Ten Reasons to Get a Cat

They help with cleaning.

Cats have a reputation for being less than diligent when it comes to cleaning themselves, but that’s not entirely accurate. Cats are actually pretty good at keeping themselves relatively clean, and will lick their paws to clean their faces and ears. However, if you have long-haired cats, you’ll need to give them a brush once a week, and long-haired kittens should have their fur regularly trimmed with a clipper. Having a cat also means that you won’t have to worry about them getting into your kitchen cabinets or chewing on electrical cables. Your feline friend can keep pests away from your kitchen, keep vermin out of your attic, and reduce the risk of mosquito bites in the summer.

They’re great companions.

Cats are extremely social creatures, and most will happily spend their time in your presence. Cats are also incredibly affectionate and are known to use their paws to show affection through petting and kneading. Cats also enjoy playing with toys, and many can be taught tricks, such as fetch. Some cats even enjoy being held, being carried around like a baby, or being taken out for a walk with a harness and leash. Cats can also be trained to use a litter box or a dog bowl and can be house-trained with a bit of effort.

10 Reasons to Adopt a Cat!

You can exercise with them.

If you want to lose weight, one of the best exercises you can do is aerobic exercise. This type of exercise is great for your heart, but can also be stressful, which can have negative impacts on your body. Instead of doing the treadmill, try playing with your cat. Playing with a cat is like doing cardio for your brain, and it’s also great for flexibility and improving your mood. There are plenty of games that you can play with a cat, including fetch, where you’ll use a toy that’s designed for cats. If you have a kitten, you can even start them off with a little kitten gym that will keep them fit, happy, and healthy.

Cats are a source of stress relief.

Cats have been proven to be excellent stress reducers. A 2014 study found that stroking a cat’s fur releases serotonin (aka the happy chemical) in your brain, which reduces stress and anxiety. As a result, cats are used in many therapy programs, particularly for senior and special needs patients, as they are low-maintenance, easy to care for, and great companions. Cats also purr when they are happy, which is a natural anti-depressant, which can help with anxiety and insomnia.

Cats help you sleep better.

Cats are nocturnal creatures, meaning that they sleep during the day and are awake at night. If you have trouble sleeping, having a cat in your room can help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more refreshed in the morning. Studies have shown that people who have a cat in their bedroom sleep more deeply and for longer than people who don’t have a feline friend sharing their bed. If you have trouble falling asleep, try reading in bed with your cat by your side. You should start to feel drowsy within 15 minutes, which means that you’ll be asleep before you know it.

They can be a child’s best friend.

Kids are often very picky about who they want to be friends with, but having a cat around the house can help encourage children to open up and make friends more easily. Having your child around a cat will help them develop their motor skills and make them less shy. Not only are cats good for your child’s health, but they’re also great for their social skills.

They help you de-clutter.

Cats are often known as “nature’s exterminators”, and they love to hunt and kill small creatures, such as mice and spiders. Having a cat around means that you won’t have to buy as many expensive traps or poisons, as your cat will take care of your rodent problems for you. Having a cat also makes you more aware of the state of your house, as you’ll need to regularly clean up after your feline friend. Regularly cleaning up after your cat will also help you de-clutter your home, as you’ll be more aware of what needs to be thrown out. Plus, you can use your cat’s fur and feathers as decorations, or even sell them at a yard sale or online.

They offer emotional support.

Cats are often described as “nervous” or “anxious” animals, and this is because they are very sensitive to the emotions of their owners. They are very attuned to human emotions, and will often react to your mood, becoming more affectionate when you are happy, and more reserved when you are sad. Having a cat in the house will help children deal with the loss of a loved one, and can also help adults who suffer from depression. Cats are incredibly sensitive, and they can pick up on your emotions, which means that they can be used to help with everything from sleep issues to anxiety.

Conclusion

There are numerous benefits to having a feline friend around the house. Cats are great companions and can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety. They can also be a child’s best friend and help an adult deal with depression. If you’ve been considering getting a cat, now is the best time ever! Now that you know the many benefits of having a cat, there’s no reason not to get one.