Job Stress-Can Cats Protect the Heart?
The Cardiovascur Benefits of Cat Ownership-A Surprising Finding
Sep 6, 2009
No one, it seems, is safe these days-neither those who've lost their jobs nor those who are hanging on for dear life to their own.
Health Problems Associated With Job Stress
There is no question that stress is associated with deterioration of the body and a number of cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure, heart attacks and stroke.
The bad news is that many in the workplace are prime candidates for these and other health threats as a result of the recession. According to Bruce Shipkowski in a September 3, 2009 Miami Herald article, "Study: Unemployed Feel Traumatized by Recession," a study conducted by Rutgers University found that significant numbers of respondents had symptoms of stress.
Depression, insomnia and an increased dependency on drugs and alcohol were among the problems reported. And it's not only the unemployed who suffer. A Times.com article by Eben Harrell, March 10, 2009, "Is it More Stressful to Get Laid Off Than Stay On?" cites research showing that those who are employed but fear losing their jobs continue to mentally deteriorate as long as they feel threatened.
Heart-Healthy: The Benefits of Owning a Cat
It's common knowledge that cats and dogs (and other pets) provide a source of relaxation and joy to pet owners. But a 2008 study conducted at the University of Minnesota, suggests a benefit unique to cats: cat owners were found to be less likely to die of a heart attack or stroke than people who don't own cats.
The same effect was not true of dogs: "No protective effect of dogs as domestic pets was observed." In fact, dog owners were 30 to 40 percent more likely to die of cardiovascular disease than cat owners. And the incidence of cardiovascular disease was no lower for dog owners than for non-dog owners.
Of course, It may be that cat owners are different in ways that protect them from cardiovascular disease, that are independent of cat ownership. But then again, maybe cat ownership is the cause, in which case, what's there to lose? Pets provide companionship, unqualified love, joy, and a reminder to slow down. Moreover, a growing body of research, including a large scale study conducted in Australia in 2002, shows that cats and other pets, especially when petted or stroked, can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and relieve stress, anxiety and depression.
How to Adopt a Cat Without Creating More Stress
With the right planning, the whole process can run smoothly. Of course, cats can be acquired from pet stores. But animal shelters are less of a hit to the wallet, and giving a shelter cat a home that otherwise may not find one, can be heartwarming: another plus for the heart. Either way, consider these suggestions:
Kitten or Adult?
Most cat seekers who go to animal shelters make a beeline for the kittens. And who could resist? They are playful, adorable, and full of energy. But kittens require more training and attention. Adult cats (approximately a year or more old), are generally more relaxed, and in most cases, less stressful. And it does the heart good to adopt them since the adults are less likely to find homes than kittens, the "stars" of the shelter.
Short-Haired or Long?
Cats can be long-haired with long, fluffy coats, or short-haired, with short or dense fur. Without frequent grooming, the fur of long-haired cats can become matted. So, for those who already feel pressed for time, a short-haired cat may be best. Since some breeds are relatively less likely to cause allergic symptoms, even those with allergies may find a cat they could live with.
Personality: Type A or Type B?
Contrary to their typecasting as aloof and indifferent, cats have different personalities. Some people prefer cats who clamor for attention and others prefer ones that are more laid back. When visiting a shelter, it's important to spend some "quality time" with the cat by taking it out of the cage and holding it. After that, it's a little like dating. If there is "chemistry" between the cat and prospective adopter, then it's a match. The closer the "fit," the less stressful the relationship will be.
Are You Prepared?
It's important to make sure the cat is spayed or neutered and has all the necessary shots (both of which animal shelters arrange, at a reasonable cost). And food, litter box and other essentials need to be in place before bringing the cat home. But after that, cats are relatively low maintenance and a reliable source of companionship, affection, and enjoyment.
Moving-in Day: Does The Cat Have Her Own Room?
Cats are curious and exploratory, but they need time to get used to their new surroundings. One way to help in the adjustment is to quarantine the cat to a small area at first. Then, after the cat feels safe, gradually widen the area. This is particularly important if there are other pets in the house. How long the settling in takes will depend on the cat's personality, level of nervousness, and other factors.
Not surprisingly, job stress is clearly compromising the health of the unemployed as well as the employed who fear losing their jobs. Stress, especially chronic stress, leads to anxiety and depression, and is a risk factor for high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Owning a pet, similar to yoga, meditation or poetry, is a good way to relieve stress. But cats may offer more--they may actually reduce the chances of their owners having a heart attack or stroke. If nothing else, cats and other pets have been linked to heart-related and other health benefits. And one thing's for sure: getting a cat is better than taking drugs, or doing nothing at all.
BNC101
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