As responsible cat owners, there is a long list of things that we do for our cats to keep them happy, healthy and engaged. But, did you know there are many things your feline friend does for you every day?
In this video, we will talk about 16 things that your cat is doing for you.
They protect you when you sleep
Many cats are well aware that they, and their humans, are vulnerable when sleeping.
Sticking together during sleep is a means of protection and extra security for both you and them.
Another reason that cats like to sleep next to you is to share warmth. In the wild, animals living together often huddle to share body heat.
When your cat snuggles with you, they are seeking warmth and helping your stay warm.
Of course, cats also sleep with you to show you affection and love!
They make you more attractive
Survey findings conducted by British pet researchers have found that women were more likely to be attracted to men who like animals. Men who like cats are also more likely to be perceived by women as being nicer, more caring people.
They comfort you when you are sad
Cats can understand when their owners are sad or anxious through auditory and visual observations.
Many cats come in closer proximity when their humans are depressed. Some even purr and rub themselves more once they sense that their owner is feeling blue.
They greet you when you come home
Adult cats don't meow at each other. This means your cat has refined and kept up their meows just to communicate with you.
And the best thing is that your cat meows when they want to greet you. When you arrive home and your cat meows at you, they are simply saying Welcome Back.
They reduce your stress and anxiety
Cuddling and petting your cat produces a calm, relaxed feeling which is caused by the release of oxytocin in the brain. This feelgood chemical makes your body feel more peaceful and even helps to lower blood pressure.
This also translates to a decreased risk of heart disease. One study found that over a 10year period, cat owners were 30 percent less likely to die of a heart attack or stroke than noncat owners.
They heal your wounds and strengthen your bones
Purring sound has also been long associated with a therapeutic healing ability on human bones and muscle. A cat’s purr creates vibrations at a frequency of 25150 HZ, and studies have shown that frequencies within this range improve bone density, repair tendons, and promote healing.
They keep your pests under control
Not only will your cat hunt rodents, mice, and rats around your home, but they’re also natural insect killers. Having a cat in your home means you don’t have to worry about controlling rodents and insects in your house.
They check your cleanliness
Cats are very clean animals and they devote a large portion of their day to selfgrooming. When your cat licks you, they are trying to keep you clean.
But licking also fulfill your cat’s social functions.
When your cat licks you, they leave behind their distinct scent that lets other cats know that you belong to their social group.
They care for you when you are sick
Cats and dogs have an acute sense of smell, and so have the ability to sniff out a chemical change in a human body caused by a disease.
There are anecdotal reports that cats respond to a sick individual by becoming clingier, empathetic, and more attentive.
They help you live longer
There is scientific research that suggests cat owners live longer than those without pets. This is mainly because pets alleviate tension and help us relax. They keep loneliness at bay. They even help lower our blood pressure.
They keep your kids healthy
A study in the scientific journal Pediatrics has found that children who live with cats have a lower predisposition for general illness. Additionally, those who do end up becoming sick, recover more quickly. This is because having a pet stimulates and strengthens a child’s immune system and helps better protect against bacteria and viruses.
They help you sleep better
Sleeping with cats not only reinforces the bond we have between felines and humans, it has other benefits. They can help us relax, stay warm in winter, and provide emotional security, especially for kids. This translates into a pleasant and restful sleep.
They fulfill your need for companionship.
Cats offer constant cuddles that help stave off social isolation. Cats tend to develop a special bond and can be quite affectionate with their number one human.
They bring you food
Your cat may bring you presents — like a dead mouse.
The reason why cats bring dead animals to you is because they want to share their bounty with their family. Think of it as a sign of affection and love.
They boost your immune system
Sharing a home with a cat exposes you to pet dander which stimulates your immune system to help reduce the risks of allergies and asthma. According to studies, children that grow up with pets are less likely to develop allergies to pets.