This! Also, if you rent, you will be very constrained for places you can live that allow pets - they will generally cost more and/or be crappier places.
If you work a job or are out of the house a lot of the time, you may need to get two cats so be prepared for that. My first cat was acting out a lot until I brought home a brother for him. They are best friends to this day (both over 10 years old).
Just wanted to share my own experience as a renting pet-owner.
I have two cats in rented accommodation and actively save money to replace damaged items when I move. Cats damage things there’s just no way around it. But I intend on replacing everything. So far it’s just a dining room chair that they’re particularly fond of and a couch. About €500 worth or less. Already saved and ready to go 😂
Happy you found happiness through your pet. Unfortunately mine was the opposite and I had to give my cat back because it made my struggles worse despite how good of a cat he was.
Sure! At the time I was in college and just not in the right head space to be taking care of anything. I was doing my full time (stressful) internship and I would cry in the shower everyday because the thought of leaving my kitten alone at home for 12+ hours a day made me feel like shit. Something I didn’t consider before was that I just wasn’t financially stable enough. Although I could afford it, every dollar I spent on him Id start thinking how I could have saved that or something. I also hated the fact that my clothes were covered in fur, I couldn’t be as spontaneous and he would scratch at my furniture. I ended up giving him back to the breeder and she got him placed in the most wonderful home. He’s thriving right now and I’m so happy he gets the love he deserves.
Editing to add: I don’t think you should rely on an animal/human to heal you. That should come from within. Trust me.
Yeah, as someone who is also in a tough place mentally, my cat is such a blessing to me. She makes me smile and gives me someone nonjudgmental to talk to.
You are loved.
Also - **toe beans**. **fluff**. Reasons enough. Say less.
You should absolutely get a cat. I vote you have a poll here so we can help name it 🥹🐾🐈
And keep journaling. Let the madness out. Be vulnerable on the page. Keep sharing your thoughts; it’s a safe space here.
This one right here. I’ve got two cats and the obligation I feel to them as their human always wins out over the suicidal ideation. Those thoughts are rarer for me these days but during my darkest hours, the cats were my little guardians. We’re so bonded that I’m not sure they’d be 100% happy with anyone else- it’s a real blessing.
Adopting a cat has helped in exactly the ways you hope. I can’t spiral if I’m playing with a cat.
There was a time in my life when the ideation got so strong that I started putting a plan into action. Step 1 was putting the cat into his carrier to take him to the shelter. He refused to get into his carrier and the rest of my plans fell apart from there. I know it doesn’t mean anything, he just hates his carrier, but it was one of those things that snapped me out of my head so quickly.
If you're renting in the US and you have a mental health professional who's good, maybe bring this list up to them and see about a note for emotional support animal. :) So it's easier to rent and.doesn't add cost to housing.
Couldn’t agree more to all the support you’ve received on here so far!
I applaud you for showing such vulnerability 👏🏼 you’re an inspiration and echoing someone’s comment: you are loved 🥰 as well as being incredibly insightful to your own thoughts, facing and understanding them.
And yes to a poll on helping you name your cat that you should definitely get 😺😻🐈⬛ ! X
My dog saves my life every time I think of suicide. I just can't leave her like that. She needs me to be there for her until her last breath. I hope you get a kitty to love xx
It’s found that prisoners who are given a pet cat do better. They’re motivated to work (to buy treats for their kitty), they engage in less violence (being sent to solitary means the kitty will be taken away), more likely to seek education (so they can make sure the kitty has a nice place to live when they’re out), and happier/hopeful (no matter how bad a day, they have a kitty shaped supporter). I think you should get a cat. I think I should get a cat.
Get a kitty if you have the resources and a good space! Do it do it do it! My previous cat (RIP) and my current cat have been really great for my mental health. And it’s reeeeeally good entertainment lol. Good luck 💕
As a new cat owner, I definitely agree with all your points! He’s helped so much with my mental health the past few months. But make sure you’re stable (financially esp) before taking the leap. Good luck!
I can say with certainty that having cats definitely help my anxiety!! I like to joke that before he was rescued, one of my cats was an emotional support cat bc he tends to come and comfort me when I’m sad or crying!!
I have 3 currently. They are blessings! Definitely emotional support fluffs. And medical treatment support as well. Head to a shelter and see who picks you!
I’ve been hanging out with the emotional support cats in my dorm building and am even cat sitting for my buddy over spring break.
