Cats are known as cute and quirky animals, but did you know that they also have healing properties? Owning a cat is a rewarding experience that many people find therapeutic. This may simply be because you are happy with their company or because you enjoy the potential therapeutic benefits of their purring.
This article discusses the healing potential of cats and the research on them.
Is it true that cats have healing powers?
Cats are believed to heal us both mentally and physically in many ways. Additionally, research suggests that cats may heal themselves by purring at certain frequencies.
Some people find that owning a cat provides a sense of security, enriching companionship, and makes them feel happier and less stressed. Stress can have all kinds of negative effects on our bodies and minds, so finding ways to reduce stress can be of great benefit to most people.
Cats can provide comfort when we feel anxious and allow us to build connections based on mutual trust and unconditional love. This may help you feel less alone and help you feel supported when you’re not feeling well.
Apart from the psychological aspect, cats may also physically soothe us through their purring. Some studies suggest that cat purrs have healing frequencies that may speed up the healing process of bone fractures.
Two ways cats heal us
1. Reduce cardiovascular risk
Over the past few decades, several studies have been conducted on cats’ healing abilities.Research featured in Today’s medical news We discussed how cats can reduce their risk of heart attack by almost a third.
These results were discovered after a decade of research by researchers at the University of Minnesota Research Institute in Minneapolis. This is probably because cats play a role in relieving us of stress and lowering blood pressure.
Researchers found that about 30% of cat owners had a lower risk of dying from a heart attack than non-cat owners. The study also found that people who did not currently own a cat but had owned one in the past were at reduced risk. However, the researchers acknowledged that cat owners may be at lower risk due to lifestyle factors other than how they own their cat.
2002 survey1 They looked at the effects of cardiovascular activity on pet owners (including cats and dogs) and found similar results to a 2009 study. The study concluded that owning a pet has positive cardiovascular benefits by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and lowering heart rate.
2. Improved mental health
One of the many benefits of owning a cat may be improved mental health. Spending time with your cat can help you feel calmer and reduce stress. Some may think this is evidence of cats’ healing energy.
In 2011, members of the Mental Health Foundation and Cat Rescue UK surveyed 600 cat owners and non-cat owners. The results showed that around 33% of cat owners feel that petting their cat calms them down. Approximately 87% of owners reported that they felt their cat had a positive impact on their health. What’s more, 76% said having a cat as a companion helps them cope in life.
A 2018 study looked at how pets can support people living with mental health problems. Although more research is needed, this study found that owning a pet may be beneficial to our mental health. This is because pets (such as cats) can provide us with emotional support and connection, helping us better manage our mental health.
conclusion
Although researchers need more evidence to fully understand how cats heal, many owners do not doubt the healing “power” of cats. Not only do cats purr at frequencies that promote bone density and healing, but they also potentially affect us.
Positive effects on stress and anxiety may also help improve certain cardiovascular diseases and improve mental health. The benefits of owning a cat should not be overlooked, especially since they can have a positive impact on our health and mental well-being.
Featured image credit: Everymmnt, Shutterstock
