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Incredible Benefits of Owning a Pet Cat
CatsBehavior

Incredible Benefits of Owning a Pet Cat

Critter Culture Staff

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Your feline friend is far more than just a furry companion; they bring joy to your day and boost your mood when life gets tough. The unconditional love your cat brings is mutually rewarding and provides a healthy outlet for creativity, connection, and play. There's nothing quite like curling up with your furry bundle of fluff, but they offer much more than cuteness and cuddles.

1

They're independent

Incredible Benefits of Owning a Pet Cat Photo by Jez Timms on Unsplash

Cats are the kings and queens of their homes and loyal, ever-loving companions to you, but they also have a fierce independent streak. While they're down for plenty of cuddles and playtime, they're also adequate at entertaining themselves and can play for hours with a cardboard box or some crumpled aluminum foil. Since they don't require constant attention, you have space to enjoy your life without guilt.

2

They're easy to care for

Utrillo is a big and easy cat, likes stay on my lap and stomach. He was relaxing on the stairs. Seiichi Tanaka / Getty Images

Cats are one of the easiest pets to care for, as you don't have to spend countless hours training and grooming them. There's no need to take them outside for bathroom breaks or trips to the park, and you're not required to take them for walks down the block either. Since there's so much room to spread out and explore at home, cats find space to play nearly anywhere, making them wonderful companions whether you live in an apartment or a rural farm.

3

They love solitude

Carefree Kitten, Sleeping Kitten, Bengal Kitten Sleeping Jena Ardell / Getty Images

Whether you're busy working from home or simply craving some solitude after a long day, you can rest easy when you're in the company of cats. They love their peace and quiet just as much as you do, so they won't constantly distract you when you least expect it. Cats can read signals well, so they'll know when you need your space and will be more than happy to provide it.

4

They keep pests away

Domestic cat ready to hunt spooh / Getty Images

Cats are born hunters, so they go after insects and rodents like no other pet can. The extermination efforts of cats should come as no surprise since they love eliminating spiders, house flies, gnats, moths, and any bug they don't want creeping around, preventing many unwanted intruders from working their way indoors. They'll hunt down rodents too, so prepare for a pest-free environment where your cats spend their days savoring the thrill of the hunt.

5

Their lifespans are long

A returned elderly antique dealer is sat on the sofa in his classically styled living room. He is smiling directly at the camera and is stroking his cat, which is sat in his lap. The male has white hair and is surrounded by antiques he has collected over the years. He is dressed in a cardigan, jumper, shirt and tie, with a pair of trousers. Jamie Garbutt / Getty Images

We forge such close bonds with our pets that losing an animal is comparable to losing a loved one. When we spend years or decades with a furry companion, the separation becomes tough stuff. Cats are a wise choice if you want a pet that will last through the years. You'll still outlive your feline friend, but you'll also get up to 20 years of quality time with them.

6

They can reduce stress and anxiety

petting a tabby cat Photo by Fuzzy Rescue on Unsplash

The evidence doesn't lie; according to science, hearing your cat's purr can help soothe your nervous system for a strong feeling of calm and relaxation. Not only that, but this gentle purring could even lower your blood pressure and contribute to positive health overall. Even a single play session can boost your mood, and science shows that feline friends can reduce anxiety and stress for a more peaceful life.

7

They're incredible companions

Couple cuddling with kitten in bed Oliver Rossi / Getty Images

Your cat will curl up to you when you're feeling low, and they'll share your happiness when you reach a new goal. They're friends for life who are in it for the long haul, in good times and bad. The unconditional love of a cat knows no bounds; they're affectionate, loving, and always happy to see you. Their loyalty shows through when you need it the most, and it's the best feeling when your cat curls up in your lap or purrs while they walk by. The strong bond you two build is a lasting one.

8

They're entertaining

Little boy holds out a stick with feathers on it for a little kitten to play with. Annie Otzen / Getty Images

Compared to other animals, cats are a great time. Your feline friend always knows how to have fun and can create entertainment out of any occasion. They'll have a ball with a piece of string, go wild over fluffy feather toys, and roll around to dash after something that's caught their fancy. The hunting, the chasing — cats are always having a blast, and just watching your fluffy pet have fun could boost your mood and amuse you for hours.

9

They can improve allergies and heart health

little girl petting her cat Photo by Chewy on Unsplash

Owning a cat could have tangible health benefits. Research has revealed that cat owners are at lower risk for both strokes and heart disease, which is possibly linked to the lower levels of stress and anxiety that cats contribute to. Owning a cat could even prevent allergies in the next generation. If a young child is exposed to cats in their early years, for example, they're likely to develop a stronger immune system that fights off all kinds of allergens, not just cat allergies.

10

They don't need much space

Happy hipster girl hugging cute cat, sitting together at home

Cats get just as comfortable squeezing into small spaces as they do exploring multi-story mansions. While owning a large dog breed requires ample indoor and outdoor space, cats aren't nearly as limited. Most are happy staying indoors and will be perfectly content in an apartment. Even those in cramped studios can adapt and settle in nicely. For those living in crowded urban areas, this is excellent news. As long as you provide your cat with sufficient time and attention, they'll thrive anywhere and adapt with you. They also don't need to be walked or taken outdoors, so space requirements are quite minimal.

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