Get

In Your Inbox

Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Do Cats Have Healing Powers? What the Research Says

domestic cat lying on owners lap

Cats are known for being cute and quirky, but did you know that they could be healing too? Cat ownership is a rewarding experience to the point where many people feel it becomes therapeutic. This could simply be because you feel happy with their companionship or reap the potential healing benefits of their purrs.

This article will cover a cat’s potential healing powers and what research has to say about it.

divider 3 paws

Is It True That Cats Have Healing Powers?

Cats are thought to heal us in various ways, both mentally and physically. Furthermore, research suggests that cats may heal themselves by purring at certain frequencies.

Some people feel that owning a cat brings them a sense of comfort and fulfilling companionship that makes them feel happier and less stressed. Stress may have all sorts of negative effects on our bodies and minds, so finding ways to reduce it is a huge benefit for most people.

Cats offer us comfort when we feel anxious and allow us to form a connection built on mutual trust and unconditional love. This might make you feel less lonely and offer you a sense of support when you are not feeling the best.

Aside from the mental aspect, cats might be able to heal us physically too through their purrs. Some studies suggest that a cat’s purr has healing frequencies that could speed up the healing process of broken bones.

divider 3 paws

The 2 Ways Cats Can Help Heal Us

1. Reduced Cardiovascular Risk

Several studies have looked into a cat’s healing abilities over the last few decades. A study covered by Medical News Today discussed how cats may reduce your risk of a heart attack by almost one-third.

These results were discovered after a decade-long study by researchers at the University of Minnesota’s Institute in Minneapolis. This is likely because of the role cats have in easing our stress and lowering our blood pressure.

Researchers found that about 30% of cat owners had a lower risk of dying from a heart attack compared to ones who didn’t own cats. The study also found that the risk was reduced in people who do not currently own cats but have in the past. However, the researchers did acknowledge that the cat owners might have a lower risk because of lifestyle factors other than cat ownership.

A study from 20021 had similar findings to the 2009 study after examining the effects of cardiovascular activity on pet owners (including cats and dogs). The study concluded that pet ownership offers cardiovascular benefits likely from reduced stress, lower blood pressure, and heart rate.

woman holding her birman cat
Image Credit: Stokkete, Shutterstock

2. Improved Mental Health

One of the many benefits of cat ownership could be improved mental health. Spending time with our cats could help us feel calmer and less stressed, which some might consider proof of a cat’s healing energy.

In 2011, members from the Mental Health Foundation and Cats Protection UK surveyed 600 cat owners and non-cat owners. They found that around 33% of the cat owners felt that stroking their cat was calming. About 87% of the owners reported that they felt their cat had a positive impact on their well-being. Furthermore, 76% found that they coped better in life by having cats for companionship.

A 2018 study reviewed how pets can support those living with mental health problems. Although more research is needed, the study found that pet ownership could be beneficial for our mental health. This is because our pets (such as cats) may offer us emotional support and connection that might help us manage our mental health better.

cat resting with owner on sofa at home
Image Credit: U__Photo, Shuterstock

divider 3 paws

Conclusion

Although researchers require more evidence to fully understand how cats heal, many owners don’t doubt their feline’s healing “powers”. Cats not only purr at frequencies that promote bone density and healing for themselves but potentially for us too.

Their positive effect on stress and anxiety could also help improve certain cardiovascular diseases and improve our mental health. The benefits of cat ownership should not be overlooked, especially since it could have a positive effect on our health and mental well-being.


Featured Image Credit: everymmnt, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Catster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Cats May Protect Their Humans from Memory Loss in Later Life! (Vet-Verified Science)

Alzheimer’s runs in my husband’s family. Nearly everyone in his family was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s sometime after they turned 60. As you might...

cat waking up its owner sleeping in bed

Does Watching Cat Videos Improve Your Health? What Science Suggests!

We have all been told by our parents, teachers, and bosses to stop wasting our time watching cat videos and get out there...

Young woman with cat working on computer at table

What Kind of Music Do Cats Like? What Science Says

Cats do seem to enjoy music, but not the same music that humans do—according to the latest research. There are many other forms...

Calico cat sandwiched between two speakers

How Much Do Bengal Cats Purr? What You Need to Know

Bengal cats usually purr just as much as other cats. However, they often purr very loudly; some will be more vocal than others,...

bengal cat being stroked by man's hand and purring

More related

bengal cat being stroked by man's hand and purring

How Much Do Bengal Cats Purr? What You Need to Know

Bengal cats usually purr just as much as other cats. However, they often purr very loudly; some will be more vocal than others,...

Cats can be found in the most unexpected places at Thai temples. This one was watching various ceremonies, from a window vantage point.

Meditation and Cats: A Reflection

Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two adventurous cats, Pancake and Tiller. I have lived...

Tuxedo cat lying on kitchen counter

How Aggressive Are Tuxedo Cats? What Studies Say

Do you have a cat with an attitude? Or as many call it, cattitude? If you do, you’re not alone. While some cat...

different-gemstones-and-grey-cat-lying-on-bed

12 Healing Crystals for Cats: A Holistic Guide

Are you someone who believes in the healing power of crystals? Maybe you have a pocket full of charged gems or you place...

Keep reading

How Do Vets Put Cats Down? Vet-Verified Facts & Info

There will always be the dreaded day we have to say goodbye to our beloved pets. There never seems to be a good way to go about that, and it never seems like the right moment. It’s something we all...

sad, bored or sick cat

Can Cats Eat Sausage? Vet-Reviewed Nutritional Facts & FAQ

As cat lovers, we all want to spoil and treat our feline friends, but we also want to keep them happy and healthy. While your cat may show interest in some of your human food, not everything on your plate...

Can Cats Eat Sausage

Can Cats Eat Pumpkin Seeds? Vet-Reviewed Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Yes, most cats can eat pumpkin seeds without suffering any adverse effects. Pumpkin seeds are packed with nutrients that are extremely beneficial. What’s more, some cats seem to love the taste of these seeds. Therefore, do not be afraid to...

Can Cats Eat Pumpkin Seeds

Purina Pro Plan Cat Food Review of 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary Purina Pro Plan Cat Food is full of recipes that your feline friend is sure to love. With several lines and flavors to pick from, even the pickiest of eaters will love to eat these foods. The lines...

Purina Pro Plan Wet Cat Food Review

Human-Grade Cat Food: What Does It Mean? Facts & FAQ

Of all the food available for feeding your cat, human-grade cat food is probably one of the most confusing despite its popularity. It’s a cat food that’s made under FDA regulations for human consumption. However, the principle cannot be applied...

cat eating smalls freeze-dried raw food

Can Cats Eat Licorice Root? Vet Approved Nutrition Advice

As a pet parent, you want everything to be perfect for your feline pal, which includes ensuring there are no plants, herbs, spices, or food that your cat can get into that might hurt them. Many pet parents wonder if...

Can Cats Eat Licorice Root

Open Farm vs Fromm Cat Food: 2025 Comparison

Globally, the pet food industry has never been larger and more profitable. Because of this, cat owners in 2024 are faced with choosing between an ever-expanding selection of diets for their feline friends. To help you out, we’ve written this...

Open Farm VS Fromm

Why Doesn’t My Cat Like Me Anymore? Vet-Verified Tips to Fix It

Have you ever caught yourself wondering “Why doesn’t my cat like me anymore?” We all know that our beloved felines can sometimes behave in a way we would call “moody”, but is their newfound dislike actually based on what you...

cat scratching owner