The Biggest Benefits of Cat Ownership
If you’re more of a cat person than a dog person, you might feel tempted to bring home a loveable kitten or fully-grown cat. Yet, you might be undecided on whether you can commit the time, energy, and money into owning a pet, which is why you must make an informed choice.
Unfortunately, many cats are waiting for a loving animal lover to provide them with a home. If you need a little convincing, check out the biggest benefits of cat ownership.
Cat Owners Have Better Psychological Health
A 2015 study found cat owners have better general psychological health compared with non-pet owners. During a questionnaire, cat owners stated they felt happier, more confident, and less nervous, and they tended to favor people with pets more than those without pets.
Cats Have a Small Carbon Footprint
As an eco-conscious person, you might want to welcome a pet into the home that will reduce your carbon footprint. If so, a cat is a perfect choice. According to a 2009 study, dogs have the same eco-footprint as a Land Cruiser, as they depend on many resources for food throughout their life. As cats will eat less food each day and have a diet consisting of fish or beef-flavored items, they will have a carbon footprint similar to a small hatchback.
Cats Can Improve Your Heart Health
Did you know that cats are good for your heart health? According to a recent 10-year study, cat owners are 30% less likely to die of a heart attack or stroke compared to non-cat owners. As cats can provide emotional support and require less attention than dogs, they can decrease your stress and anxiety levels. What’s more, petting a kitten or an older cat can have a calming effect, which will take pressure off your heart.
Children Will Have Fewer Allergies
A 2002 study by the National Institutes of Health found that children exposed to a cat under one year old were less likely to develop various allergies. Pet exposure early in a child’s life cannot only prevent a pet allergy, but it could help them avoid other common allergies to grass, ragweed, and dust mites.
Of course, your cat is prone to various allergies, too, which is why you must take them along to a reputable clinic, such as this Forney vet. After receiving a series of tests, your pet can receive the appropriate medication or diet to ease their allergies.
A Better Social Life
A cat can transform your social life. For example, your loveable kitty or senior cat can help you strike up conversations with your neighbors or other cat owners across your neighborhood. Plus, you could connect with pet owners on the cat food aisle of your local grocery store.
So, if you want to enjoy a healthier heart, a better social life, and help your children avoid various allergies, consider welcoming a kitten or an adult cat into your home. They could transform your health and happiness.
