August 8th is International Cat Day, a day to celebrate our beloved furry friends.
Since 2002, thanks to the International Fund for Animal Welfare, cats have their own holiday.
There are cat lovers all over the world! In both the United States and Australia, about 30% of households have a cat. Similarly, about 38% of households in Canada and 25% in the UK have a cat.
Just how many cats are there in the world? Good question! Including feral (free-roaming) cats, estimates range from 220 million to 660 million! In the US and Canada alone, there are about 83 million cats.
Cats became domesticated about 12,000 years ago, and in a very unique way. As humans moved from a hunter-gatherer to agricultural lifestyle, cats took advantage and moved in to hunt rodents in granaries. Cats essentially chose to live with humans! Early farmers recognized the important role that cats played in vermin management. It was a win-win situation – cats got free food and people got free pest control!
Ancient Egyptians likely saw this benefit too, and the cat became a respected animal in Egyptian culture. It is well documented that cats were part of Egyptian family life, pampered, and adorned with jewels. Cats were so valued that the penalty for killing a cat in ancient Egypt was death.
Today, cats are often considered members of our families. They bring joy to our lives and offer many health benefits – aside from vermin control!
Studies have shown that cat owners have better psychological health than those without pets. Adults and children alike report feeling happier, more positive, and relaxed with a cat as part of the family.
Cats are stress reducers. Cat owners generally have a lower resting heart rate and blood pressure than people without cats. Cats can also reduce the risk of various heart diseases, including stroke.
Can they help with allergies? Yes! Exposure to cats early in life can help reduce allergies, including allergies to ragweed, dust mites, and grass.
Several studies in the UK have found that people sleep better with a cat than with their human partner. How could you not sleep better with a purring fur-ball curled up beside you?
For those who are wanting to welcome a cat into their home, what better time to adopt a cat from your local shelter or cat rescue. By doing so, you can provide a lucky cat a lifetime of love and safety and perhaps even improve your own well-being while you’re at it!
Aside from the obvious love your cat gives you, there are many benefits of owning a cat. So, give your cat an extra snuggle or belly rub. Buy them a new toy or brush their hair. August 8th is a time to celebrate our favorite feline friends.
LifeLearn News
Note: This article, written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written permission of Lifelearn. Please note that the news information presented here is NOT a substitute for a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian.
