Meet Maru.
Maru is a Japanese cat famous for the fact that he has a crazy obsession with boxes.
ALL boxes, whether he can fit in them or not.
So, let’s take an informal poll- how did those videos make you feel?
If you’re like most people, you probably got happier as a result of watching those videos. Recent studies have shown that watching cat videos on the net actually *improves* your health.
Check out this article at Live Science: Internet Cat Videos Keep You Purring, Study Finds
It’s not only cat videos that improve people’s health- interaction with cats (and other animals) has also been proven to improve health.
– As you spend time with animals, the level of cortisol in your brain (basically the stress chemical) decreases and the level of serotonin (the well-being chemical) increases. Even a little bit goes a long way.
– Petting your cat has been shown to bring down blood pressure and heart rate. In fact, studies have shown that cat owners are 40% less likely to die from heart disease than people who had never owned a cat.
– Cats also prevent strokes- while scientists haven’t pinpointed the exact reason for this, it’s been shown that cat owners have improved circulation. The speculation is that because cats have a calming effect on their owners, it improved overall blood flow through the body. Cats also present an opportunity for stress-less focus- spending time with and focusing on your cat gives you *less* time to worry about external stressors.
– Cat owners are more likely to connect with other cat owners, improving social bonds, which improves brain health. If you ever need an instant conversation booster, all you have to do is ask “how is your cat?” to another cat owner and you’re set for the evening 😉
– Cats actually *help* with allergies and asthma. Children who grow up in houses with cats develop an immunity to allergens. This also boosts overall immune system health.
– For those with arthritis, cats can provide a perfect impetus to stretch more, which helps strengthen the body. Some doctors are recommending their patient monitor their cats, and stretch exactly when and how they do. Cats are champion stretchers!
– Playtime with your cat also improves physical health. For those with limited movement and lobility, a cat is the perfect playmate. They don’t require as much movement as larger, more active animals, and simple activities like waving a wand or throwing a toy can be greatly beneficial for those with joint issues.
– When a cat lays on or near you, the body heat can actually soothe sore muscles, tender joints, and relieve pain.
– Cats can also help with Alzheimer’s- it’s been shown that Alzheimer’s patients with a cat in their home have fewer bouts of anxiety and outbursts due to anxiety. The calming presence of a cat often acts as a signal that “all is well” to the brain.
Whether you simply enjoy cat videos on YouTube or actually are lucky enough to share your life with one or several cats, the benefits are very clear- cats make life better.
Are you looking for a new feline companion to make *your* life better? We’ll be at Petsmart in Naples, Florida this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, from 11am to 3pm. If you’re looking for a furry friend, it’s a great opportunity to meet some beautiful, loving cats. We hope to see you there.
Have a great weekend!