Cats Are Great Therapy For Depression

If you share your home with a cat, I'm sure you'll know that they are great companions.

They unknowingly offer therapy to us on many levels - but could a cat or kitten's purr help with your depression? - It might. Studies show that animals can reduce tension and improve mood.


Along with treatment, pets can help some people with mild to moderate depression feel better.

A Cat's Guide To Taking Care Of Your Human



 If you're depressed here are some ways that pets could help.

1. Unconditional Friendship Cats don't ask for anything, they don't judge us or make demands. There's nothing complicated about a relationship with a cat. This is reassuring for children who sometimes feel afraid or anxious about making or maintaining friendships at school.
2. Responsibility And Routine Cats need to be fed at certain times each day and the litter box requires scooping. The sense of feeling needed is another benefit to taking care of cats. Having a daily schedule helps people with depression. An animal's natural routine, waking you in the morning, demanding food or walks can help you stay on track.
3. Companionship. Depression can isolate you. It can make you pull back from your friends and loved ones. If you have a pet, you're never alone. That can really make a difference.
4. Social interaction. Having a pet can gently push you to get more social contact. Pets are natural icebreakers and other pet owners love to talk about their animals.
5. Touch. Studies show that people feel better when they have physical contact with others. Pets offer something similar. There's something naturally soothing about petting a cat on your lap.

Multiple studies show that a pet can help reduce stress and even lower blood pressure. For those who live with depression or anxiety, pets can truly be an integral part of getting through the day and overcoming challenges. This is true for both adults and children.