How Cats Positively Affect Our Health
Cats have held a special place in our homes and hearts for centuries. But did you know that these fluffy companions also positively influence our health in many ways?
Cats are elegant and fascinating creatures. They bring joy and warmth into our lives. In 2022, more than 2 million cats lived in Austrian households. Extrapolated, that would be one cat in every second household. It is all the more interesting that living together with these house pets has an amazing effect on our physical and mental health.
Cat purrs can be healing and calming
A cat's purr is a fascinating quality. It usually means that they feel good and are happy. But they also use this quality to heal themselves and calm themselves in stressful situations. Purring helps us humans to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It calms the nerves and can reduce stress hormones like cortisol or lower blood pressure.
This in turn has positive effects on our memory. Cat purring thus also protects against memory loss and the decline of cognitive abilities. The cat's purring frequencies correspond to the vibration and electric frequencies used in the treatment of bone fractures, pain or wounds.
Perfect companion in lonely times
Loneliness affects more people than it might seem at first glance. Especially older people and people with disabilities, but also young people under 30 years of age, feel increasingly lonely. They find in a cat the perfect companion to counteract this feeling. Their presence and need for attention and affection not only provide companionship, but also increase social well-being. Interaction with a cat alleviates feelings of isolation and increases overall happiness.
Reduction of heart disease
Surprisingly, cats can even contribute to the editorship of heart disease. Cuddling and playing with a cat can regulate the heartbeat and lower cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that cat owners generally have a lower risk of heart disease and heart attacks.
Improved sleep quality
The gentle and calming presence of a cat can alleviate the symptoms of sleep disorders. Purring is calming and therefore acts as a natural sleep aid. The comforting feeling of a cat curling up comfortably on your chest and purring softly promotes faster falling asleep and deeper slumber.
Strengthening the immune system
Cats are literally "hairy health boosters". While their fur can cause allergies in some people, it can also often strengthen the immune system. Cat hair, saliva and other germs train the immune system and make it more resistant to pathogens and allergens. Conversely, this means: it strengthens the defences, and you get sick less often.
A sense of responsibility
Caring for a cat gives a strong sense of responsibility. Cat owners have to take care of their animals' needs - be it food, grooming or vet visits. The desire for responsibility is deeply rooted in our humanity. Because it also means that one gets a feeling of "being needed". It increases self-esteem, has an overall positive effect on our psyche and can even be fulfilling.
So cats are more than just cuddly pets. They are therapeutic companions, playmates, comedians, comforters or simply quiet listeners. Gentle creatures, with a large portion of curiosity and astute intelligence.
Photos: Shutterstock
