Cat's – Benefit's Of Owning A Pet Cat – Improving Health And Stress Levels

There are many ways in which we try to improve our health, and lower our stress levels including; exercise, hobbies, meditation, self expression and relaxation, in some cases tablets are used. But have you ever considered owning a cat to improve your health? Many experts say that owning a pet cat and stroking it benefit's your life in many ways. But in what ways do they benefit you?

Cat's are a popular domesticated animal, many people chose to have them in their homes as pets, and this brings them great joy. I have a pet cat myself, she's called Molly and she's 12 years old, I love her to bits and she definitely helps bring happiness into my life, but does she improve my health? What benefit's does she bring? I've done some research and there are more benefits than I thought. However if you don't like cat's then owning one is useless, so don't do it! If your allergic, then there are breed's of cats that are anti- allergy, so there are still benefits if you want to have one. So these are the main benefits I've found!

According to a recent study in a University in America people who own cats as pets are less likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease and heart attacks than people who don't own cat's. The interesting thing was that the study was also taken with people who own dogs, and the same benefits were not reaped. It was only pet cat's that had the effect to reduce the risks, so this clearly showed cat's do benefit humans in this way. Why? That I couldn't find out, but it's pretty amazing!

As of yet, I don't have any heart issues, but I am only 22 years old.

A lot have studies have made about this, and the results show that if you bring a child up in an environment with animals, such as a cat, from the point of being a baby in the womb, then that child is less likely to have allergies. Why? Being brought up with the animals develops the child's immunity to them, because they carry such things as dust and hair, so they are more used to these substances it isn't a shock to their system. So another tick on the benefits of owning a cat check list.

I have had cats all my life as well as other pets and I don't suffer from any allergies.

It has been proven that having a cat to take care of, love, protect, and stroke reduces our stress and anxiety levels. How? Well having something else to take care of reduces the time that we have to think about our own problems. Stroking a cat is soothing and calming, for both you and the cat, it allows you to relax and bond. Knowing that your making your pet happy makes you happy. I run a before and after school club, so I'm in charge of other staff and a lot of children so occasionally when unexpected situations arise at work it can get quite stressful. Does Molly relieve my stress, I would say yes, stroking her and ruffling her up in a cuddle does make me feel better, knowing I can come home and relax and play with her does make me feel better.

People who live alone often get lonely, and have little company, so does owning a cat give you that social interaction you need. Studies have shown that they do. Knowing that your not coming home to a totally empty house is uplifting. Cats will sit and listen to every word you say, they're great listeners, admittedly they only answer back with an odd meow or purr and they don't really know what your saying, but them being there helps. Why ? Because they are alive, and there is a connection made between pet and owner, having something to spend time on make living alone not so lonely. Molly definitely makes me feel better when I’m home alone, knowing that she's my responsibility to take care of gives me a sense of purpose. I talk to her and give her a hug and everything feels fine.

So they are just some of the benefits I found, others include ; aiding children with autism, helping depression, reducing risk of asthma, reducing blood pressure, and helping your immune system. So the evidence really does point to the fact that owning a pet cat can benefit your health and stress levels greatly. But there are other factors to think about when considering getting a pet cat. Do you have time to take care of it and spend quality time with it, can you afford the vet and food bills, is your home suitable? Getting a cat is not something to rush into, but needs to be well thought about. So if you have made your mind up on getting a cat, then rest assured that your health is sure to benefit. I know that I love my time with Molly and if she adds to my health and well being that's an added bonus!