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Questions
- Advantages of Having a Cat
- The Mental Health Benefits of Cats
- Can Cats Help with Anxiety?
One in four people in the UK will experience mental health problems during any twelve months – that’s no big reveal. It’s also old news that pets can help with loneliness and anxiety, but - what many people don’t know - is that cat ownership can have tangible and positive benefits for mental health.
A 2011 survey by Cats Protection UK and the Mental Health Foundation discovered that 87% of respondents who owned a cat answered the question ‘are cats good for mental health?’ with a resounding ‘yes’.
Discover the different benefits a cat could have for your mental health. If you are already a cat owner, there could be hidden support that you may already be receiving but didn’t know about.
Advantages of Having a Cat
Cat owners are only too aware of the pleasures of feline ownership and the benefits of their treasured furry companion. However, if you need convincing of the joy a cat can bring, here are some of the key takeaways:
Cats give you true love – bonds between cats and owners can be deep and intense
They are entertaining - even adults like to play and respond well to stimulating toys and games
Cats are good for your heart health - studies show they reduce the risk of heart problems and stroke by around 30%
They’re more low-maintenance than other pets - cats generally require less input than dogs, which need daily exercise and can’t be left alone for as long
They can be kept in small spaces – they can be the perfect pet in the confines of the city or a small flat and because they are usually silent and won’t disturb the neighbours
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Keeping a cat as a pet can offer a huge number of well-known advantages, but they can also offer benefits for mental health.
The Mental Health Benefits of Cats
Cats can help with depression, loneliness and anxiety, all of which are issues that affect a huge proportion of the population at some point in their lives. Additionally, cats can help support emotional and psychological illnesses from developing too.
Cats offer tranquil and non-judgemental love. They are quite self-sufficient and independent, so people feel supported without necessarily having to give back the care and input that other pets, like dogs, require.
Cats help with emotional regulation. Stress, panic attacks and anxiety can be reduced with the calming influence of a cat, especially when stroking them, as this can lower the heart rate and help to regulate breathing. And, let’s be honest, a cat’s purr is so soothing and healing.
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Another way cats can help with mental health is that they’re able to divert and entertain - a standard technique to promote good mental health and wellbeing, by helping people to focus their mind on other things. It’s hard not to be absorbed with a cat and his favourite toy. Watching their clown antics and sheer zest for living can have a hugely positive impact on mental wellbeing and is one of the well-known benefits of cats for mental health.
When people feel all alone in the world, a cat will be there for them. Cats are a great antidote to loneliness and they can aid peaceful sleep. There is nothing more calming than sharing space with a sleeping cat, the ultimate art of relaxation.
Can Cats Help with Anxiety?
Cats help with anxiety as they are the exponents of calm. From the rhythmical purr of a contented feline, to the calming impact of repeated stroking - the physical, audible and emotional impact on the human brain can be significant.
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In October 2019, in support of World Mental Health Day, research by the Cats Protection League produced data to suggest that nine out of ten cat owners surveyed maintained that owning a cat improved their mental health.It’s official, the mental health benefits of cats are indisputable. From companionship to support for low mood, anxiety and depression - a furry feline offers unconditional love and affection. Remember, your cats’ mental health also needs to be looked after with a routine, regular grooming if required and toys for play and stimulation. You can find everything to keep your kitty happy here at Jollyes.