Combat The Epidemic of Loneliness By Adopting A Cat

Combat the Epidemic Of Loneliness By Adopting A Cat

If you are reading this article in 2020, chances are you have experienced lock down restrictions due to COVID-19. While the world is facing a pandemic, Americans are facing an epidemic of loneliness. Not only do the restrictions in place isolate Americans, but according to Time.com, “...American households with just one person has been rising for the last 50 years”. This is significant because during a pandemic that calls for social distancing, people are unable to escape isolation and are left feeling higher rates of loneliness. This article is going to outline reasons why adopting a cat to remedy your loneliness might be the best idea that you have had all year. You might be wondering why a cat? Just keep reading, and your questions, will be answered!

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Dogs Are Great, But Cats Are Better

Hear me out, dogs are great! I love dogs! I grew up in a house where we always had a pet dog and I would not trade those memories for the world. However, I am not fond of the responsibilities that come with being a dog parent. For example, having to let your dog outside to take care of business just so they can pick up fleas and dirt, that will be brought back indoors and eventually, into the bed. Yuck, no thanks! Not to mention, regardless the condition of the weather, your dog will still need you to take them out for a walk or potty break. (As I write this, it is pouring rain outside and my three cats have gathered to look out the window in wonder. Spare yourself. What would you do in this situation if you had a dog?) To some degree it is doable to adpot a dog instead of a cat during this pandemic, that is until lock down restrictions are over, and you have to go back to the office for work. Cats do not mind if you have to leave them for work. In fact, they need their space as much as you need your own. See Mutual Companionship for more… Bringing a dog into your home can cause disruptions in your day to day life, whereas owning a cat, you might not even notice they are there. Avoid the mess and stress! Get a cat!

Adopt, Don’t Shop

Now is your chance to make a difference in your community by adopting a cat from your local shelter. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, I have seen several shelters encouraging people to come and adopt by waving certain adoption fees. This is a win-win, because it saves a life and saves some coin! Tip #1: Call before you go, as pandemic lock down restrictions are frequently changed. Tip #2: (This tip assumes you are adopting a kitten.) When I adopted my kittens, the shelter promised to spay/neuter and also to pay for the 'first year of life' vaccinations. Check to see if the shelter you visit has similar accommodations, if they are partnered with a veterinary clinic, or if they are able to give you a print out of what your kitten will need for their first year of life.

Healing Powers of The Purr

According to Scientific American, “Cats purr during both inhalation and exhalation with a consistent pattern and frequency between 25 and 150 Hertz. Various investigators have shown that sound frequencies in this range can improve bone density and promote healing.” If you were not convinced before, are you meow? I mean, are you now? Not to mention, what is more heartwarming and relaxing than the soft, melodic sound of a cat’s purr? I’ll wait…

Mutual Companionship

Cats are the perfect pet companion for the person who does not want to be lonely but wants to be alone sometimes. Do not feel bad about having this type of relationship with your cat. Cats feel the same way. Truth be told, you are not going to have a very good relationship with your cat unless you let them decide when they want company. Trust me, when your cat finally comes around and rubs against your legs or curls up in your lap, it will cure your loneliness and you will wonder why you did not adopt a cat sooner. Tip #3: Having two cats is great, especially if they are close in age. This way they will be able to keep one another entertained and exercised! Watch this video to see an example of normal play behavior between two bonded cats.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety & Lowers Chance of Heart Disease

University of Minnesota conducted a study, utilizing the data of 4,000 people, that enabled researchers to be able to draw positive health connections to the ownership of a cat. According to Elite Daily, “After analyzing the data, the researchers found that cat owners, overall, had a 30 percent lower risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke compared to people who didn't own a cat, even when accounting for factors like smoking, diabetes, heart health, and cholesterol levels.” This study demonstrates the power of having a relationship with your cat and how it positively impacts your health. If you needed another reason as to why you should adopt a cat, here it is.

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If you are experiencing the current epidemic of loneliness, you should consider adopting a cat. If lock down restrictions become a normal part of our lives, a lot of us are going to continue to have no choice but to be isolated. The presence of a cat in the home can aid in alleviating stress and allow you to have a meaningful connection that will keep loneliness at bay. On the same note, if lock down restrictions ease up after adopting a cat, returning to work or leaving your cat alone will not disrupt your relationship with your cat or quality of life for your cat. Charles Dickens said it best when he said, “What greater gift than the love of a cat.” Do not miss out on this love, adopt a cat today!