July 22, 2022
Research is showing that not only do cats provide you with companionship and connection; they also have a positive impact on both your physical and mental wellbeing.
Any cat owner will tell you how much their life is enriched by having a feline companion, but there are now an increasing number of studies confirming and quantifying the health benefits of cat ownership.
Humans have been domesticating cats as companion animals for almost 12,000 years according to research published in Science magazine. This is actually far longer than previously thought, and now indicates that cats and humans have shared a reciprocal relationship for just as long as dogs, albeit in a different capacity.
Historically, cats have fulfilled the role of pest control in and around the household, but in recent years the dynamic has shifted. Instead, we now value cats as social companions and enjoy both comfort in their presence, and the entertainment they provide through their quirky feline antics.
Cats are intriguing creatures, and can be considered only half domesticated as they still retain the ability to hunt for themselves, and as such, are not completely reliant on their human as the only food source. So why have we grown such a strong connection with these part-wild animals who we no longer require to serve a predatory function?
The simple reason is that we feel better just by having them around.
The factual health benefits on having cat are quite astounding:
• Reduced risk of a heart attack by 40%.
• 30% less likely to die from other heart related diseases.
• Reduced risk of developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma cancer by 33%
These noted benefits around cardiac wellness are attributed to a cats ability to lower your stress levels. Engaging with, and petting a cat calms your nervous system, having a positive impact on blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormones.
The health benefits of cats doesn’t end there though!
Did you know that a cat purrs at a frequency of 20-100 Hz which is proven to be medically therapeutic? This healing vibration is known to:
• Improve bone growth and healing.
• Provide pain relief.
• Reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Improve muscle growth and repair tears.
• Improve joint mobility.
Cats are well-known for their ability to heal quickly from broken bones, and rarely suffer from joint problems or bone cancer. It is therefore purrfectly plausible that the healing properties of their purr extends to their humans also. It is therefore of little wonder that we feel so much better having a cat companion in our lives, and why many nations and civilisations worship cats as royalty.
So, how can we possibly return the favour to our beloved cats?
As well as providing love, snuggles and companionship in return, it is important to remember that cats need playtime and enrichment activities in order to feel happy and fulfilled. Creating opportunities for cats to use their natural instincts to jump, stalk, run and pounce will keep them both physically and mentally healthy.
Here are some ideas for you.
• Use recyclables such and boxes and tubes to create foraging
puzzles. Creating small holes and compartments to hide food will
keep your cat occupied for many hours.
• Provide different textures and textiles for your cat to scratch and
roll on. Door mats and bath mats provide an interesting surface
for cats to engage with, and brushes and bristles to rub and roll
on are always a hit.
• Use a wand with string dangling a toy or feather from the end to
encourage natural hunting behaviours as a way of engaging their
whole mind and body.
As well as enrichment activities, take a preventative approach to your cats health and wellbeing, taking them to regular check-ups at the vet to discuss any concerns you may have.
Finally, provide a natural, species appropriate diet for your feline friend. A healthy diet designed for the specific digestive system of a cat will ensure all of the nutritional needs of your cat are met, ensuring you both have a long and happy life together.
If you look after your cat, your cat will look after you.
Claire Oats
Specialist Animal Kinesiologist B.Sc, Dip Kin
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About the author
Claire Oats is a Specialist Animal Kinesiologist and Canine Behaviourist from Perth. Claire has worked with dogs for the last 25 years and specialises in resolving behaviour problems using Kinesiology techniques to remove physiological, neurological and emotional stress.
Please note: Claire's blog is general advice only. For further information on this topic please consult your veterinarian.
