The Mental Health Benefits of Being a Cat Lover
Cats might have a reputation for being aloof, but they can be deeply bonded to their people — and experts say they could offer something even more powerful than loyalty. You’ve probably noticed it yourself: Spending quality time with a cat can make you feel less stressed, more relaxed and generally … better. In fact, whether you regularly struggle with anxiety or you are just feeling down at the moment, a cat can be an excellent source of social support.
Cats Help Us Cope
A recent survey on pets and mental health by the American Psychiatric Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association found that 84% of pet owners reported that their pets had a positive impact on their mental health. For two-thirds of survey participants, the companionship pets offered was key to a positive mindset. Howard Liu, M.D., M.B.A., chair of the American Psychiatric Association’s Council on Communications, an adult and child psychiatrist and chair of the UNMC Department of Psychiatry, says feline companionship may be especially beneficial and meaningful for people struggling with anxiety, depression and autism spectrum disorder as well as people who have a history of trauma.
Of course, cats aren’t a magic pill, Dr. Liu says: “Every person and every cat is unique, so owning a pet is not a guarantee of better mental health.” However, people who live with chronic mental health conditions often list spending time with their cats as a coping strategy for when they are sad, anxious or frightened.
The Power of Petting
It may sound too good to be true, but just giving your cat a couple of friendly pats can set you up for calmness. Stroking a cat’s fur can lower your blood pressure and may help you feel less stressed by lowering your levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increasing your body’s production of the feel-good hormone oxytocin. Dr. Liu explains that cat petting and the company of cats can be especially helpful to those coping with difficult times. “We live in a world where people are increasingly lonely and isolated,” he says. Luckily, cats can offer companionship and a sense of ownership.
Creatures of Habit
If you’re struggling with your mental health, it might feel challenging even to get out of bed, take a shower, prepare meals and handle other aspects of daily life. But cats stick to a schedule, and you’ll have to do so too if you have one. A cat will remind you when it’s time for meals and when they want attention. Playing with a cat can lighten your mood and help distract you from things that might have a negative impact on your mental health. And being needed by your cat can help you feel less alone and encourage you to push through a rough day.
“We know that loneliness is a real physical and mental health risk factor, like smoking. Having a cat can help people feel connected and gives them a daily routine that can be helpful for both the person and their pet,” says Dr. Liu. Having a cat isn’t a replacement for going to therapy or seeking out other mental health support, of course, but cat companionship can be an important part of your overall mental health care plan and support system. Bonus: Chances are the cat will feel happier too!
For more info on anxiety and depression, and how to get help, visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
This story originally appeared in the September 2024 issue of Good Housekeeping.
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