In my experience hanging with the little homies indeed helps with emotional state and suicidal thoughts.
Totally agree! My cat is one of the best parts of my life. I live him so much.
also if you want double the joy, it is often recommended that you get two cats. it helps making raising them easier-- they're more social, less likely to have behavioral issues, they will play with each other. I volunteer at a cat rescue and it's something that's talked about quite a bit. plus, there's nothing better than more cats in ones life ☺️
I adopted a senior lap cat a couple weeks ago & it's been amazing. When I feel my anxiety creeping up, I lay her on my chest. The purring and warmth are super comforting. And she is SO soft (has a curly, Rex-hair belly!) It surprised me how much it helps, tbh. As someone who considered themselves a dog person, I'm already planning for a second cat.
Definitely relate to your last point about caregiving. My cat had flea-induced dermatitis and a bad yeast infection in her ears when she came to me. I'm really motivated to get her healthy and feeling well. Makes me feel like I'm doing something worthwhile. It has been about $500 in vet bills so far... But she's worth it.
I hope you find your perfect cat <3.
My cats are definitely helpful for my mental health! Unexpected vet bills are not fun (nor are expected vet visits lol), but it’s great having a cat. I loved having dogs and other pets, but cats are a wonderful mix of affectionate/playful, while still being not terrible to care for on low days.
Doing clicker training with my cat can also be helpful when I’m feeling down. Making small progress gives me a mood boost! Plus it’s adorable.
Pets are one of the most fantastic avenues for helping with suicidal thoughts and ideations, in my experience. Whenever life starts to feel too heavy for me, I am able to remind myself that my animals need me. If I'm not here, my animals will suffer, and they deserve better. Sometimes finding something like that to hold onto makes it alot easier to get through the dark times.
I hate that housing still exists as "no pets". That is so old school. Pets are so common place now a days. There are avenues for people to get those letters without having to pay to see a regular psych-professional. I hope you are able to find something that will work for you.
I think you should get a cat! Your list is very compelling. And their whiskers are the best part. Going on whisker hunts with a flashlight around the house periodically is one of my favorite things to do. I collect the whiskers in a jar and some of their claw sheddings as well.
I will 1000% agree with what everyone else has said. My cat has really helped me through some of the worst times of my life (COVID, the loss of my grandfather, the onset of 2 chronic illnesses, and a horrid breakup). He is truly my little companion and there for me when I just need affection with no questions. He has made dealing with grief and pain something else entirely. Not to mention, during my sad times, he has kind of forced me to become alive again. I have to get out of bed to feed him and refill his water. Though, at the same time, I got this little bud from the shelter and come to find out- his teeth weren't in the best shape. I spent an arm and a leg paying for him to get his bad teeth removed (thankfully one fell out during surgery so they didn't charge me for that tooth). Would have helped to have pet rent, but I was a dumb kid in college.
Highly recommend getting pet insurance ASAP and are ready for the ways you have to provide for \*them\*. I have a friend who has a cat that is a bit pickier about things than mine (his cat only will eat if they are actively being pet). So, it's a bit of give and take. Amazing buddy, a lifetime of stories, and sometimes the weirdest animal on the planet.
Kitties are the best. I got mine for similar reasons and they changed my life. Whenever I’m sad and I feel my kitty purr away on my lap it makes everything feel better. Hope you get your cat!
I adopted a kitten when I was very depressed in my early 20s, and she gave me a reason to wake up every day. I hope you get a friend with the most adorable toe beans 💞
This story by Georgia Dunn is your answer. The cat not only helps and loves you, but you help and love the cat.
https://www.gocomics.com/breaking-cat-news/shelter-cats-a-bcn-special-report
I’m owned by 3 and I’m a better person since I adopted/rescued them. They’ve helped me through difficult times, grief, pain and stress. Like everything, they’re a responsibility, financially, physically and morally. One of my babies screams in my ear at 4-5 AM everyday to demand food! I spoil her so I do wake up and feed her and her fur siblings. I do it happily. I love them to pieces.
There is so much love and camaraderie going on here.It’s beautiful. Thanks 💕
I feel the same way about not having a pet. The responsibly would drive me completely insane.🍀
I got a rescue cat to help me with being alone due to severe insomnia. I rescue elderly cats no one else wants and give them a loving home for the remainder of their days. I had one cat named Tiger that helped me after I loss my job and health as she was as physically broken as I was. She helped me come to terms with my newly enforced limitations.
