10 Reasons Why Every Home Needs A Cat
If home is a place where laughter never ends, love is always present and family and friends are always welcome, then home is where a cat is. Because that’s what you get when you add a kitty into the equation.
But just in case you need more convincing, here are 10 reasons why we believe every home needs a cat.
1. Cats lower the risk of heart attacks in humans.
Research found that cat owners are 30% less likely to have heart attacks than non-cat owners. Reduced stress (even from just petting a kitty’s head) can help protect against heart disease in the long-term by lowering one’s blood pressure and cholesterol levels - and that makes cats the more enjoyable alternative to cholesterol-lowering medications.
2. You are never truly alone with a cat around.
Cats are a constant warm presence that’s comforting without being overwhelming or demanding. While they may not always engage with you (since they sleep between 16-20 hours a day), you can always count on them to be there for you. An Austrian study found that having a cat in the house is the emotional equivalent of having a romantic partner around - and that says a lot about a cat’s ability to fulfill our need for companionship.
3. Cats are generally low maintenance.
These self-sufficient kitties can spend up to 50% of their waking hours grooming themselves, and are pretty much contented with just the basics: food, water, shelter and your love. With a cat, there’s no need to fuss over them all the time. These independent animals can take care of themselves and still find time to accommodate your busy schedule despite their need for beauty sleep.
4. You sleep better with a cat around.
If you have trouble sleeping, a purring cat may just be what you need to fall into a deep slumber. When a cat curls up next to you at night, her purrs can be more comforting than a white noise machine. In fact, a study from the Mayo Clinic Center for Sleep Medicine found that 41% of the participants actually sleep better with their cat!
5. Cats are the purrfect de-stressors.
There’s a reason why pet-friendly offices are becoming more prevalent all over the world today. Just having a cat around triggers the release of calming chemicals in your body which in turn lowers your stress and anxiety levels. A petting session is usually enough to relieve tension and leave both human and cat happy - and the deal is sweetened by the fact that most cats have such incredibly soft fur.
6. They give you paw-some emotional support.
With a cat, you can just feel. Despite their reputation for being aloof animals, cats actually have a deep sensitivity to our mental and emotional states. You can always count on your feline friend for support - without fear of getting thrown advice you don’t always want or need.
7. Children develop stronger immune systems with cats around.
Research found that children who lived with cats during their first year of life are less likely to suffer from allergies and respiratory issues. In fact, an overly clean environment may actually be counterintuitive when it comes to strengthening the immune system.
8. Cats are ideal even for apartment dwellers.
Most cats are extremely well-suited to indoor-living for their entire lives. With enough vertical space for them to explore, and adequate stimulation (e.g., from catnip or other items of interest), even a small apartment can be kitty heaven. With their small size, quietness and high tolerance for extended periods of alone time, cats make great pets even for those living in small apartments.
9. Cats are man’s best ‘frenemy’.
In a way, cats are similar to humans in the way we build relationships with each other - starting slow, building trust, and eventually earning mutual respect. Nothing comes simple with a cat. More often than not, we’re treated like friends instead of owners - but we need to earn their friendship first. Cats may ignore us at times, and be all over us the next moment, but everything with a cat is always genuine.
10. And last but not least, they are adorable.
Cute, cuddly and bursting with fun and mischief, cats know just how to catch our affection and hold on tight! They know they’re cute, and they know we think they’re cute - and they will turn every adorable charm on you just for some extra yummy treats.
It’s a known fact that many cats are hesitant to show affection - even towards their owners - but once a bond is formed, you’re guaranteed a loyal friend for life. Every cat has their own special love to give, and it’s always unconditional.