How Cats Impact Human Lives and What Their Body Language Reveals

Cats have been part of human life for thousands of years, from ancient temples to modern apartments. While often seen as independent and aloof, research and observation reveal that cats have a surprisingly deep and beneficial impact on human health, emotions, and even society. Here are some fascinating facts about how cats affect humans.

1. Stress Relief and Emotional Support

One of the most well-documented effects of cats on humans is their ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Simply petting a cat can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and calmness (Beetz et al., 2012). The rhythmic sound of a cat's purring has also been shown to reduce blood pressure and heart rate, creating a soothing atmosphere (McNicholas et al., 2005). For individuals experiencing loneliness, depression, or trauma, cats can offer nonjudgmental companionship and emotional grounding.

2. Health Benefits

Owning a cat has been linked to several physical health benefits. A study by the University of Minnesota found that cat owners had a 30% lower risk of dying from a heart attack compared to non-cat owners (Qureshi et al., 2009). This may be due to the calming presence of cats and the reduced stress levels associated with pet ownership. In some cases, therapy cats are used in hospitals and nursing homes to improve patient mood and encourage healing (Johnson et al., 2008).

3. Improved Mental Health

Cats can play a crucial role in managing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The responsibility of caring for a pet gives structure and purpose to daily life. Additionally, the consistent companionship of a cat can combat feelings of isolation, especially among the elderly or individuals living alone (Chur-Hansen, 2010).

4. Social Connection

Although cats are often considered solitary animals, they can actually help humans build social connections. Cat owners often find themselves bonding with other pet lovers, whether online or in person. Cat cafés, rescue centers, and social media pages dedicated to felines create communities where people share advice, stories, and support (Wood et al., 2007).

5. Allergy Resistance in Children

Interestingly, early exposure to cats may help children develop resistance to pet allergies. Studies suggest that infants who grow up with cats are less likely to develop asthma and allergies later in life (Ownby et al., 2002). This early exposure appears to train the immune system to tolerate common allergens.

6. Cats and Human History

Cats have been human companions since at least 9,000 years ago. Ancient Egyptians revered them as sacred creatures, often associating them with protection and fertility. Over time, cats transitioned from religious icons to working animals in homes and farms, controlling pests and rodents (Driscoll et al., 2009). Today, they are cherished household pets in millions of homes worldwide.

Cat Body Language

1. Positive / Calm Moods

• Interested – Ears up, eyes wide. The cat is curious and watching something closely.
• Friendly – Tail up, body relaxed. The cat is happy to see you and feels safe.
• Attentive – Sitting upright, ears forward. The cat is focused and paying close attention.
• Relaxed – Lying down comfortably. The cat feels safe and calm.
• Trusting – Belly exposed. The cat trusts you and feels safe, but may not want to be touched there.
• Friendly Relaxed – Tail up, walking. The cat is relaxed but alert and in a good mood.
• Content – Curled up or lying down. The cat is comfortable and happy.

2. Playful / Mixed Signals

• Conflicted / Cautious – Ears sideways, body tense. The cat is unsure or a bit worried.
• Playful – Pouncing or ready to jump. The cat wants to play.
• Excited – Eyes wide, tail up or twitching. The cat is excited, maybe about food or a toy.
• “This Is Mine” – Lying on something and staring. The cat is guarding what it wants.

3. Negative / Scared / Aggressive

• Anxious – Ears back, eyes wide. The cat is nervous or uncomfortable.
• Prehunting – Low body, stalking. The cat is in hunting mode, sneaky and focused.
• Hostile – Arched back, fur puffed. The cat feels threatened and wants to look big.
• Frightened – Body low, tail down. The cat is scared and may try to hide or run.
• Terrified – Eyes wide, body very tense. The cat is extremely scared and panicking.
• Super Terrified – Flattened body, tail tight, claws out. The cat is in full fear mode and may scratch or bite.
• Offended – Tail flicking, ears back. The cat is annoyed or unhappy.
• Disgusted – Nose scrunched, maybe backing away. The cat doesn't like what it sees or smells.

Graphic created by: The great Lili Chin (www.doggiedrawings.net)

While cats may not always express affection in the same way as dogs, their impact on human well-being is undeniable. From reducing stress to improving health and providing companionship, cats have quietly earned their place as valuable partners in human life. Whether curled up on a windowsill or brushing against your leg, their presence is both comforting and beneficial.

References

1. Beetz, A., Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Julius, H., & Kotrschal, K. (2012). Psy
2. chosocial and psychophysiological effects of human-animal interactions: the possible role of oxytocin. Frontiers in Psychology, 3, 234.
3. Chur-Hansen, A. (2010). Grief and bereavement issues and the loss of a companion animal: people living with a companion animal, owners of companion animals, and those who have lost one. Clinical Psychologist, 14(1), 14–21.
4. Driscoll, C. A., Macdonald, D. W., & O'Brien, S. J. (2009). From wild animals to domestic pets, an evolutionary view of domestication. PNAS, 106(Supplement 1), 9971–9978.
5. Johnson, R. A., Meadows, R. L., Haubner, J. S., & Sevedge, K. (2008). Animal-assisted activity among patients with cancer: effects on mood, fatigue, self-perceived health, and sense of coherence. Oncology Nursing Forum, 35(2), 225–232.
6. McNicholas, J., Gilbey, A., Rennie, A., Ahmedzai, S., Dono, J. A., & Ormerod, E. (2005). Pet ownership and human health: a brief review of evidence and issues. BMJ, 331(7527), 1252–1254.
7. Ownby, D. R., Johnson, C. C., & Peterson, E. L. (2002). Exposure to dogs and cats in the first year of life and risk of allergic sensitization at 6 to 7 years of age. JAMA, 288(8), 963–972.
8. Qureshi, A. I., Suri, M. F. K., Ahmed, S., Nasar, A., Divani, A. A., & Kirmani, J. F. (2009). Pet ownership and risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Stroke, 40(2), 363–367.
9. Wood, L., Giles-Corti, B., & Bulsara, M. (2007). The pet connection: pets as a conduit for social capital? Social Science & Medicine, 61(6), 1159–1173.