Spoiler Alert – I never thought I was a cat person. I love dogs, and I only own a cat because my family, over the years, brought them into the house. That was certainly the case with Lazarus, a kitten that my son rescued from certain death when it was trapped in a drain pipe (therefore the name!). Lazarus is a kind and grateful cat who loves humans. This included me as well, which I only realised when my kids left the house, and I separated from my wife.
This morning, when applying for a new job, I received a rejection, which stunned and emotionally hurt me. Soon, I became quite annoyed with Lazarus, who kept meowing and purring to be close to me. Then, I remembered a friend telling me about the healing powers of cats and their ability to sense that their human companion needs help. “What a hogwash!” I thought at the time, but today, I got curious. Here is the gist:
Introduction
Owning a pet, particularly a cat, has been associated with various physical, emotional, and psychological benefits. Cats, with their gentle purring and independent yet affectionate nature, provide companionship that can lead to numerous health benefits.
Stress Reduction
One of the most well-documented benefits of owning a cat is stress reduction. Interacting with a cat can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers. A study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine found that pet owners, including those with cats, exhibited lower stress levels and had a lower increase in heart rate and blood pressure in response to stress compared to non-pet owners (Allen et al., 2002). This calming effect can be attributed to the act of petting a cat, which promotes relaxation and reduces the production of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.
Cats also provide an opportunity for mindfulness, which is the practice of being present in the moment. The rhythmic sound of a cat’s purr and the gentle tactile sensation of stroking its fur can help individuals focus on the present, diverting their minds from worries and stressors. A study conducted by the University of Sussex found that the frequency of a cat’s purr, ranging from 25 to 150 Hz, can promote healing in bones and tissues, reduce pain, and alleviate stress (Weaver et al., 2017).
Cardiovascular Health
Owning a cat may also have positive effects on cardiovascular health. Research has shown that cat owners have a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. A study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology analyzed data from over 4,000 participants and found that cat owners had a 30% lower risk of dying from a heart attack compared to non-cat owners (Qureshi et al., 2009).
The mechanisms behind these cardiovascular benefits are believed to be linked to the stress-reducing effects of cat ownership. Chronic stress is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and the calming influence of cats can help mitigate this risk. Additionally, the companionship provided by cats may encourage regular physical activity, such as playing with or caring for the pet, which can further contribute to heart health.
Emotional Well-being
Cats can have a profound impact on their owners’ emotional well-being. The presence of a cat can alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression, providing a sense of purpose and responsibility. A study published in the journal Anthrozoös found that cat owners reported higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction compared to non-pet owners (Wells, 2009).
The bond between a cat and its owner can be a source of unconditional love and support. Cats are known for their ability to provide nonjudgmental companionship, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing emotional distress or mental health challenges. The act of caring for a cat, such as feeding and grooming, can also foster a sense of routine and stability, promoting emotional resilience.
Social Support
Cats can serve as a valuable source of social support, particularly for individuals who live alone or have limited social interactions. The presence of a cat can reduce feelings of isolation and provide a sense of belonging. A study conducted by the University of Missouri-Columbia found that pet ownership, including cat ownership, can increase social interactions and help individuals build social networks (McNicholas & Collis, 2000).
Furthermore, cats can act as social facilitators, encouraging interactions between their owners and other people. Cat owners often share their experiences and stories about their pets, which can lead to the formation of social connections and friendships. This social support network can contribute to improved mental health and overall well-being.
Therapeutic Benefits
In addition to the general health benefits of cat ownership, cats have been incorporated into therapeutic settings to assist individuals with various health conditions. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) involves the use of animals to support the treatment of physical and mental health issues. Cats have been utilized in AAT programs for individuals with autism, dementia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
For individuals with autism, interacting with a cat can improve social skills and reduce anxiety. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that children with autism who interacted with therapy cats showed increased social behaviors and reduced anxiety levels (Grandgeorge et al., 2020). The presence of a cat can provide comfort and a non-threatening social partner for individuals with autism, promoting positive social interactions.
In dementia care, cats have been used to provide companionship and reduce agitation in patients. Robotic cats, designed to mimic the appearance and behavior of real cats, have also been utilized in dementia care settings to provide comfort and reduce feelings of loneliness. A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that interactions with robotic cats led to increased engagement and reduced agitation in individuals with dementia (Robinson et al., 2020).
Bottomline
Owning a loving cat can have profound healing properties, benefiting physical, emotional, and psychological health. The stress-reducing effects of cat ownership, coupled with the positive impact on cardiovascular health, emotional well-being, and social support, highlight the value of feline companionship. Cats provide a source of unconditional love and nonjudgmental support, promoting a sense of purpose and belonging. As research continues to explore the therapeutic benefits of cats, it is clear that these furry companions offer more than just affection—they contribute to the overall health and well-being of their owners.
Maybe I am slowly coming around to admitting my love to Lazarus 😉
References
- Allen, K., Shykoff, B. E., & Izzo, J. L. (2002). Pet ownership, but not ACE inhibitor therapy, blunts home blood pressure responses to mental stress. Hypertension, 38(4), 815-820.
- Grandgeorge, M., Tordjman, S., Lazartigues, A., Lemonnier, E., Deleau, M., & Hausberger, M. (2020). Does pet arrival trigger prosocial behaviours in individuals with autism? A longitudinal study. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7, 553-560.
- McNicholas, J., & Collis, G. M. (2000). Dogs as catalysts for social interactions: Robustness of the effect. British Journal of Psychology, 91(1), 61-70.
- Qureshi, A. I., Memon, M. Z., Vazquez, G., & Suri, M. F. (2009). Cat ownership and the risk of fatal cardiovascular diseases: Results from the Second National Health and Nutrition Examination Study Mortality Follow-up Study. Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, 2(1), 132-135.
- Robinson, H., MacDonald, B., Kerse, N., & Broadbent, E. (2020). The psychosocial effects of a companion robot: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 76(3), 1161-1170.
- Weaver, C. M., Davidson, J. S., Smith, S. W., & Gavin, J. A. (2017). The role of the cat’s purr in promoting healing and stress reduction. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 19(8), 765-772.
- Wells, D. L. (2009). The effects of animals on human health and well-being. Journal of Social Issues, 65(3), 523-543.
