Some of the advantages to being a "cat person" are self-evident. Cats are wonderful companions for cuddling up in front of the fire or spending a relaxing day in bed with a nice book.
Other advantages of owning a cat are less obvious. Here are five wonderful, unexpected reasons why having a feline companion is beneficial.
1st BENEFIT - Cats can help you cope with stress and boost your mood.
Having cats in the house might have a significant impact on our moods. According to studies, spending 15 to 30 minutes every day with your cat – petting, playing, or simply hanging out — can improve your mood.
What is the mechanism behind it? It has to do with serotonin, a neurotransmitter that increases emotions of happiness, and cortisol, a stress hormone. Our serotonin levels rise and our cortisol levels fall when we spend time with cats. That is to say, the pleasant feelings have triumphed!
2ND BENEFIT — Cats Assist You in Maintaining Your Health
Whether you believe it or not, having a cat can offer a lot of health benefits.
The full list of health benefits is lengthy, but the highlights include a reduced chance of heart attack, a stronger immune system, and the possibility to prevent asthma and allergies in children later in life.
3RD BENEFIT — Rodents are kept at bay by cats.
It's no secret that cats and mice have had a long-standing enmity. Mice are inclined to keep their distance when a cat is present.
Yes, capturing mice is one of the venerable feline order's favorite activities. Cats, on the other hand, despite their fondness for chasing mice, kill them infrequently - at least if they're tamed. Smaller creatures provide food for wild cats, but your domestic cats are mostly interested in the excitement. Even the smell of a cat is enough to deter mice.
4TH BENEFIT — Cats Assist You in Recovering From Trauma More Quickly
The number of studies that show how a cat's presence can help people heal is nearly endless. We've already discussed the overall health benefits of cats, but it turns out that they can also aid in the recovery of various traumas.
Surgical recovery Patients and members of the armed forces suffering from PTSD have reported feeling better when a cat is present. People who don't have human loved ones to keep them company claim that a little feline companionship helps them recover faster from emotional and physical setbacks.
5TH BENEFIT - Cats Aid in Weight Loss
Having any kind of animal as a pet is a fantastic method to maintain your fitness. Although dogs get the majority of the credit for being excellent gym buddies, cats are equally unheralded when it comes to getting in shape.
Any cat owner will tell you that cats get bored easily, which means they require constant, unique stimulus to stay entertained - and that's where you come in. Break out the laser pointer, feather duster, or play hide-and-seek with your cats to keep them active and occupied. Your kitties will appreciate it, as will your waistline.
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