While many pet owners across the globe would feverishly endorse having a dog, especially one trained to provide emotional support, such a practice is inevitably not as popular in Malaysia due to religious sensibilities.
That said, even if owning a dog is out of the question, emotional support cats are a fantastic, arguably even preferred alternative. While cats are famously considered to be relatively aloof and uncaring compared to dogs, cats actually make great companions, especially if one is struggling mentally and emotionally from challenges associated with one’s disability. Here’s why:
Cats Are Great Stress-Relievers
For individuals with disabilities, stress and anxiety can be overwhelming and persistent. Emotional support cats help alleviate these feelings by encouraging their owners to shift focus away from the source of their anxiety.
Caring for a cat—whether through feeding, grooming, or simply petting—creates a sense of purpose and redirects attention to positive, calming interactions. Interestingly, the rhythmic sound of a cat’s purring has been shown to have a soothing effect, reducing stress hormones like cortisol and promoting relaxation. This makes emotional support cats particularly valuable for those managing conditions such as PTSD, generalized anxiety disorder, or chronic stress.
Cats Can Help With Depression
Depression can be a significant challenge for people with disabilities, often leading to feelings of hopelessness and low energy. Meanwhile, emotional support cats have a unique ability to boost mood and reduce depressive symptoms.
Their playful behavior, affectionate nature, and unconditional love provide a source of joy and comfort. The act of caring for a cat also fosters a sense of responsibility and routine, which can be especially helpful for individuals struggling with motivation. Additionally, the bond between a cat and its owner can create a sense of connection and purpose, helping to combat feelings of emptiness or sadness.
Cats Can Improve Your Sleep Quality
Sleep disturbances are common among individuals with disabilities, often exacerbated by anxiety, pain, or other health conditions. Fortunately, emotional support cats can play a key role in improving sleep quality.
The reduced anxiety and stress that come from interacting with a cat can help owners fall asleep faster and experience fewer episodes of waking up in the middle of the night. Many people find comfort in having their cat nearby while they sleep, as the cat’s presence provides a sense of security and calm. Yet again a cat’s purring proves effective here, as it’s been known to have a meditative effect, thus promoting deeper and more restful sleep.
Of course, it’s worth noting that such benefits often come from a properly trained emotional support cat, as many untrained cats would happily disturb your sleep rather than aid it.
Cats Can Reduce Your Sense of Loneliness and Isolation
Loneliness and social isolation are significant challenges for many people with disabilities, particularly those with limited mobility or have difficulty engaging in social activities. To combat this, emotional support cats offer constant companionship, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness.
Unlike some pets, cats strike a perfect balance between being affectionate and respecting personal boundaries. They provide comfort and connection without being overly demanding, making them ideal for individuals who value independence. This companionship can be especially meaningful for those who spend long periods alone, as it minimizes the negative effects of isolation and fosters a sense of belonging.
References
Ivana Crnec (2025) Emotional Support Cat: Benefits and Registration [Accessed 23 February 2025] Available at: https://www.certapet.com/emotional-support-animal/type/cat/?srsltid=AfmBOorQc1U7m0yS87ZmzDdtwDoRYdgSkFRIX3SsGqkZw02k2X1VDlph
Cait Challenger (2023) 10 Mental Health Benefits Of Owning A Cat [Accessed 23 February 2025] Available at: https://meowfoundation.com/10-mental-health-benefits-of-owning-a-cat-how-our-feline-friends-make-our-lives-happier-healthier/
Trina J Wood (2019) Why Therapy Cats are Just as Effective as Therapy Dogs [Accessed 23 February 2025] Available at: https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/news/why-therapy-cats-are-just-effective-therapy-dogs