15 Ways Cats Can Improve Your Life

In a study at the University of Minnesota's Stroke Research Center, researchers found that cat owners were safer from heart attacks than their non-cat-owning friends.

"(Researchers) found that over a 20-year period, those who had never owned a cat had a 40 percent greater risk of death due to heart attack," according to ABC News.

When a cat purrs within a range of 20-140 Hz, it is literally sending out healing waves. The vibrations caused by a cat's purr on a human body promote bone strength, strengthen soft tissue in muscles and tendons, and heal infection and swelling in the body.

Cats are natural hunters, and they will keep your house clear of unwanted insects. If you are unfortunate enough to have mice in your home, then your cat is up to the task of hunting them down.

Cats can provide a furry shoulder to lean on during times of illness or bereavement. Maybe you just suffered a loss in your family or you lost your job, or you just simply had a bad day. Cats are very intuitive to their human's emotions, and most will cuddle right up next to you to offer what comfort they can.

Dr. June McNicholas, a psychologist with a focus on animal and human relationships, has performed studies that prove just how important a role cats can play in our lives. Their companionship is a source of comfort for people at all ages. Dr. McNicholas found that 90 percent of people put their family pet in their top 10 relationships, with the percentage going even higher for children under 7 and adults over 60.

When it comes to children, the presence of a cat in the house can be helpful. Kids can learn the responsibility of taking care of a living creature. They learn to ensure that their cat is fed daily and how to keep a clean space for them in the house (read: the litter box).

It's an old argument, but a Mayo Clinic study finds that you can sleep better with a cat. The presence of a warm, furry animal adds a sense of security to your bed. Forty-one percent of the 151 participants in the Mayo Clinic study reported that having a pet in their bedroom led to better sleep.

Children or adults with social disorders can benefit from having a cat. Those with autism improve their communication abilities by spending time with an animal that doesn't judge them. It gives them a safe social interaction every time.

Cats help with leading a stress-free life. Dogs are a bundle of energy and require constant care. Cats are much more mellow, and they are very low maintenance. There's no need to plan your life in increments of hours so that you can let your cat outside to do his business. They can be left alone all day, and most prefer it that way.

Cats can put you into a zen state of mind. They are very relaxed creatures, and nothing can soothe you like sitting on the couch and petting them. That simple action combined with a cat's purring is one that puts your mind at ease and allows you to rest.

In a world where "gluten free" is becoming more and more commonplace, it's nice to cross as many allergies off the list as possible. Research has proven that children raised with cats from an early age are less likely to have allergies. Kiss those sneezes goodbye!

It's a weird thought, but owning a cat is actually better for the environment. A study found that owning and caring for a cat leaves a carbon footprint equivalent to a small hatchback. In comparison, owning a dog has a carbon footprint equivalent to a SUV.

Feeling unlucky in love? It might be time to adopt a cat—or find someone who has one! A British poll found that 90 percent of single women found men who were cat owners to be nicer than men who didn't have a cat. The men were believed to be more sensitive and caring.

Cats can ease your feeling of loneliness. Had a long, hard day and hate the thought of going home to an empty house? Not to worry! Your cuddly cat is waiting there for you with some unconditional love—as soon as you feed her, of course.

They're so freakin' cute! There's a reason why the Internet is chock-full of videos recording their adorable antics. Watching those videos is an instant mood booster for even the most surly person. So, what are you waiting for?! Go start one up and improve your day.