More than 46 million households in the US are keeping cats as pets in their homes - Photo: helpguide.org
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), research shows that cats can provide emotional support, improve mood, and help owners feel more cheerful.
However, while cats are wonderful companions, cat owners should be aware that cats can sometimes carry harmful pathogens that cause a variety of illnesses in humans, ranging from mild skin infections to serious medical conditions.
Therefore, the CDC recommends that cat owners wash their hands thoroughly after playing with, cleaning up after, or feeding their cats, take their cats to the veterinarian for regular checkups, and follow other safe pet care practices.
It is clear that raising cats has benefits but also risks, but why do millions of people around the world still like to raise cats?
Raising cats brings mental benefits
According to Los Angeles-based mental health nonprofit HelpGuide.org, owning a cat can bring unconditional love and companionship into your life.
A “feline friend” can also provide health benefits, helping to reduce stress and improve your heart health.
"Contestants" at a cat contest in Hanoi in 2022 - Photo: LAM NGOC
“Although cats are independent animals that like to explore and discover on their own, they are also very affectionate with their owners and those they trust,” according to the article The joys of owning a cat posted on HelpGuide.org .
“Most cats love to curl up on your lap after a long day while you watch TV or read a book. This simple act can cause your brain to automatically release all the right chemicals, allowing you to relax for the evening and forget about the troubles of the outside world.”
Flexibility is also one of the reasons why people like to raise cats. Whether it's a big house or a small apartment, the owner can still easily live with their pet cat.
Even an apartment in the city has enough nooks and crannies to keep a cat busy for hours.
In addition, cats do not require too much, "saving" the owner from having to take them for walks, train them, and brush their fur regularly...
One of the things that makes people love cats is that they are very quiet.
Cats tend to “meow” when they are hungry, but you rarely have to worry about being woken up or distracted when your cat needs attention.
This makes them ideal pets if you work from home or have small children at home.
Cats are also very independent, they are there for you when you need them but are also very good at entertaining themselves.
Additionally, according to the US CDC, cats have also been noted to promote socialization in older adults and people with physical or mental disabilities.
Raising cats brings happiness hormonesSource
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