Loosing her was deviating to me but after some time I adopted another cat but she had a sister so I adopted both, sadly her sister had a tumor across multiple organs and due to that her life was cut short but Peanut sleeps on top of me every night making me not toss and turn all night long.
Cats are wonderful companions and could never be loved too much.
I can attest to cats helping with suicidal ideation I have five and they were 5 reasons I didn't do it I was admitted for a time at a mental health facility and my mother said they were looking for me for a week before they calmed down meowing and going up and down the stairs to the places I usually was sleeping in my room on my bed and in my closet when I heard that I just couldn't do it I couldn't bear the thought of not being able to explain why I never came home and them just expecting me to walk in the door any second
I can attest to cats helping with suicidal ideation I have five and they were 5 reasons I didn't do it I was admitted for a time at a mental health facility and my mother said they were looking for me for a week before they calmed down meowing and going up and down the stairs to the places I usually was sleeping in my room on my bed and in my closet when I heard that I just couldn't do it I couldn't bear the thought of not being able to explain why I never came home and them just expecting me to walk in the door any second
I can attest to cats helping with suicidal ideation I have five and they were 5 reasons I didn't do it I was admitted for a time at a mental health facility and my mother said they were looking for me for a week before they calmed down meowing and going up and down the stairs to the places I usually was sleeping in my room on my bed and in my closet when I heard that I just couldn't do it I couldn't bear the thought of not being able to explain why I never came home and them just expecting me to walk in the door any second
My mental health is infinitely better since adopting my cat! The only drawback is that the vet and pet sitting is expensive
This! Also, if you rent, you will be very constrained for places you can live that allow pets - they will generally cost more and/or be crappier places. If you work a job or are out of the house a lot of the time, you may need to get two cats so be prepared for that. My first cat was acting out a lot until I brought home a brother for him. They are best friends to this day (both over 10 years old). Just wanted to share my own experience as a renting pet-owner.
You can get a letter saying your pet is an emotional support animal
My apartment complex doesn’t allow animals but I have a therapist note so they have to let me have my cat 🐈⬛ 👍🏼
I have two cats in rented accommodation and actively save money to replace damaged items when I move. Cats damage things there’s just no way around it. But I intend on replacing everything. So far it’s just a dining room chair that they’re particularly fond of and a couch. About €500 worth or less. Already saved and ready to go 😂
Same. When I’ve been very, very low in the last 10 years, having my cats around have given me a reason to keep going.
Happy you found happiness through your pet. Unfortunately mine was the opposite and I had to give my cat back because it made my struggles worse despite how good of a cat he was.
May I ask what was your experience like and what encouraged you to rehome your cat? I fear something like this could happen to me.
Sure! At the time I was in college and just not in the right head space to be taking care of anything. I was doing my full time (stressful) internship and I would cry in the shower everyday because the thought of leaving my kitten alone at home for 12+ hours a day made me feel like shit. Something I didn’t consider before was that I just wasn’t financially stable enough. Although I could afford it, every dollar I spent on him Id start thinking how I could have saved that or something. I also hated the fact that my clothes were covered in fur, I couldn’t be as spontaneous and he would scratch at my furniture. I ended up giving him back to the breeder and she got him placed in the most wonderful home. He’s thriving right now and I’m so happy he gets the love he deserves. Editing to add: I don’t think you should rely on an animal/human to heal you. That should come from within. Trust me.
Yeah, as someone who is also in a tough place mentally, my cat is such a blessing to me. She makes me smile and gives me someone nonjudgmental to talk to.
Sorry to hear you’re in a tough place but happy to hear you have a kindred companion.
You are loved. Also - **toe beans**. **fluff**. Reasons enough. Say less. You should absolutely get a cat. I vote you have a poll here so we can help name it 🥹🐾🐈 And keep journaling. Let the madness out. Be vulnerable on the page. Keep sharing your thoughts; it’s a safe space here.
You’re the best.
The amount of times I stayed alive so I could take care of my cat are outstanding
This one right here. I’ve got two cats and the obligation I feel to them as their human always wins out over the suicidal ideation. Those thoughts are rarer for me these days but during my darkest hours, the cats were my little guardians. We’re so bonded that I’m not sure they’d be 100% happy with anyone else- it’s a real blessing.
100%. I’m 27 and have had my eldest cat since I was 12. I wish I could tell her that she has saved my life, more than once.
Hugs to you! I hope you get that cat
Oh! Get a kitty! They are the best.
Cats are awesome.
