Choose a Cat or Home Spa?
In America there are 95.6 million pet cats and millions more waiting to be adopted. These furry friends not only make great additions to American families, they can also benefit the overall wellbeing of their adopted families. In fact, having your cat meet you when you walk in the door from work is actually healthier than visiting a spa.
Surprising Health Benefits of a Cat
Sharing your life with a four-footed friend has numerous health benefits. Studies show that petting a purring cat can actually lower your stress. Studies have also found that the purring vibrations from a cat can also heal infections, muscle injuries, and promote bone strength. It’s also been suggested that cats could help lower human risk of cancer. And that owning a cat can also lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and ward off depression.
Lower the Risk of Stroke and Heart Disease
A study presented by the American Stroke Association at the International Stroke Conference shows that cat owners are less likely to die of a heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases than people who have never had a cat. In the study people who never had a cat were 30 percent more likely to die of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, heart failure and chronic heart disease. Over the 20-year study of people between the ages of 30 and 75 years old, participants without a cat were 40 percent more likely to die of a heart attack.
Thinking About Bringing a Loving Cat Into Your Family?
You aren’t alone. Millions of Americans consider adopting a pet every year and three to four million cats and dogs are adopted each year. Unfortunately, more people are needed to adopt pets as 2.7 million adoptable cats and dogs are euthanized in shelters each year.
Many of Americans think they are too busy or do not have enough time or money for a cat. However, these studies show that owning a cat may cut your mental and physical healthcare costs by a significant amount not including the pain and suffering caused by diseases. The animal shelters are overflowing with beautiful, loving, tame cats that need a home. Please consider a four-legged angel, or more than one, in your plans for this year.