Why You Need A Cat (or a Dog)
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We talk a lot about mental health—therapy, mindfulness, medication, sleep, exercise. All valid. All important. But there’s something else that’s often right in front of us, quietly doing the work: our pets. Especially cats and dogs. The impact they have isn’t just emotional—it’s physiological and deeply psychological. And it’s backed by science. Let’s start with what happens inside the body. When you spend time with a cat or dog , your brain and nervous system respond almost immediately. Cortisol levels drop. That’s the stress hormone that spikes during anxiety or burnout. At the same time, your brain releases oxytocin—a chemical that promotes feelings of trust, safety, and emotional connection. Your heart rate slows. Your blood pressure decreases. It’s a full-body reset, and it happens without any effort on your part. No breathing techniques, no guided apps—just connection. Cats and dogs help in different ways, depending on what you need. Cats tend to be more independent. They ...