GREENSBORO, N.C. — Dogs rule, and cats drool? Not necessarily, and the health benefits of frisky felines might have you running to the shelter to adopt a cat in need.
VERIFY QUESTION
Good Morning Show viewer Wanda Creedle asked, "I was wondering how your pet cat can help you with the health of its owners. Everyone is always talking about their pet dogs, so I was just wondering if they were the same or a little different in owner's health?"
VERIFY SOURCE
- Janine Oliver, DVM - Benessere Animal Hospital
VERIFY PROCESS
Veterinarian Janine Oliver said, "The short answer is yes. They (cats) can be as helpful as dogs in diminishing depression. Just petting a cat can increase oxytocin levels -- that's a bonding hormone that helps you feel more connected and content."
Dr. Oliver explained having a cat or dog can decrease loneliness and thereby reduce the risk of depression and Alzheimer's. And, a child who has a dog or cat in the first year of life is less likely to become allergic to dogs or cats later in life. As for cats, specifically, Dr. Oliver said petting a cat can decrease your heart rate and blood pressure.
"So, overall, it decreases your stress. People who have cats are less likely than people without cats to have strokes and heart attacks. It's a small percentage but has been found to be statistically significant."
VERIFY CONCLUSION
Yes, a cat is just as beneficial as a dog in improving the physical and mental health of its owner.
You can find adoptable pets every week on WFMY 2 The Rescue.
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