Can Cats Treat Chronic Illness?

As spoonies, sometimes (okay, a lot of the time) it's hard to go out and socialize. And even if we're introverts, being alone all the time can have a negative impact on our mental health. That's where pets come in.

Furry friends are great company, and playing with them is known to cause the release of oxytocin, a hormone which increases self esteem, induces feelings of optimism, helps heal wounds and relieves pain [source]. Plus, recent studies show that your pet releases the same hormone when interacting with you. Proof that Kitty loves you just as much as you love her!

So what if you don't have a fur baby of your own?

Fortunately, June is Adopt-a-Cat Month. Each spring, or "kitten season", thousands of kitties are born, with many of them joining the millions of adult felines already in shelters by summer. For this reason, June is the ideal time to find the perfect addition for your family.

Check out the American Humane Association's checklist for adopting a cat.

How does your pet help you cope with chronic illness?