Are Cats Good for Mental Health?

Humans have been keeping cats as loving companions for centuries, but the question remains: can cats be good for your mental health? The answer is yes, and there are a variety of ways in which they’re able to do so, which we explore further below.

Ways Cats Can Help Your Mental Health

When it comes to improving your mental health, unfortunately, there is no quick fix. That said, there are some ways in which you can lessen the mental load to make things seems a little less overwhelming, and here are the ways that a feline friend could help:

Companionship

There’s nothing worse than being alone when you’re not feeling a hundred per cent, but having a feline friend waiting for you at the end of the day can make things a little easier.

This is not only because having a pet around stops you from feeling as lonely, but also because cats (despite their reputation) offer their owners unconditional love. Even if they’re more aloof in their behaviour, the fact remains that a cat’s owner is the centre of their world, the one who provides for all their needs and is always there for them.

And if there’s one way to stop feeling alone, it's by being the centre of someone's world, even if that someone weighs 5kg and is covered in fur.

Responsibility

There are plenty of times when we find it hard to look after ourselves, but that’s rarely the case when it comes to caring for someone who's reliant on us. The same goes for a cat. Knowing that your little bundle of fluff is dependent on you for their food, water and affection can give you the motivation you need to get up and get going.

So, when you're pouring out your kitty's breakfast, why not sort out some for yourself so both of you can get the best start to the day?

Routine

Cats are creatures of habit, and as the owner of a cat, so will you be. Having a cat is like having a fuzzy little alarm clock, and when it comes to improving your mental health, having a routine is one of the best ways to start.

Not only can having a cat help you get out of bed in the morning, but they can also help you know when it's time to wind down when it's time to eat, and even when it's time to sleep. Plus, having your four-legged friend with you every step of the way is sure to offer you the motivation you need.

Relaxation

Did you know that studies have been conducted on the healing power of a cat’s purr? Cats purr at a frequency between 20-240 Hz, which studies have shown to be a medically therapeutic range for illness in humans. For example, a low-frequency vibration (25–50 Hz) has been shown to aid in the healing of broken bones, so what’s to say a cat’s purr can’t?

Stroking a purring cat can also help your body release stress-relieving hormones, which aid in managing your stress and making it easier to relax. This is particularly helpful for those who struggle more with anxiety and need a helping paw to relax and unwind, or those who struggle to get to sleep at night.

There’s no quick fix when it comes to struggling with your mental health, and if you’re planning on getting a pet, then you need to be sure you’re in a place where you can provide for them. That said, cats can make wonderful and rewarding companions who are always willing to listen if you need to vent your problems.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, please don’t be afraid to reach out. Many resources are available online for free from the Mental Health Foundation, the founders of Mental Health Awareness Week. You can also get in touch with family, friends, or even your local GP.

As your cat cares for you, care for them with high-quality cat healthcare products at great prices, which are available from Pet Drugs Online, so you can love them well for less.

This post is an opinion and should only be used as a guide. You should discuss any change to your pet’s care or lifestyle thoroughly with your vet before starting any program or treatment. Written by a human named Hannah Clark.