Stress Management and Pets
Wednesday August 23, 2006
Have you ever noticed that in times of stress, your cats seem to know something is wrong, and will come around to cuddle? I've noticed that with our cats, and the tight neck and shoulder muscles just seem to melt when a furball jumps on my lap.
Elizabeth Scott, About.com's Guide to Stress Management has made the same observation, and explores further with her article which lists six ways pets can relieve stress.
Elizabeth says, While human friends provide great social support and come with some fabulous benefits, this article focuses on the benefits of furry friends: cats and dogs! Research shows that, unless you're someone who really dislikes animals or is absolutely too busy to care for one properly, pets can provide excellent social support, stress relief and other health benefits--perhaps more than people!
So the next time you're feeling like you're going to pop, don't reach for the aspirin bottle; reach for a cat, instead.
Elizabeth Scott, About.com's Guide to Stress Management has made the same observation, and explores further with her article which lists six ways pets can relieve stress.
Elizabeth says, While human friends provide great social support and come with some fabulous benefits, this article focuses on the benefits of furry friends: cats and dogs! Research shows that, unless you're someone who really dislikes animals or is absolutely too busy to care for one properly, pets can provide excellent social support, stress relief and other health benefits--perhaps more than people!
So the next time you're feeling like you're going to pop, don't reach for the aspirin bottle; reach for a cat, instead.
Comments
Recently, my sister-in-law had to have her ancient cat put to sleep. While she was in the waiting area, one of the vet’s three resident cats came and jumped on her lap; the personnel in the office said that he regularly visits with people who are there, having their cats or dogs put down. He’s pretty stand-offish otherwise, but he seems to know when someone needs consolation.
I have two chronic illnesses that cause chronic pain. When ever I have a bad day where I feel miserable, my cat comes and walks along my body and she will lay down against the part that is causing me the most pain. It is like having a portable heating pad. She will also come and sit/lay down next to me when I am really stressed. Last year when my Grandfather passed a way she didn’t leave my side while I was at home. It always amazes me when she can tell when I need a little cat love.