Health Benefits of Cat Ownership
Did you know that owning a cat can decrease your chances of having a heart attack by up to 30%? Studies have found that this simple solution can improve your health and decrease the risks of heart attacks and other diseases. Owning a pet can extend your life, so adding a kitten or puppy to your household can help you live longer. There have been reports of amazing feats by dogs and cats, but this is one that bears looking into.
All of us benefit from owning a pet. Whether young or old. It gives us a companion and a reason to live for. Older ones who might have grown children who have left the home and have less activities in life can especially benefit from a pet. Studies show that a cat or dog have similar effects but a cat can have even more positive influence on its owner. Depression and lonliness can vanish when a kitty comes into the life of an owner. Young ones can learn important lessons on responsiblity and care. These little creatures can make a person feel needed and forget the stress and problems in thier life. Even if its only for short periods of time, it can be enough to combat the health problems that can arise from stress and depression.
Owning a cat is good for your health. In spite of the annoyances that come along with pet ownership - the scratching of the furniture, the weekly litter box cleaning, and accidents you may have to clean up - studies have consistently shown lowered blood pressure and cholesterol. This is more true for cat owners than dog owners, although no explanation can be found. Pet owners are also more active, since they have to keep up with their animals needs. This provides a less sedentary lifestyle, leading to better health through physical activity.
Now we are not saying, just drop everything and go out and buy any old ‘big eyed’ dog or cat at the local shelter. There are some things that might detract from a happy experience if not taken into account. For instance, pets require special care such as flea and tick medication. Dogs need heart worm medication, accidents can require trips to the vet. Money is one of the biggest cause of stress in a persons life. So be sure the individual can properly care for thier pet and not become stressed out over occasional costs. Food, litter, toys and proper enclosures can quickly pile up. If such matters can be accomodated then the benefits of pet ownership are well worth the investment.
Pets take time, in order to care for them properly. It is not fair to you or the animal to take on additional responsibilities that you don’t have time for. Cats offer an advantage over a dog because they are generally lower maintenance, since it is easier to leave them by themselves overnight and you don’t have to walk them or let them out. A clean litter box and full bowl of food is usually all they need for overnight absences but you might want to reconsider if you go away for long trips.
Sometimes it’s not always the facts that make someone want a pet. Once your heart is ready to let an animal in, you will be able to experience the joy that comes from knowing you are loved. Visit a shelter and find the animal that pulls at your heart strings. You will be helping your health, and saving an animal from ultimate death. There’s not a better combination of life saving that you can do - saving two lives at once.