Benefits of Having a Cat

Scientists have been investigating for decades what cat lovers already know well: just how beneficial cats can be to their humans. Here are some benefits of having a cat you can point to when someone says, “It’s just a cat” — or maybe you just want to quietly forward this to their inbox. No judgment here.

1. Tranquility and quiet

When the world moves at the speed of light, being able to come home and relax at the end of a long day is priceless. Getting to spend that relaxation knowing there is a furry friend in the corner napping soundly makes the experience 10 times better.  

Cats are naturally quiet creatures. Without the occasional “meow” for food or a brush of your leg with their tail, you might not even know they’re there. The effortless way they can saunter into the room creates a soothing atmosphere that will bring you peace of mind. And that is invaluable.

2. Routine

Cats are creatures who love a routine. It gives them a huge sense of stability knowing how the day will go. Not only is this great for cats, but when you create a routine around your pet, it helps provide structure to your life. Sometimes it can be hard to get out of bed. But knowing there is a deserving, meowing fur ball waiting for their breakfast makes it so much easier to get up. When you create a routine for your cat, they create a routine for you. And everyone wins.

3. Purring frequency that can heal

When you hear a cat purring, it often signals peace and comfort. But beyond the comfort, there is research to back that they might actually be healing you. With a purring frequency between 25 and 140 hz, cats could have the potential to heal wounds, soft tissue, and even bones. Similar frequencies have been used to heal injuries in the human body, suggesting cats could actually cure our ailments.

4. Better sleep

Who wouldn’t want a cute, warm, furry friend in bed with them? Well, beyond the cuteness, having your cat near you as you drift off could actually improve the overall quality of your sleep.

5. Low maintenance

Sometimes it can feel hard enough to get up, groom and feed ourselves, and get out the door. Now add a furry friend to the mix, and not only are they another mouth to feed but another life to cater to and nurture.  

Luckily for you, when it comes to grooming and cleanliness, cats are often low maintenance. They take care of a lot of their own grooming. And your home, outfitted with some cat toys, can provide a world of wonder that will keep them entertained for hours. Pair consistent food and water with a loving hand caressing their back every now and then, and you’ve got a very happy cat.  

6. Independence

Paired with their low-maintenance lifestyle is many cats’ bold and empowering sense of independence. This is great for when you need to leave for a few hours and want to make sure they’ll be able to care for themselves. And if you come home and don’t want to be swarmed immediately with slobbery kisses, cats will peacefully acknowledge your presence and continue on their way.  

Their independence is also great for the bond that you build with them. It can take time to earn a cat’s trust. Their independence means they don’t need you. So when they want your love and attention, it’s a real honor. It’s a special love. 

7. Bragging rights (maybe)

While cat lovers can be associated with stereotypes like introversion and aloofness, these traits might be signaling something much greater. Researchers have been looking into the qualities of people with pets and self-described cat lovers and dog lovers. While there is quite a bit of overlap, cat lovers specifically have scored higher on intelligence tests and generally reached a higher level of education than dog lovers.  

Certainly, this does not make all cat lovers smarter than their dog counterparts, but it could signal their preferences — heightened levels of curiosity and openness to new experiences. Still, there is a lot of diversity among “cat people,” so whether you should go bragging about your higher intelligence, we can’t say.  

8. Decreased risk of cardiovascular disease  

When scientists studied 4,435 participants, 55% reported either currently or previously having a cat. Following these participants over 20 years, it was found that cats significantly reduced their humans’ levels of stress and blood pressure. As a result, these people’s risk of cardiovascular diseases was lower. We can certainly feel that shift of reduced stress when we’re around cats.

9. Mental health support

Some people have noted anecdotally that they can concentrate better in the presence of their cat, but it goes further than this. Researchers are finding that cats are promoting emotional resiliency at all levels. From procrastinating with cat videos to curling up with a cat at the end of the day, cats are calming their people and bringing a sense of presence. This means overall mental health is supported by the presence of a cat.

In fact, some people have been so amazed by their cat’s therapeutic potential that they are getting their cats certified. We saw this in action with one special cat named Hercules. As a therapy cat, Hercules supported Alzheimer's patients and others in need, improving the quality of life of those he interacted with.

10. All-natural pest control

Cats have a keen eye, lending to their hunting prowess. And even if they don’t partake, their presence could be warning enough to prevent pests from remaining in or entering the home. Many commercial spaces, from breweries to barns, provide homes for cats — especially those who might not thrive in a typical home environment. And in turn, these cats provide natural pest control. If you think a working cat might be right for you, check out Best Friends' working cat adoption program.  

Aside from these benefits, cats are simply great companions. They’re hilarious, unique, and deeply loving creatures.

Adopting or fostering your next cat, rather than purchasing from a breeder or pet store, can be incredibly beneficial not only to you but to countless other lives, too. Fostering and adopting make a big difference for our feline friends. For each cat you take out of the shelter, you make room for another life to be saved –– meaning you can save at least two lives with each foster or adoption placement, making your bond with your cat even stronger.

Having a cat is so special. We hope you accept these cat benefits proudly, as you can now claim you are the healthiest version of yourself when you have a cat by your side. If you’re ready to bring home a cat of your own (and nail your next doctor's appointment), head to bestfriends.org/adopt to view adoptable cats from Best Friends, as well as animal shelters and rescue groups near you.