Owning a cat can be a great experience for first-time pet owners. They offer emotional support, health benefits, and companionship. Even though they seem like independent animals, cats can form strong bonds with people and increase happiness in one’s life. They can reduce stress and anxiety while being low-maintenance. The benefits of owning a cat are endless.
One of the best benefits of owning a cat is the emotional support they can provide. “Cats can form powerful social bonds as strong as dogs and serve as emotional support if you earn their affection” (Wood). Studies have shown that cats can be emotional support-type animals if you bond with them, like with another person. “Petting a cat or dog releases endorphins, serotonin, and oxytocin in the brain—often called happy hormones” (Portage Path). This shows the powerful emotional and physiological benefits of petting a cat. Petting a cat can also reduce stress and overall put you in a better mood. This is why cats are usually used in therapy, because of the comfort and emotional relief they provide by just being around them. Even though cats aren’t used as much in therapy as other animals, being 3% of all therapy animals, they are the most requested therapy animal.
Other than just mental health support, cats also connect with physical health. “The cat owners” appeared to have a lower rate of dying from heart attacks over 10 years of follow-up compared to feline-free folk (Correspondent). From this, it is also said that your chances of having a heart-related disease are lowered by 30 percent, which is very surprising for anyone. This also means that owning a cat lowers the risk of heart-related diseases, such as strokes or heart attacks. The soothing nature of a cat’s companionship can decrease blood pressure and ease the tension in your body. Also, a pet in one’s home helps make a routine, which makes the owner more productive with their time throughout the day, which promotes both emotional and physical health.
Cats are also more independent when it comes to being taken care of. When compared to dogs, cats are way more independent and don’t need frequent walks. They tend to spend more time alone anyway, which is ideal for busy people trying to just have a casual pet. They also lick themselves, I know that sounds gross, but they lick their fur coats to stay clean. Cats like to stay clean, so they don’t need baths as often compared to other animals. They don’t need constant care like other pets do, which makes them perfect for people with their crazy schedules or for those who do not have the energy for a high-maintenance pet. Unlike dogs that need walks and constant attention from their owners, cats would rather find a cozy spot by the window and, every once in a while, would like to play with their owners.
Cats not only do they offer emotional and physical benefits, but they are also great pets for being low-maintenance. For first-time pet owners, they are great for anyone wanting a calm, cool, and, wait for it, collected. They’re a independent friend that can show you a lot of affection with their unique personalities, making them a must to own one.
