You Need to Cuddle Your Cat. There Are 16 Reasons Why It’s Good For Your Health
When was the last time your cat demanded your attention? Maybe they wake you up each morning with their soft little paws or insist on walking across your keyboard right when you’re tackling an important work deadline. Sure, it can be a little annoying, but after reading this, you might see it differently. Research has shown that cuddling your cat isn’t just adorable, but it’s actually great for your health! Next time they come looking for affection, you’ll have every reason to welcome those purrs.
Note: The content of this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice tailored to your individual circumstances.
It Offers Stress Relief
Cuddling your cat has immense health benefits, and at the top of the list is the power to melt down all your stress. When you hold and stroke your cat, you feel calm and soothe immediately. That’s the “cuddle chemical” or oxytocin released from your body.
Studies indicate that cuddling and petting pets can reduce stress-causing cortisol levels. So, take a kitty cuddle break the next time you feel overwhelmed!
Your Anxiety Would Vanish
If you are suffering from anxiety, then getting a pet might be the perfect antidote for you. When you pet your cat in a rhythmic pattern, it brings you into a meditative state, leading to a calm experience. This means that iteracting with pets can help reduce anxiety and stress, which may often come in handy. Keep this in mind next time your boss asks for a last-minute report!
Cuddling Improves Heart Health
Who knew that gratifying moments with your pet cat could improve your heart health? It means that not only does spending time with your cat make you happy, but it keeps you healthy, too. Think about it: With less stress and anxiety, your cholesterol levels and blood pressure will come down, and this will keep your heart healthy, a great news for the elderly.
You Bond Better Socially
Cuddling your cat isn’t just a one-way street; it also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. This mutual affection boosts your emotional well-being and can even help you feel more connected to others. Spending time with your cat improves social interaction and decreases the feeling of loneliness. So, next time you spend a Friday night at home, remember you are not alone.
Your Sleep Quality Improves
Good sleep can be attributed to eliminating worry and not feeling lonely. Cuddling with your cat can calm your mind and give you better sleep. If you have difficulty sleeping, why not try a feline sleep aid? Many cat owners can testify to the benefits of sleeping with a purring cat. Cats’ comfort and security can help you fall asleep deeply and more quickly.
It Helps Alleviate the Pain
Those extended hours of cuddling and playing with your cat can also help you with pain relief. That’s because of the release of endorphins (natural painkillers released from our bodies) that are released when you feel comforted by your cat. Pet therapy is said to aid in pain management. Who knows, it might benefit you, too!
So, the next time you are about to take a painkiller to relieve a terrible headache or chronic pain, try cuddling with your cat first.
Your Immunity Improves
Cuddling your cat can also have a positive impact on your immune system. The relaxation and stress reduction from spending time with your cat can lead to improved immune function. Stress is known to weaken the immune system, so reducing stress through cuddling can help keep you healthier and more resilient against illnesses. So, if this year you skipped the flu, you should probably thank your cat.
Cuddling Can Lift Your Mood
Are you feeling down? Your cat can help lift your spirits. Interacting with your cat can be a powerful mood lifter. A cat’s joy and companionship can significantly improve your mood and emotional state. Petting and cuddling your cat releases serotonin and dopamine, the happiness chemicals in your brain, which can significantly reduce stress and lift your spirits.
It Assists in Mindfulness
Cuddling your cat can also serve as a form of mindfulness practice. When you focus on the sensations of petting your cat—the softness of its fur, the warmth of its body, and the sound of its purr—you are brought into the present moment. The past and future disappear, and you are fully immersed in the now. This mindfulness practice can help clear your mind, reduce stress, and improve your mental clarity.
Lowers Blood Pressure
The soothing presence of a cat and the repetitive motion of petting can help reduce your blood pressure, promoting better cardiovascular health. Regular interaction with your cat can create a sense of calm and stability, further aiding in maintaining healthy blood pressure. Additionally, this calming effect can contribute to a lower risk of hypertension-related complications.
Alleviates Depression
When you spend time with your cat, your body produces serotonin, the “happy hormone,” and reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol, thereby helping to alleviate symptoms of depression. Cat companionship provides a sense of purpose and belonging, which is particularly beneficial for those struggling with loneliness. Furthermore, cats’ playful antics and affectionate behavior can bring joy and laughter, lifting your spirits.
Promotes Healing
The vibrations of a cat’s purr can have therapeutic effects, helping to heal bones and tissues. This phenomenon, known as the “purr therapy,” can promote physical healing. Studies suggest that frequencies between 25 and 150 Hz, common in a cat’s purr, can increase bone density and accelerate healing. Moreover, this natural therapy is non-invasive and can complement traditional medical treatments.
Great Against Loneliness
Cuddling your cat can also be great when feeling lonely and isolated. Unfortunately, in today’s society, so many people feel like they don’t belong, as social media has made us more disconnected than ever. Having a pet faithfully waiting for you at home every night can give you a good companion with whom to share your life, helping you feel less lonely whenever your friends aren’t there.
Focus On What Matters
Giving attention to your cat during difficult times can also be a good reminder of what truly matters in life. For instance, you may feel stressed because of work, sad because of the end of a relationship, or just overwhelmed by life. The mindful activity of petting your cat may help you refocus your thoughts on what truly matters, such as your many friends and relatives and your health.
A Healthy Distraction
Have you ever gotten stuck in a negative loop? For instance, you may be concerned about your finances and make a hundred calculations every few hours to determine whether you can keep paying rent in your house. Of course, these issues are serious and should be dealt with. However, sometimes, we all deserve a break from these negative loops. This is when your cat can come to the rescue. Cuddle your kitty for some time and get distracted.
Keeps Their Coat Clean
Petting your cat isn’t just a bonding moment for you, it’s great for their fur, too! Gentle stroking helps distribute natural oils across their coat, keeping it shiny and healthy. It also removes loose hair and dirt, reducing shedding and preventing mats from forming. Your gentle touch stimulates blood flow to their skin, promoting overall coat health and leaving your cat looking and feeling fabulous.
So, next time you need a little pick-me-up, remember that a cuddle with your cat is good for your heart and soul. So, give your kitty an extra cuddle today—it’s good for both of you!
