Cats have a long history with humans and remain one of the most popular pets globally. In the United States, about 42.7 million households own at least one cat.
Their loving nature and low maintenance make them ideal for various lifestyles. There are also plenty of scientific facts about how having a cat improves the quality of our lives. Beyond their charm, research indicates that cats offer health benefits, including stress reduction and enhanced feelings of social connectedness.
Let us dive into the physical health benefits, mental health advantages and social perks that come with cat ownership, so that you will get an understanding of why cats are much more than just pets, but also a facilitator of better health.
Physical health benefits
Interestingly, not only do pet cats promote better functionality in daily routines, but their impact on physical well-being can also be noticed.
> Decreased stress and anxiety
Simply petting a cat has been associated with the release of oxytocin, one of those hormones that promotes emotional bonding and helps reduce anxiety.
It is no secret that cats help bring down the cortisol levels (the main stress hormone) in humans and make you relax, promoting relief from anxiety or any type of tension. The calming effect is especially helpful in those who deal with a high-stress environment or chronic stress conditions.
> Reduced risk of heart disease
Research has shown that cat owners have a 30% lower risk of heart attack and stroke. The study, published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, found that cat owners were 30% less likely to die from a heart attack than people without cats.
The calming effect of a cat can decrease blood pressure and heart rate, leading to improved cardiovascular health.
> Improved immune system
Exposure to cat fur can strengthen the immune system, particularly in children, reducing the risk of allergies and asthma. The Hygiene Hypothesis suggests that early exposure to allergens helps the immune system adapt, promoting overall health.
> Increased low impact health exercise
Owning a cat as a pet not only enriches one’s life with companionship, but also contributes significantly to physical activity, which is essential for maintaining overall health and fitness. While cats are often seen as low-maintenance pets that do not require the level of exercise that dogs do, they still play a crucial role in encouraging physical activity in their owners.
This aspect of cat ownership is particularly important, as regular physical activity is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. Playing with cats is a fun and effective way to incorporate more physical activity into one’s daily routine.
Activities such as chasing a laser pointer, dangling a feather toy, or engaging in interactive play sessions with a cat, not only stimulate the cat’s natural hunting instincts, but also get the owner moving. These play sessions, which might involve running, bending or stretching, can elevate the heart rate and provide a mild form of exercise.
For individuals who may not have the time or inclination for more rigorous exercise routines, these playful interactions with a cat can offer a convenient and enjoyable way to stay active. Moreover, the regular engagement in these playful activities can have long-term health benefits.
Physical activity helps to maintain a healthy weight, improve cardiovascular health, and enhance muscle tone and flexibility. For children, playing with a cat can develop motor skills and coordination, while for adults, it can serve as a low-impact form of exercise that helps to maintain mobility and overall fitness.
Even seniors, who may have limited physical activity options, can benefit from the gentle exercise that comes from interacting with a cat.
Mental health benefits
Mental health can benefit significantly from having a cat through various psychological advantages that are conducive to the welfare of the human owner.
> Companionship and reduced loneliness
Owning a cat provides companionship that can alleviate feelings of loneliness. Their comforting presence adds structure to daily life, especially for those living alone, offering purpose during challenging times.
> Therapeutic effects
Cats serve as therapeutic companions for individuals facing mental health issues. Interacting with cats can lower cortisol levels and boost serotonin production, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Animal-assisted therapy is increasingly recognised for its effectiveness in these contexts.
> Improved mood
Spending time with a cat stimulates the release of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, enhancing mood and emotional well-being. The act of petting a cat can reduce stress and anxiety, while their soothing purrs contribute to a sense of calm.Social benefits
Owning a cat offers numerous social benefits that enhance both physical and mental health. Here are some key points:
> Improved communication
Cats, while independent, foster social interaction through daily activities like feeding and grooming. Engaging with your cat helps develop non-verbal communication skills and prepares you for human conversations, enhancing overall communication.
> Enhanced empathy
Cat owners often exhibit greater empathy, which positively impacts human relationships. Caring for a pet nurtures understanding and sensitivity towards others, leading to stronger connections with friends, family and co-workers.
> Community connections
Cats can help forge community ties among pet owners. From local clubs to online forums, the shared love of cats creates networks that provide emotional support and friendship. This communal bond strengthens social interactions and leads to lasting relationships.
Conclusion
With so many positive aspects to being a cat owner, you may want to consider finding your own feline friend. So, whether you are looking to get healthier, happier or more sociable, a cat just might be the right companion for you.
By Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar
Published in Star Newspaper, 09 Sep 2024
