Many people own cats and it is not hard to see why. These animals can be affectionate and amusing and they are also fairly independent, making them easy to look after. Meanwhile, it has been suggested that there are also health benefits associated with such care.
According to UK charity Cats Protection, having a feline companion can be therapeutic and help to combat stress. It claimed that a cat’s purr can help to lower blood pressure.
Clinical veterinary officer at the organisation Beth Skillings said: “Sitting with a relaxed purring cat at the end of a hectic day is a soothing massage for the soul. Perhaps this is because the reassuring hum is generally associated with calmness and gentle communication, or perhaps it is because the frequency of the vibration is in the range that can stimulate healing.”
The charity’s suggestions are back up by research conducted last year in conjunction with the Mental Health Foundation, which showed that owning a cat can help to boost people’s spirits. In a survey, it was found that 87 per cent of individuals who owned a feline pet felt it had a positive impact on their wellbeing, while 76 per cent noted they could cope better with everyday life.
About this, Ms Skillings remarked: “These findings tell us what cat lovers have known for years – cats are not just great company but they can also be very good for you. There are thousands of cats and kittens in our care that desperately need new homes and could help chase away the Monday blues.”
When people take on animals like this, it’s vital that they ensure they provide them with the right cat food as this helps to protect and promote their health. These days, it is possible for consumers to source products with the ideal nutritional balance given their pet’s particular life stage.