% less likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease than those who do not. Because of this, owning a cat could even reduce your risk of heart attack; studies at the State University of New York at Buffalo suggest that having a cat can lead to lower blood pressure. Since petting your cat can be very calming and relaxing, those who have a feline friend at home are less likely to suffer from high blood pressure and related health problems. In addition, a Canadian study in 2006 suggested that owning a cat was just as effective as taking medication for high cholesterol.

#2. Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Whether you’re thinking of adopting a fur-baby from your local animal rescue center or are considering purchasing a pedigree Bengal cat, there are many psychological benefits associated with cat ownership. One of these is reduced stress levels; caring for an animal and receiving their unconditional love back in return can be one of the best tonics for when you’re feeling stressed out. In addition, it’s difficult to remain focused on your anxiety and stress when you have a cat to distract you with their funny antics. If your cat will come and sit next to you or on your lap, simply listening to them purr as you give them some attention can help to improve your mood and reduce your worries.

#3. Beat Depression and Loneliness

Cats are great companions, so it’s no surprise that owning one can help people who suffer from depression, or are starting to feel depressed due to being lonely. If you live alone, a cat can offer you somebody to talk to – sometimes they’ll even talk back with special meows that are reserved only for their precious human. The bond between a human and a cat can be unbreakable; cats remember your kindness and love towards them and return it in their own special way, even if that’s bringing a half chewed up mouse to your doorstep – it’s the thought that counts!

#4. Reduced Risk of Stroke

The prospect of suffering from a stroke is a scary one. If you are concerned about preventing a stroke happening to you, then you are probably doing things such as eating well and exercising regularly. However, cat ownership can also help! According to a study carried out at Minnesota University, cat owners can reduce their risk of suffering a stroke by one-third.

#5. Help with Autism

If you are on the autism spectrum or have a child who is, then owning a cat could help. Autism is typically characterized by difficulties with communication and social skills; autistic people tend to have difficulties communicating with others in the same ways that non-autistic people do. There have been cases where having a cat has been very therapeutic for both children and adults with autism; cats don’t mind if you’re struggling to talk to them or don’t feel like interacting with others and they won’t judge you if you say anything that humans might take offence to. All of this can help people with autism to improve their confidence and communication skills.

#6. Help Prevent Childhood Asthma

In addition to a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes along with better mental health, there is some evidence to suggest that owning a cat can help to reduce the risk of developing asthma in childhood. If you have children, owning a cat and exposing your child to them from as young an age as possible can help to boost their immune system leading to a lower risk of developing several respiratory problems, including asthma. However, bear in mind that if your children already suffer from such health issues, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor before you add a cat to your family.

#7.  Detect Hidden Health Issues

There have been many stories about cats who’ve been able to detect health issues in their owners long before they begin to show any symptoms. In addition, people who suffer from epilepsy or other types of seizures may find that owning a cat can help; many cats have a ‘sixth sense’ about this type of thing and are able to detect a seizure before it happens and give you a warning.

#8. Better Sleep

If you suffer from problems with sleeping, then you might want to consider getting a cat. Along with being soft and cuddly to sleep with in your bed, cats also make great alarm clocks – it’s difficult to oversleep when you have a small, loudly purring creature sitting on your chest wondering why the heck their food bowl is still empty at 7AM. So, it’s no surprise that after a while, cat ownership means that you’ll get into a better daily routine; being literally forced out of bed in the morning to reassure your cat that they’re not going to starve can lead to you sleeping better at night. If you suffer from insomnia, you may have been told about ‘sleep hygiene’ by your doctor or therapist. Let your cat help you with this!

Owning a cat isn’t all about being able to make funny videos to put on YouTube, although that can be a massive bonus. Inviting a furry feline friend into your life can significantly improve your health and well-being.