Can Having a Cat Save Your Life?
Can having a cat save your life? Your fuzzy feline might think so, and a new study shows that, over a 20 year period, cat owners are 40% less likely to die of a heart attack and 30% less likely to die of any cardiovascular disease, including stroke, heart failure and chronic heart disease, than people who have never had a cat. There was no such link for people who had a pet dog. (The study was done at the Minnesota Stroke Institute and presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference in February of 2008.)
One rationale: interacting with cats reduces anxiety and stress. Plus, cats need less time and care than dogs.
I have my own theory. As a long-time cat owner, I’ve learned to appreciate life in the slow lane. Cats can teach us the art of being, not doing. Whether it’s meditating on the bird feeder or stretching out in the sunniest spot in the house, they’re expert at doing nothing. Learning how to relax goes a long way toward reducing the hostility and time urgency that can contribute to cardiovascular disease.
My orange tabby, Mattie, is 19 years old—that’s 94 in human years. I can’t say for sure why she has lived this long, but she does get brewer’s yeast, CoQ10, fish oil, greens, and fresh air and sunshine every day. We both also love fish.
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: Nutrition and supplements aren’t the only ways to slow down the aging process. I’m glad I’m a cat lover, but I still think having a pet that matches your personality and lifestyle is best. Even watching fish swim in a tank can have a calming effect. Overall, research has shown that pet owners live longer than non-pet owners.
QUICK TIP: Research has shown that dogs are also remarkable health care providers! Learn More
Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.
