Can You Have An Emotional Support Cat? All Your Questions Answered!

Cats can be remarkably effective in alleviating anxiety, as explained by Whittenburg. She suggests that the calming impact of cats may be attributed to a physiological response. Engaging in activities such as petting or cuddling your cat has been found to lower the levels of cortisol, which is the body’s stress hormone. This reduction in cortisol levels leads to an overall sense of tranquility and contentment, resulting in a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure, effectively calming anxiety (Whittenburg, 2022). This demonstrates how cats can play a significant role in helping individuals manage their anxiety levels.

Can cats be beneficial for individuals dealing with PTSD? Emotional support cats play a vital role in offering companionship, comfort, security, and affection to those facing various emotional challenges, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These specially trained feline companions reside with their owners and provide unwavering support and companionship. This bond between a person and their emotional support cat can be particularly valuable for individuals coping with PTSD, as it can help alleviate symptoms and provide a sense of stability and solace in their daily lives.