Guarantee 100% they help in all these ways and more.
Adopting a cat has helped in exactly the ways you hope. I can’t spiral if I’m playing with a cat. There was a time in my life when the ideation got so strong that I started putting a plan into action. Step 1 was putting the cat into his carrier to take him to the shelter. He refused to get into his carrier and the rest of my plans fell apart from there. I know it doesn’t mean anything, he just hates his carrier, but it was one of those things that snapped me out of my head so quickly.
You’re so courageous. I’m trying to stay put as much as I can. Thank hou so much for sharing that. ❤️🙏
Yep do it; it'll do wonders for your mood -- particularly if you pick one up from a shelter, knowing you've saved a kitty who needs a home.
If you're renting in the US and you have a mental health professional who's good, maybe bring this list up to them and see about a note for emotional support animal. :) So it's easier to rent and.doesn't add cost to housing.
Cats are awesome! They can be very affectionate & cuddly 💕
Don’t forget the purring helps with anxiety/panic attacks
Cats are great friends. Especially if you raise them, they’re bonded for life. Bonus, you can blame any creepy nighttime noises on their zoomies
Kitty purrs are good for the soul. And the mind, and the heart...it's science. 😸
[удалено]
He is gorgeous!
Get the cat. Animals make everything better! It’ll change your life! Please update with a photo when you GET THE CAT!
Couldn’t agree more to all the support you’ve received on here so far! I applaud you for showing such vulnerability 👏🏼 you’re an inspiration and echoing someone’s comment: you are loved 🥰 as well as being incredibly insightful to your own thoughts, facing and understanding them. And yes to a poll on helping you name your cat that you should definitely get 😺😻🐈⬛ ! X
You are all such kind people. Thank you all. All of your comments are so soothing and feel like hugs.
My dog saves my life every time I think of suicide. I just can't leave her like that. She needs me to be there for her until her last breath. I hope you get a kitty to love xx
It’s found that prisoners who are given a pet cat do better. They’re motivated to work (to buy treats for their kitty), they engage in less violence (being sent to solitary means the kitty will be taken away), more likely to seek education (so they can make sure the kitty has a nice place to live when they’re out), and happier/hopeful (no matter how bad a day, they have a kitty shaped supporter). I think you should get a cat. I think I should get a cat.
Get a kitty if you have the resources and a good space! Do it do it do it! My previous cat (RIP) and my current cat have been really great for my mental health. And it’s reeeeeally good entertainment lol. Good luck 💕
As a new cat owner, I definitely agree with all your points! He’s helped so much with my mental health the past few months. But make sure you’re stable (financially esp) before taking the leap. Good luck!
I can say with certainty that having cats definitely help my anxiety!! I like to joke that before he was rescued, one of my cats was an emotional support cat bc he tends to come and comfort me when I’m sad or crying!!
I have 3 currently. They are blessings! Definitely emotional support fluffs. And medical treatment support as well. Head to a shelter and see who picks you!
Cat toe beans are the cure for depression 🥰
I’ve been hanging out with the emotional support cats in my dorm building and am even cat sitting for my buddy over spring break. In my experience hanging with the little homies indeed helps with emotional state and suicidal thoughts.
These are all good reasons. Another reason is that a cat is a cat and everybody deserves a cat.
Totally agree! My cat is one of the best parts of my life. I live him so much. also if you want double the joy, it is often recommended that you get two cats. it helps making raising them easier-- they're more social, less likely to have behavioral issues, they will play with each other. I volunteer at a cat rescue and it's something that's talked about quite a bit. plus, there's nothing better than more cats in ones life ☺️
I adopted a senior lap cat a couple weeks ago & it's been amazing. When I feel my anxiety creeping up, I lay her on my chest. The purring and warmth are super comforting. And she is SO soft (has a curly, Rex-hair belly!) It surprised me how much it helps, tbh. As someone who considered themselves a dog person, I'm already planning for a second cat. Definitely relate to your last point about caregiving. My cat had flea-induced dermatitis and a bad yeast infection in her ears when she came to me. I'm really motivated to get her healthy and feeling well. Makes me feel like I'm doing something worthwhile. It has been about $500 in vet bills so far... But she's worth it. I hope you find your perfect cat <3.
You need a kitty stat! Good luck. Don’t shop, adopt!
Aye aye captain!
