It has long been documented that pets of all kinds provide comfort, joy and even healing to their owners. This is especially true for the elderly, ill or abused children, troubled teens and prison inmates. The most serious concern for this vast portion of our population is loneliness. A cat can be the answer by providing unconditional love, an essential ingredient for a healthy, happy life.

Cats and dogs not only enrich our lives with companionship but for the young, they also teach responsibility and compassion. It is my belief that all children should grow up with pets, be they furry, feathered, or otherwise clad.

For those who are ill, the simple act of stroking a dog has been proven to lower blood pressure. Cats feel even softer under a hand. Add to that the inherent trait of a feline bonding with its owner through lap-sitting, purring and rubbing, stirs feelings of love, a most potent medicine for the broken-spirited.

Providing distraction from grief, pain and fear through laughter, cats help relax and calm their human companions, encourage exercise and even rekindle the will to live. Pets are useful in the treatment of Alzheimer’s as they bring the patient back to the present.

Cats are intuitive, psychic if you will. Two stayed by my side as I recovered from spinal fusion surgery years ago. They took shifts sleeping on my bed, even staying near as I navigated through the hallway with my walker. When I fell twice, they were immediately there. One even sensed that I was in gastric distress, and kneaded my belly as I lay in bed. This particular kitty suffered from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) so may have sensed something familiar. In any case, both were much more attentive to me than my (now) ex-husband during convalescence.

Cats are simple pets to care for. They can self-feed if necessary, and unlike dogs, do not require walks but exercise on their own. This makes them ideal for special-needs children, the infirm and elderly. Required equipment consists of litter box, scratching post (preferably one tall enough to climb), toys, food, and of course a loving human.

Finding the right cat is essential. Unlike many shelters, most of the cat rescue organizations are well-versed in placing pets as each applicant is carefully screened. Our cats are fostered in private homes before they are put up for adoption, so their personalities are documented.

Be sure to mention any pertinent health or special needs information during the adoption process. Even people with allergies can experience the joys of cat-ownership with certain breeds such as the Russian Blue and Rex.

Adopting a cat can add years to your life, ones full of love, laughter and companionship. At the same time, it will save a homeless animal from life in a cage or worse, feeling the needle. What better win-win could there be? Think about it. We still have kittens and the new season is about to commence….