The U.S. is facing a mental health crisis, with 1 in 5 adults (about 59 million people) experiencing daily mental health challenges, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Members of Gen Z are especially affected, as they are navigating constant connectivity and social media pressure. According to the BePresent 2024 Digital Wellness Report, 83% of Gen Z believe they have an unhealthy relationship with their phone, resulting in negative effects on mental health and productivity.

Mental health experts recommend tips like regular exercise and meditation to boost wellness, but there's one surprising source of comfort for people looking to improve their mental health: cats.

Research about animal visitation programs at college campuses has shown that spending even a short amount of time interacting with cats provides effective stress relief. And according to board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Judith Joseph, "Simply having a cat to pet, play with or talk to increases feelings of well-being, positively impacting your mood and stress levels."

Here are 6 ways having cats around can be good for your mental health.

1. Cats offer companionship

The mere presence of a cat provides consistent, non-judgmental companionship, especially for people who live alone or have limited social interactions during the day.

"The quiet nature of cats helps people feel calmer," said Purina Pet Behaviorist Dr. Annie Valuska. "And most cats are more social than they're given credit for. Even when they're not actively seeking interaction, many cats prefer staying near their humans. Cats may also offer more companionship when people aren't feeling well physically or emotionally."

And according to Dr. Joseph, having a support animal like a cat is especially powerful during times of stress: "When you're upset or going through difficult times, it's often easier to share companionship with cats, as they don't demand conversation or ask questions the way friends or family might. They don't judge or try to solve your problems; they just stay with you when you need them."

2. Petting cats helps lower stress

The sensory input of petting a cat, feeling its soft fur and hearing that gentle purr can also positively impact your mood. The presence of a cat has been shown to lower cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, and boost oxytocin, helping ease anxiety and foster emotional safety, according to the American Educational Research Association. Their study found that college students who spent as little as 10 minutes per day petting a cat experienced decreased levels of cortisol.

Recognizing the impact cats have on mental health, Cat Chow is launching the Cats as Therapy Project to promote mental well-being through the healing power of cats. The project benefits Pet Partners, a leading pet therapy organization that registers and trains therapy animal teams with cats, dogs and other companion animals. Visit www.catchow.com/catproject to learn more.

3. Having pets provides necessary routine

Having to feed and tend to your cat every day offers a clear purpose and set routine that is calming and reaffirming. It's beneficial for most people to have an established schedule and experience putting another's needs before their own.

"Cats definitely let you know when their dinner is late," said Dr. Valuska, "which is a good reminder to all of us that we need routines like regular meals and resting times, too."

4. Caring for cats adds social benefits

Beyond the comfort of your cat's companionship, having a feline friend can also add meaning to your daily life and spark conversations with others. Being able to talk to other cat lovers about your pet gives you a special bond. Even for those who may have challenges meeting new people, sharing pictures of your cats, telling cat stories and introducing your cat to visitors offers meaningful experiences and opportunities to socialize.

"If small talk is not your strong suit, mentioning that you have a cat can be the perfect ice breaker," said Dr. Joseph. "Especially for people with social anxiety, bonding over cat ownership can be a powerful way to make a genuine connection."

5. Cats can get you moving

While cats don't need to take daily walks the same way dogs do, playing actively with your cat is good for them and for you. According to Dr. Valuska, playing with interactive wand toys and tossing balls for games of chase are great ways to bond with your cat while encouraging both of you to get moving and off the couch.

"While cats love to nap much of their day, they also benefit greatly from regular exercise, just like humans," added Dr. Valuska. "Getting up and actively playing with your cat each day helps to support their — and your — overall well-being, plus it's just fun for both of you!"

6. Your cat can inspire creativity

Cats have a long history of being memorialized in art and literature through the ages. Even if you aren't inspired to draw, paint or write a poem about your cat, having a cat in your home can spark creativity and provide enrichment.

For example, enhancing your space with cat-friendly furniture and environmental upgrades — like building a DIY cardboard tower or installing a catio — can go a long way in creating a more enriching and enjoyable environment for both you and your cat.

"Overall, owning a cat or cats, visiting friends or family with cats or spending time with them at a cat cafe can be effective ways to boost your mental and emotional well-being," said Dr. Joseph.