6 Benefits of Owning a Cat
Cats are affectionate, sweet, and fiercely independent. They can also provide multiple benefits – to your life and to your health! Below are six benefits to owning a cat.
The simple act of petting or playing with a cat can help improve your mood. And owning a cat doesn’t cure you of anxiety or depression, it can take the edge off from some of your worst days.
Decrease Risk of Heart Disease
The calming effects of owning a cat could redcue your blood pressure. As a result, your stress levels go down, which in turn lowers your risk of getting cardiovascular disease.
Exposure to pen dander and fur results in increased resistance to allergens, decreasing your risk for allergies and asthma. Also, when you are sick and your cat offers comfort your immune system gets a boost right when it needs it.
Source of Joy
Cats offer a calming effect which can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone known for inducing feelings of love and joy. In addition, a study found that children with autism were more likely to be less anxious and calm while petting a cat.
Companionship
Although cats are thought of as being independent aloof creatures, there’s a special bond between human and feline. Owning a cat is similar to having a romantic partner.
Lower Carbon Footprint
Cats, who eat less than dogs over a lifetime, have the approximate carbon footprint of a small car. Not only is owning a cat good for your health, but it’s better for the environment, too!
