Is there a more calming sound than your cat lying and purring in your lap? Research has proven that the vibrations and sound of a purring cat may be beneficial for the well-being from its owner in several different ways.
It is a means of appeasement for humans which consists in being in presence of a purring cat. Very serious scientific research suggests that the purring of a cat can be beneficial to their owner. The purring frequency of cats, between 25 and 50 hertz, has beneficial properties for humans.
This technique is not limited to just listening to the animal, but encourages people to relax as much as possible by interacting with the cat (s) by stroking or playing with them. The goal is to have a real moment of relaxation and be able to free themselves from any stress or discomfort. This therapy is particularly recommended for the elderly, regularly stressed or sensitive.
How to practice purr therapy?
This technique is simple and accessible for both children and adults as long as you have a cat. As explained above, just relax and take care of your own animal to encourage him to purr.
In order to get the maximum benefit from this therapy, it is above all important to succeed in placing yourself in an environment that promotes relaxation. Place yourself in a room away from all noise pollution, dim the lights, settle into a comfortable chair with your cat in your arms, and close your eyes listening to your pet purring. Breathe slowly and deeply while staying focused on the sounds and vibrations your cat emits.
For people who do not have a cat at home, there are cat bars which are establishments with the specificity of housing many chats with which customers can interact. There are a few in France, but the concept is much more popular in Japan, and Austria. People who are used to going to these kinds of cafes particularly appreciate the anti-stress benefits provided by interaction with cats.
Take care of your cat to benefit from therapy
In order to benefit from this therapy, it is of course necessary that your cat purr. Everything should therefore be done to trigger this phenomenon.
How and why does a cat purr?
Cats do not have a specific device in their body for purring. Purring involves the rapid movement of the muscles of the larynx, combined with the movement of the diaphragm. The muscles work during both inhaling and exhaling, which makes cats seem like they can purr continuously. Air passes through the valve, which opens and closes quickly to create the whirr.
When we are happy we smile, dogs will tend to wag their tails vigorously while cats will purr when they are happy. Cats can sometimes emit purring when they are under stress or when they are upset.
What can be done to promote purring?
For take advantage of purring and your cat’s caresses, he must be willing to do it: it therefore depends on his mood, his stress, his fear, his availability, if he is sick, tired or hungry. Here are some tips to make your cat feel good and purr.
Give affection to your cat
Pet your cat regularly so that it gets used to it and can truly appreciate these moments of affection. The caresses should be soft and mostly done behind the ears, under the chin or on the back of your cat. If your cat is not prone to being petted or you pick it up, above all, do not force it otherwise you run the risk of rushing it and producing the opposite effect.
Try to make your cat happy
The best way to make your cheerful cat is to keep it satiating. Make sure your cat has no shortage of food or water available to him. Avoid yelling or scaring him so that he is not stressed. Stimulate him thanks to an environment which allows him to behave naturally (hunting, climbing, hiding, sleeping, etc.).
Make your cat comfortable
Your cat needs comfortable places where he feels safe and will not be disturbed to be able to rest fully. Cats particularly like to rest under the rays of the sun, so it is recommended to leave the curtains or a window open. A cat needs freedom, if it is possible to let him go out and come back to your house as he pleases and do not hold him against his will.
Avoid sudden changes
Cats are very sensitive to changes in their environment. Favor them smooth changes in your home or in your pet’s daily life. If you want to adopt a new animal, introduce the newcomer gradually so as not to make your cat anxious. In addition, the arrival of a baby in the home or the existence of a sensitive pathology can be difficult adaptation caps for your feline who deserves to be accompanied and treated in turn.
What are the benefits of cats and purring?
The effects of purring and petting are beneficial to our health. Moreover, cats are recommended in hospitals to alleviate the suffering of patients.
Improves and regulates sleep
According to research conducted, the cat helps falling asleep. Purring reduces stress and allows you to find restful sleep in a natural and completely free way.
Fight against depression and loneliness
Having a cat by your side makes you feel less alone, which improves your mental health. It boosts the hormone of happiness, source of well-being.
Reduces heart problems
Having a cat close to you is good for your heart. The moments of affection that you exchange with your four-legged friend will decrease your blood pressure and will bring you appeasement.
Increases resistance to allergies in children
As you grow up in an environment with cats, you will be more allergy resistant cat hair, grass and mites.
Reduces stress and anxieties
If you want to improve your mood and reduce your stress levels, just hang out with a cat. Indeed, the cat is a real emotional sponge which dissolves negative energies.
Cats can improve our health and our well-being in many ways. They are true life companions capable of bringing you peace and good humor. In addition to having a positive impact on your mental health, your physical health will also improve. If you don’t have a cat at home yet, it’s high time to think about it: practice purring therapy and enjoy moments of restorative relaxation with him.
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