Multiple scientific studies have shown that keeping cats not only brings emotional comfort but also significantly improves heart health and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
A long-term study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology in 2009 found that cat owners have a lower risk of dying from cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke than those who do not own cats. Even for those who were once cat owners but do not currently own cats, the risk is still lower than that of those who have never owned cats.
A study in the journal Hypertension shows that hypertensive patients who keep pets have a lower blood pressure response under mental stress, and relying solely on medication cannot achieve this effect. Furthermore, a study in Australia in 1992 also pointed out that the systolic blood pressure of pet owners is generally lower.
The scientific statement of the American Heart Association summarizes multiple studies, indicating that owning cats or dogs is associated with higher heart rate variability, which may reduce the risk of death after a heart attack. In addition, simple interactions such as petting cats can relieve stress and promote physical and mental health.
Keeping a cat not only adds joy to life but also safeguards heart health, achieving two goals at once.
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