Owning a pet is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Beyond the companionship they offer, the very act of caring for them offers its own set of rewards — from helping with depression to decreasing your risk of certain illnesses.
If you’re more of a cat person than a dog person, you’re not alone. According to the figures from the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association, 18 percent of all UK households (that’s 7.9 million) have a cat as a pet, compared to 24% (9 million) of households with a dog.
Here are some of the many reasons cats are great pets:
Cats as heart protectors
Did you know that cat ownership may reduce your risk of a heart attack? In one study, researchers looked at nearly 4,500 adults over a period of 10 years and found that those who owned a cat had a 40% lower risk of suffering a fatal heart attack than those who didn’t! Even those who used to own a cat were also found less likely to have fatal heart disease than those who had never owned one.
Cats as healers
Additional research on the health benefits of cats suggest a cat’s purr may be the source of curative treatment. The frequency and vibration of purrs may help speed up healing for broken bones and soft tissues, as well as muscle, tendon and ligament injuries. Cat purring has also been found to help treat dyspnea, a condition that makes it difficult to breathe.
Cats as counsellors
Cats make great therapists. You hear a lot about therapy dogs, but there are also therapy cats who visit hospitals, schools, nursing homes, etc., comforting people in need. There are even tales of cats helping children with autism, as they encourage social interactions.
Cats as defenders of the house
Unwanted intruders like mice, rats and even bugs are immediately dealt with by your warrior cat, who will never allow such pesky nuisances to make a home in yours.
While not all tame cats are prolific hunters, almost all will bring your attention to household pests like mice, rats and large insects. If you’re lucky, they’ll take care of the problem for you. And at the very least, they’ll alert you to the problem so you can call in the professionals.
Cats as internet sensations
It’s almost impossible to go a week without seeing a hilarious new internet meme, video or photo showing the crazy antics of these beloved creatures. Cats definitely keep the Internet interesting. In a time when so much of what we’re bombarded with online and offline is tragedy and horror, funny cat pictures or videos provide much-needed levity and a break from the more serious stuff we’re dealing with each day.
Cats as generally great
Cats are sweet souls that love us unconditionally. Cat owners are greeted by purrs and snuggles (if you pay the cat the right attention, of course!)– they are a part of the family and many can’t imagine family life without them.
When National Cat Day rolls around on the 29th October, make sure you let your cat know how much they are appreciated! And if you need help with your furry friend, check out a range of cat sitters near you on Care.com.
