The benefits of having a cat in your home

At Tendwell, we love pets!! I grew up in a household with dogs, cats, rabbits, goldfish and yes, two rats. Although my dad complained that my mom was “living out her childhood dreams” there was a lot of fun and learning that came from caring for these pets. In my household today, we live with a wonderful cat named Angel. We adopted him about 5 years ago when my daughter was going through a rough patch in school and dealing with a new diagnosis of PANDAS. It was a scary time for the family and the joy of having a kitten around, even in a small NYC apartment supplied us with comic relief and extra snuggling. There is actually quite extensive research on the benefits of owning a cat. Cats have been domesticated for thousands of years, and they hold a special place in many people's hearts. Here are some of the commonly researched benefits of owning a cat:

1.     Emotional Well-Being: Cats can provide companionship and emotional support. Many cat owners report reduced stress levels, increased feelings of happiness, and decreased feelings of loneliness when they have a cat as a pet.

2.     Reduced Risk of Heart Disease: Some studies have suggested that cat ownership may be associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. The soothing presence of cats and the act of petting them can help lower blood pressure and reduce stress.

3.     Improved Mental Health: Cats can have a positive impact on mental health. Interacting with a cat can release feel-good chemicals in the brain, such as oxytocin and serotonin, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

4.     Companionship for the Elderly: Cats can be wonderful companions for the elderly, providing them with a sense of purpose, routine, and social interaction.

5.     Allergy Reduction: Contrary to popular belief, owning a cat from a young age may reduce the risk of developing allergies and asthma in children. Exposure to cat allergens early in life may help the immune system develop tolerance.

6.     Stress Reduction: Simply watching a cat play or interact with its environment can be a stress-relieving activity. The playful and curious nature of cats can bring joy to their owners.

7.     Exercise and Activity: Taking care of a cat, including by playing with it providing mental stimulation, can encourage physical activity in cat owners.

8.     Sense of Responsibility: Owning a cat requires care and responsibility, which can be especially beneficial for children and young adults in terms of teaching them about empathy and caregiving.

9. Social Connection: Cat owners often connect with other cat enthusiasts, whether through online communities, social groups, or at local cat-related events.

10. Pest Control: Cats are natural hunters and can help keep the home free of pests like mice and insects.

The benefits of owning a cat can vary from person to person. Not everyone will experience the same advantages, and some individuals may have allergies or other reasons that make cat ownership challenging. Additionally, ongoing research may uncover new benefits or shed further light on the existing ones. Always consider your own circumstances and lifestyle before deciding to bring a cat into your home, and make sure you can provide proper care and attention to your feline companion.