Why do hundreds of millions of people around the world like to raise cats?

More than 46 million households in the US are keeping cats as pets in their homes - Photo: helpguide.org

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), research shows that cats can provide emotional support, improve mood, and help owners feel more cheerful.

However, while cats are wonderful companions, cat owners should be aware that cats can sometimes carry harmful pathogens that cause a variety of illnesses in humans, ranging from mild skin infections to serious medical conditions.

Therefore, the CDC advises cat owners to wash their hands thoroughly after playing with, cleaning, or feeding their cats, take their cats to the vet regularly, and follow other safe pet care practices.

It is clear that raising cats has benefits but also brings risks, but why do millions of people around the world still like to raise cats?

Raising cats brings mental benefits

According to Los Angeles-based mental health nonprofit HelpGuide.org, owning a cat can bring unconditional love and companionship into your life.

A “feline friend” can also provide health benefits, helping to reduce stress and improve your heart health.

"Contestants" at a cat contest in Hanoi in 2022 - Photo: LAM NGOC

“Although cats are independent animals that like to explore and discover on their own, they are also very affectionate with their owners and the people they trust,” according to the article The joys of owning a cat posted on HelpGuide.org .

“Most cats love to curl up on your lap after a long day while you watch TV or read a book. This simple act can cause your brain to automatically release all the right chemicals, allowing you to relax in the evening and forget about the troubles of the outside world.”

Flexibility is also one of the reasons why people like to raise cats, whether it is a big house or a small apartment, the owner can still easily live with his pet cat.

Even in a city apartment there are enough nooks and crannies to keep a cat busy for hours.

In addition, cats do not require too much, "saving" the owner the trouble of walking, training, and regular brushing...

One of the things that makes people love to keep cats is that they are very quiet.

Cats tend to “meow” when they are hungry, but you rarely have to worry about being woken or distracted when your cat needs attention.

This makes them ideal pets if you work from home or have small children at home.

Cats are also very independent, they are there for you when you need them but are also very good at entertaining themselves.

Additionally, according to the US CDC, cats have also been shown to promote socialization in older adults and people with physical or mental disabilities.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/tai-sao-hang-tram-trieu-nguoi-tren-the-gioi-thich-nuoi-meo-20240416195540838.htm