“The Love That Cures (Solving the Mystery of How Animals Keep Us Healthy)

New research confirms and expands earlier studies indicating a link between pet ownership and a reduced risk of developing heart disease. Results of studies have shown a reduction in triglycerides and cholesterol levels as well as lower systolic blood pressure readings for pet owners rather than non pet owners.When examining the results, researchers tried to determine if there was some factor other than pet ownership that was influencing the outcome. Not so.  A look at lifestyle risk factors also failed to turn up any evidence that could have influenced the findings. Pet owners reported that they were more active, but they also drank more alcohol and ate more take-out food.  While studies continue…pet owners can look at their animal companions with even greater appreciation for the ways they enrich their lives. Animals also give us a much-needed natural outlet for touching and cuddling – especially to those who live alone. So…the next time you find yourself tense or irritable, take a few minutes to play with your pet. You may find that animal companionship is a wonderful prescription for healthy relaxation!

Playtime is important for your cat

Playing is fun, right? So why do we need to know anything else about it, surely that’s is all there is to it. Well it’s true that the main reason we might play with our cat is because it is something fun to do, but for your cat it has a far more important role and is key to their general mental and physical well being. This means that it should be something that all cat owners should spend a little more time thinking about and incorporating into their every day cat care routine, rather than as an occasional playtime.A good substitute to hunting is therefore energetic chasing, stalking and pouncing playtimes, where the cat can engage all their natural instincts into the game and feel stimulated by the play. Unfortunately just leaving a motionless cat toy lying around just doesn’t meet those requirements, so it is important for cat owners to interact with their cats during playtimes. Ideally you should play with your cat at least a couple of times a day for about 10 to 15 minutes each time
Playing with your cat as you can see is much more than just a fun thing to do, it will promote confidence, fitness, reduce boredom and aggression and generally help in your cats over all mental and physical health. As an added bonus, regular play between you and your cat will strengthen the bond you have with each other. Your cat will associate you with fun and excitement and will seek your company out more often than with someone who just feeds them. Over all playtime will benefit everyone involved and should be encouraged throughout a cat lifetime