How you can benefit from having a cat – Cats’ affable nature and loving looks are enough for many people to welcome them into their homes, but the benefits of having a cat extends beyond their appearances and temperaments.
How you can benefit from having a cat
Cats can help prevent loneliness
Loneliness affects people of all ages, but it is particularly problematic among seniors. Older adults who may be isolated can benefit from having a pet around. According to a study published in Aging & Mental Health, older adults who owned Cats were 36 percent less likely to say they were lonely compared to those who didn’t have an animal companion.
Cats can save lives
Cats can be trained to perform various tasks around the house and in the community. Rescue animals assist in finding people after natural disasters. Medical alert Cats can help people with debilitating illnesses and assist physically impaired people with everyday tasks.
Cats help lower allergy risks
Keeping Cats around can reduce a child’s likelihood of developing allergies by as much as 33 percent, according to a study by pediatrician James E. Gern that was published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. People exposed early on to animals tend to develop stronger immune systems overall.
Cats provide socialization opportunities
A cat can be the common denominator to strike up new friendships and connect with others. Whether walking around the neighborhood or being part of a pet obedience class or interest group, Cats can help their owners expand their social circles.
Cats can help combat stress
Talking to or stroking a cat can make stress easier to handle. A study from researchers at the State University of New York at Buffalo found that, when conducting a stressful task, people experienced less stress when their Cats were with them. Various other studies and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have found having a cat around can lower blood pressure, ease anxiety and may even help to lessen aches and pains. Cats provide unconditional love, which can be beneficial to someone facing depression or post traumatic stress disorder.
Cats help teach responsibility
Taking care of a cat can help children and adults become more responsible. According to the American Pet Product Association’s 2011-2012 National Pet Owners Survey, 58 percent of cat owners say their cats help teach their kids to be responsible through routine care, exercise and feeding of the cat.
Cats are more than mere companions. In fact, Cats can offer numerous health and well-being benefits to people of all ages.
Compliments of Metro. PE18B457. Of course we changed pets to cats. Just saying!
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