National Adopt a Cat: Meowtastic reasons for owning a cat

My first pet was a dog, A beautifully rambunctious German Shepard named Pepi. We had to get rid of her because our home and ourselves were too small for her energy. We opted for a second dog, a cute rottweiler mix named George. Both George and Pepi met untimely deaths. My mother decided we were no longer going to be a dog family, but an unexpected cat family. Our sweet orange tabby, Tommy, was my best friend and he began the tradition of my owning cats.

Yes, I know, there are cat people, there are dog people, and there are animal lovers. I am by nature a cat person, but love my dogs, horses, pigs, birds, and so forth. Funny enough we are more similar in makeup to cats than dogs due to our brain makeup. Since this month is National Cat Month, I thought I’d encourage you all with some fun facts about owning cats.

Less Stress and Anxiety

The number one benefit for owning cats is that they have been clinically proven to relieve stress and anxiety. They help release oxytocin in humans, therefore creating a more harmonious and tranquil enviornment.

BETTER CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

If you could reduce your risk of a heart attack by as much as 40% just by owning a cat, wouldn’t you? Studies have shown that owning a cat decreases heart problems.

Improved immune system function

Cats help strengthen your immune system and can potentially reduce the risk of certain allergies and autoimmune disorders by introducing associated microorganisms and bacteria. They may also reduce allergies if you grow up with them.