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6 Ways Your Cat Obsession Is Making You Healthier
Go on and snuggle up! There’s a lot of research out there that says your beloved kitten is good for your heart in more ways than one.
1. Cat lovers can be smarter and more sensitive
Practice your best humble boast, as a 2014 study found that those who identify as cat lovers are more introverted, yes, but also more open-minded and sensitive than dog lovers. Cat lovers also scored higher than a dog’s companions on intelligence.
2. They help us to have less stress
Are you feeling anxious? You might want to schedule an extended petting session tonight. Stroking your cat releases oxytocin, the bonding hormone or “cuddle chemical,” which can make you feel less stressed, says Melanie Greenberg, Ph.D., licensed clinical psychologist and author of The Stress-Proof Brain.
3. They’re good for your ticker
In fact, in a study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, researchers found a link between cat ownership and a reduced risk of dying from heart attack or stroke. Even your cat’s purring can calm your nerves and lower your blood pressure.
4. You keep loneliness at bay
One of the best things a cat can offer is simple: company. “People are a little more disconnected these days,” says Greenberg. “And research shows that loneliness is a big factor in all types of illness.” For example, a recent study linked loneliness to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
According to a 2013 survey by the Veterinary Medical Association, pet ownership is increasing among single adults. “It’s interesting to see that more and more single people are discovering the comfort and satisfaction that a pet can bring. Pets have a powerful, positive impact on our lives and offer their owners unique emotional, psychological and physical health benefits, “said Dr Douglas Aspros, former president of AVMA, said in a statement.
5. You can prevent allergies
According to a study published in the journal Clinical & Experimental Allergy, teenagers who were exposed to cats during their first year of life were less likely to develop an allergy to fur babies. “The theory is that the immune system develops in a healthy and normal way by giving the immune system something natural to work on and not always overreacting to harmless stimuli,” says Haworth.
6. They are cheaper than dogs
It’s not just about mental or physical health – cats are better for your finances, too. According to the ASPCA, owning a furry cat instead of a puppy can save you about $ 300 to $ 800 a year.
But you did know that, didn’t you?
Most cat ladies don’t need researchers to prove all of these great health benefits. According to a 2015 pet food industry survey of cat owners, 40 percent of women (compared to 25 percent of men) think their cats are good for their physical health. And 52 percent of women (compared to 28 percent of men) think their cats are good for their mental health, too.
So proudly swing the Cat Lady banner – it’s healthy!
Dogs also make us healthy – this is how it works
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