When you meet Juliana Garofalo, one of the first facts you’ll learn is that she loves cats. She’s not alone in her affection for furry felines, and scientific research has even shown that cats can offer humans numerous mental health benefits.
Garofalo recently discussed the findings of several studies proving that cats can help improve mental health.
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Cats Relieve Stress
Stress and anxiety are prevalent in modern times, but cats can come to the rescue. Spending time with a cat and petting them has been proven to produce hormones that reduce stress. It can also lower blood pressure and heart rate while normalizing anxiety levels.
They Provide Companionship
Life can be lonely at times for anyone, but having a cat at home can help reduce feelings of lonesomeness. They provide companionship that helps the owner feel loved and purposeful. Many times, the positive relationship of cat ownership can help offset the effects of negative relationships in a person’s life.
A Cat’s Purr Is Healing
Research has proven that a cat’s purr can be therapeutic. The vibration range is between 20 and 140 Hz, a vibration level that can lower stress, reduce blood pressure, slow labored breathing, and provide other physical and mental health benefits.
“Anyone who has ever returned from a difficult work day to lounge around with their cat can tell you how relaxing their purrs can be,” Juliana Garofalo said. “It is not a surprise that research shows the healing benefits are true.”
Cats Can Be Therapy Animals
Dogs get most of the credit for being effective therapy animals. However, research shows that cats serve as excellent therapy animals too. Dogs and cats provide similar relaxation effects for individuals with PTSD, dementia, traumas, seizures, and other illnesses.
Garofalo explained that cats do not serve as substitutions for certain therapies and medications. However, they can offer healing qualities in addition to doctor-prescribed treatments. There is no denying their positive effects on a person’s mental and physical health.
Juliana’s Passion for Animals
Juliana Garofalo is an animal lover who believes that animals can help humans as much as humans can help animals. She promotes the adoption of pets from shelters, Humane Societies, and other organizations instead of buying from breeders.
“One way we can give back to animals for all the benefits they provide us is through adopting instead of shopping,” Garofalo said. “Stop by your local Humane Society or animal shelter before visiting a pet store or breeders. You’ll likely find the perfect addition to your home, an animal that can help you as much as you help them.”
