Why Science Says Your Cat’s Purr Is the Ultimate Stress-Reliever (And How It Boosts Your Mood)

Having a cat at home in most cases means having unlimited anti-stress sessions after a hard day at work, but their impact is actually much bigger than many have thought so far.

Numerous researches about cats’ influence on their humans have been conducted in recent decades, proving that spending time with your furry friend actually substitutes a normal therapy session and, even more than that, makes you healthier.

Your Cat’s Purr Lowers Your Stress Hormone Level

According to multiple scientists, a cat’s purring makes both the cat and their human feel better physically and mentally.

Studies have shown that these sounds can actually lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels and increase serotonin (happiness hormone) levels in the human body. As a result, there can be a better mood, reduced anxiety and overall better emotional state.

Apart from that, cats can also help their owners battle depression: experts also claim that the cat’s purring has pretty much the same effect on a person with mild to moderate depression as a therapy session. This is explained by the fact that, during the human’s communication with their cat, a bigger amount of oxytocin is released into the blood, helping relax muscles and relieve pain.

You Cat’s Purr Can Also Help You Sleep Better

The long list of advantages of having a cat at home isn’t over yet, as the studies have also shown that the cat’s purring can have a calming effect on the human’s nervous system.

For instance, the purring can be compared to the white noise sounds which, in their turn, help to stay away from distracting thoughts. Some people have known this trick for quite some time and used their cat’s purring as a means to calm down and fall asleep after an anxious day.

Additionally, cat owners have a much lower risk of cardiovascular disease.