When we look for allies to combat the stress, depression, or isolation that accompanies various illnesses, we often think of service dogs. However, the world of emotional assistance has a stealthy and underrated champion: the emotional support cat (or, more commonly, the Emotional Support Animal or ESA).
Felines offer a unique and profound form of therapeutic aid, based on calmness, companionship, and connection.
The Scientific Effect of Feline Therapy on Depression
A cat’s presence has a direct biological impact on human health, backed by various studies:
- Stress Regulator: Petting your cat or listening to its purr is an act your body appreciates. Your brain releases oxytocin (the “love hormone”) while decreasing cortisol (the stress hormone). Your cat is an instant emotional regulator.
- The Purr: The low-frequency vibration of the purr has even been associated with bone and muscle healing, acting as a potent balm.
- Emotional Anchoring: For someone suffering from depression or PTSD, a service animal (cat) serves as an anchoring point (grounding). Their daily needs (feeding, play) oblige the person to get up and focus on an external responsibility, breaking the cycle of inactivity.
How Does a Cat Assist an Ill Person or Someone with Anxiety?
The cat’s assistance manifests through its instinct and routine behaviour:
- Unconditional Companionship: They offer a non-critical and constant presence. Cats help with depression and anxiety by curling up in moments of sadness, giving a comfort that words cannot provide.
- Alerting to Changes: Some service cats are so sensitive that they notice subtle physiological changes in their owners, potentially alerting them to an imminent anxiety attack or seizures through meows or unusual behaviours.
- Routine: Cats are creatures of habit. Caring for them becomes small milestones of achievement that structure the day of a person with low spirits, a key tool against depressive symptoms.
How Does a DNA Test Help Service Cats?
True mutual assistance by emotional support cats is achieved when, besides benefiting from their presence, you use scientific knowledge to protect them.
There is a popular theory that suggests cats help with depression and anxiety, based on the positive effects observed in daily interaction.
Our feline DNA test is the best preventative tool because it allows you to:
- Anticipate Illnesses: We detect the predisposition to common feline pathologies. Thus, you can talk to your vet to take preventative measures (special diet, medical monitoring).
- Understand Their Origin: Get to know them to deepen that unparalleled bond:
- Physical Traits: A large part of your cat’s physical traits are determined by their genes.
- Breed Traits: Find out your cat’s origin—perhaps it’s time to confirm your companion’s lineage.
- Personalise Their Care: We transform genetic information into tailored wellness plans.
Get your Cat DNA Test today and transform affection into informed action. Look after the one who looks after you!