Did you know that kittens aren’t just cute to look at but are also good for your health?
Heart health
There are few sounds that are as instantly relaxing as a cat’s purr. It’s been scientifically shown through a study published in Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology that cat owners have a decreased risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke. A cat’s purr also not only calms your nerves, but even lowers your blood pressure.
It’s been reported that owning a cat could actually lower your risk of various heart diseases — including stroke — by some 30 percent!
Companionship
A pet can be an absolutely wonderful companion for both children and adults. Dr. Douglas Aspros, former president of the AVMA, said in a statement that: “Pets are powerful, positive influences on our lives, offering unique emotional, psychological and physical health benefits to their owners.”
For those who are single or who live alone, a kitten can also be someone to talk to and come home to after a long day at work — and someone whose antics will definitely bring a smile to your face.
Kittens are also good for mental health, for instance depression, as they are not only a non-judgemental companion, but are also someone that you need to care for (no matter how you might feel). Having the unconditional love of a pet as well as having something to care for on a daily basis who are also reliant on you for their wellbeing can have a great, positive influence on someone.
Stress and anxiety be gone!
Petting or grooming your kitten can be a very calming experience and also forces you to slow down and be mindful of what you are doing. The calming effect triggers the release of oxytocin — a hormone known for inducing feelings of love and trust.
Furthermore, people have reported that talking to their pet during times of grief or mourning is easier than talking to other humans. Part of the reason for this is that your pet won’t respond and judge you for what you are telling them.
Your carbon footprint
Cats are “greener” than dogs, so, in terms of your carbon footprint, you’d be doing mother earth a favour by choosing your kitten!
A decreased risk for allergies
If you are exposed to pet dander and fur from a very early age, you may have an increased resistance to allergens, decreasing risk for allergies and asthma. Dr. Marshall Plaut, chief of the Allergic Mechanisms Section at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, states that: “high pet exposure early in life appears to protect against not only pet allergy but also other types of common allergies, such as allergy to dust mites, ragweed, and grass."
Even cat videos are good for you
A study of over 7,000 people by Indiana University Bloomington found that even just watching cat videos on the internet can boost the viewers’ energy and positive emotions while decreasing negative feelings. Next time someone says you show them too many videos of your new kitten, just remind them that it’s scientifically proven to be good for them!
Photo by Unsplash.
