Cats As The Ultimate Stress Relief Technique

Stress is a part of life. We need a slew of stress relief techniques in our toolbag.

Relieving stress is a persistent challenge for women entrepreneurs in high-stress situations. Luckily, pets can help. 

Take my cat, “Gypsy.”

Watching her zoom through the hallway, drifting around corners like a tiny race car, always brings a smile to my face and shifts my focus to the present moment. Her soft purring as she curls up on my lap while I read or game with my boyfriend creates a calm I can’t find anywhere else. And on stressful days, she seems to know exactly what I need. She nudges her head against me for affection, reminding me to pause and breathe.

All beloved pets have therapeutic effects. But as a cat lover, I’m particularly drawn to the unique stress relief benefits cats offer. Let's delve into why cats are perfect examples of pets for stress relief.

You'll learn:

• The healing benefits of cats and the science behind it
• 3 ways to harness cats as stress relief
• Tips for incorporating them into your daily self-care routine
• How they support those with neurodivergent brains (like me:)

Relieving Stress with Cats

The Science of Cat Comfort

It’s well-established that pets are an effective stress relief technique.

The National Institutes of Health explains that pets help shift our nervous systems from stressed to calm. Pets can lower stress hormones and increase oxytocin, the "bonding hormone" that promotes relaxation and connection.

Pets have also improved social interaction, physical activity, and emotional comfort.

There's even evidence that a cat’s purr has a frequency that lowers stress. It even has healing properties for muscles and bones.  I’ve often noticed how Gypsy’s purr seems to sync with my breathing, slowing everything down and giving me space to relax.

Perhaps my favorite example of the healing power of cats are “cats in prisons” programs. 

Stray cats, given to vetted prisoners, live in the prison to provide companionship. The prisoners are responsible for 100% of their care. Violent and repeat offenders have completely changed their lives after bonding with cats. Loving and caring for their cats taught them empathy and gave them hope for a better future.

If cats can have such a transformative effect on the lives of prisoners, imagine the hope and relief they can bring to entrepreneurial women like us. 

The Magic of Mindfulness

Cats have a way of pulling us into the moment. Their playful unpredictability—chasing a toy, pouncing on imaginary prey, or, in Gypsy’s case, zooming down the hallway—commands attention. These moments are more than just entertaining. They shift our focus from worry to the here and now, grounding us in lightheartedness.

Watching Gypsy morph from an excited Halloween Cat into a true queen of speed across the living room is a favorite stress-buster. It’s impossible not to laugh as she gleefully sprints, her fluffy tail flying behind her. In these moments, I’m fully present, absorbed in her joy, and reminded to let go of my stress, even for a little while.

The Humor and Joy of Feline Quirks

Cats are natural comedians who are full of personality. Laughing at and with them is a powerful way of relieving stress. Whether kneading blankets like kittens, stretching into long rubber bands, or startling at their own reflections, they inspire abundant chuckles.

Gypsy’s quirks always brighten my day. When she stretches out so far on the blanket that she blends in completely, she's like a “blanket cat.” It’s a small, silly thing, but it reminds me of the beauty in simple, unexpected joys. 

Women entrepreneurs can benefit immensely from the moments of lightness that cut through daily stress. 

How Cats Help People on the Spectrum

Pets for stress relief are particularly beneficial for those on the spectrum. 

Their predictable routines and nonjudgmental presence create a safe, calming environment. Petting a cat’s soft fur or feeling the gentle vibrations of their purr helps calm anxiety and relieves overstimulation.

 Cats are also intuitive and respond to emotions, making them great comforting companions without the need for words or complicated social interactions. Gypsy, in particular, tends to lower her sassy cat ways whenever I am nearing a meltdown. She pushes her head into my hand and forces pets that ground me. Many animals seem to have this intuition that lets them know what you need and when you need it. 

3 Ways to Harness Cats as a Stress Relief Technique 

There are many ways to integrate cats into your routine, from intentional interactions at home to cat cafés and shelters.

At Home with Your Cat  

If you share your home with a cat, everyday moments are opportunities for easing stress. 

Make time to engage with your cat through intentional activities like playing with their favorite toys or cuddling. Some cats will even have "conversations" with you through a language specifically made for the two of you.

When I’m stressed, Gypsy instinctively finds me and paws or stares at me as if to say, “I’m here, everything’s okay.” These little moments remind me to pause and pet her, which almost instantly calms me down. Playtime is equally therapeutic—watching Gypsy leap after a feather toy or chase an imaginary mouse brings me laughter and joy, helping me shift my focus away from whatever was weighing on me.

After moments like these, life feels more doable.

Volunteering at Shelters

If you don’t own a cat, consider volunteering at a local animal shelter. Caring for cats—whether brushing, playing, or just sitting with them—can have a meaningful impact.

Volunteering is especially helpful for neurodivergent individuals. This is because it provides a predictable, structured way to connect with cats. Feeding, grooming, and play routines calm stress without the pressure of social interaction.

Before I found Gypsy, I partnered with a local non-profit shelter to work on their volunteering systems: allowing me to help with how the shelter was efficiently managed AND so I could sneak away to the cat room for some stress relief kitten therapy.

Visiting Cat Cafés and Rescues

Cat cafés are a fantastic way to hang out with cats. These are quiet, serene spaces to relax with a coffee or tea, surrounded by friendly, playful cats. You can cat watch, scroll on your phone, or entirely focus on the cats.

These cats are usually adoptable, so if you find your special cat, you can take it home.

Don’t forget cat sanctuaries, which offer a lively way to be with and support cats. Why not look for one near you and plan a “field trip”? - a special afternoon to go somewhere new and relieve stress with cats. 

Incorporating Cats Into Your Daily Routines

Cat time can seamlessly integrate into your self-care routine, just like any other self-care practice. This practical guide will empower you to make the most of the unique bond cats offer, even amid your busy entrepreneurial life.

Cheat Sheet: Practical Tips to Integrate Cats into Daily Routines

1. Create a daily bonding ritual. Dedicate time every day, whether it’s a morning cuddle before you get out of bed, a lunch play break, or a "Netflix and chill." These moments will provide regular opportunities to decompress.
2. Practice mindfulness. Create a “sensory session” to focus on the details of interacting with your cat. Immerse yourself in the feel of their fur, the sound of their purr, or the warmth of their body.
3. Use play as therapy: Engage your cat in activities they love, like chasing a feather toy or batting a ball. Find a new activity or toy for them to love.
4. Visit a cat café or sanctuary by planning a field trip.
5. Foster a cat. Fostering offers companionship without commitment. It’s a great way to enjoy the benefits of cats.
6. Reflect on joyful moments. Note small but meaningful interactions, like playful antics or a particular quirk. Take a photo of one of these moments and post it on social media or somewhere you can see it.
7. Take “cat breaks." Schedule short “cat breaks” during your day, even if it’s simply watching a couple of funny videos online. Laughter and lightheartedness relieve stress and just feel good.
8. Explore cats as self-care: Cats are an invitation to self-care. Your needs will vary according to the day, and you can adjust how a cat can meet them. Here are some examples:

• A cozy rest break with your cat can pause or slow down a racing or anxious mind. 
• A field trip can get you out of the house or through a rut
• A play session can energize you and boost your mood
• Finding a new toy at the pet store can be a fun excursion
• If you need to laugh, watch a hilarious cat video

Sharing your life with a cat or connecting with them in your community can enrich your life and help you navigate stress. Any pet will provide similar benefits! Someday soon, I hope to have a new puppy to add to the mix, so here’s to a dog-focused stress relief post coming around too!

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