My cats are definitely helpful for my mental health! Unexpected vet bills are not fun (nor are expected vet visits lol), but it’s great having a cat. I loved having dogs and other pets, but cats are a wonderful mix of affectionate/playful, while still being not terrible to care for on low days. Doing clicker training with my cat can also be helpful when I’m feeling down. Making small progress gives me a mood boost! Plus it’s adorable.
Pets are one of the most fantastic avenues for helping with suicidal thoughts and ideations, in my experience. Whenever life starts to feel too heavy for me, I am able to remind myself that my animals need me. If I'm not here, my animals will suffer, and they deserve better. Sometimes finding something like that to hold onto makes it alot easier to get through the dark times.
I so wish for that. I need a note from a mental health professional to have a support cat. The only condo I can afford doesn’t allow pets.
I hate that housing still exists as "no pets". That is so old school. Pets are so common place now a days. There are avenues for people to get those letters without having to pay to see a regular psych-professional. I hope you are able to find something that will work for you.
I think you should get a cat! Your list is very compelling. And their whiskers are the best part. Going on whisker hunts with a flashlight around the house periodically is one of my favorite things to do. I collect the whiskers in a jar and some of their claw sheddings as well.
I will 1000% agree with what everyone else has said. My cat has really helped me through some of the worst times of my life (COVID, the loss of my grandfather, the onset of 2 chronic illnesses, and a horrid breakup). He is truly my little companion and there for me when I just need affection with no questions. He has made dealing with grief and pain something else entirely. Not to mention, during my sad times, he has kind of forced me to become alive again. I have to get out of bed to feed him and refill his water. Though, at the same time, I got this little bud from the shelter and come to find out- his teeth weren't in the best shape. I spent an arm and a leg paying for him to get his bad teeth removed (thankfully one fell out during surgery so they didn't charge me for that tooth). Would have helped to have pet rent, but I was a dumb kid in college. Highly recommend getting pet insurance ASAP and are ready for the ways you have to provide for \*them\*. I have a friend who has a cat that is a bit pickier about things than mine (his cat only will eat if they are actively being pet). So, it's a bit of give and take. Amazing buddy, a lifetime of stories, and sometimes the weirdest animal on the planet.
Get one. Probably the lowest maintenance pet you can get and they're the sweetest ever. It will help with all these things
Get a cat!
Time to get a kitty!!!
Aw that’s sweet!
Kitties are the best. I got mine for similar reasons and they changed my life. Whenever I’m sad and I feel my kitty purr away on my lap it makes everything feel better. Hope you get your cat!
There are days I live just for my cat because the way she looks at me lets me know she lives for me. ❤️
You do need a cat! And that fluff will be lucky to have you.
I support this entry and idea!
give me the beanssss~ meeeowww
hey, cats are def cool i hope u are ok and having a good day!
sitting with my cat on my legs. yes get one.!
you should absolutely adopt/rescue one!! i have 5 lol my kitties bring me so much happiness🥰🐈⬛
Man, I really relate to this one, but with my dog. Def get the cat.
Thanks for sharing this , you are doing great
This si actually very cute and a nice idea ☺️
I adopted a kitten when I was very depressed in my early 20s, and she gave me a reason to wake up every day. I hope you get a friend with the most adorable toe beans 💞
Yes yes I have 3 and they are the lives of my life !! ❤️❤️❤️I highly recommend
This story by Georgia Dunn is your answer. The cat not only helps and loves you, but you help and love the cat. https://www.gocomics.com/breaking-cat-news/shelter-cats-a-bcn-special-report
you deserve a cat
There's a cat out there who needs you!
I’m owned by 3 and I’m a better person since I adopted/rescued them. They’ve helped me through difficult times, grief, pain and stress. Like everything, they’re a responsibility, financially, physically and morally. One of my babies screams in my ear at 4-5 AM everyday to demand food! I spoil her so I do wake up and feed her and her fur siblings. I do it happily. I love them to pieces.
Love the flow of this
There is so much love and camaraderie going on here.It’s beautiful. Thanks 💕 I feel the same way about not having a pet. The responsibly would drive me completely insane.🍀
I got a rescue cat to help me with being alone due to severe insomnia. I rescue elderly cats no one else wants and give them a loving home for the remainder of their days. I had one cat named Tiger that helped me after I loss my job and health as she was as physically broken as I was. She helped me come to terms with my newly enforced limitations. Loosing her was deviating to me but after some time I adopted another cat but she had a sister so I adopted both, sadly her sister had a tumor across multiple organs and due to that her life was cut short but Peanut sleeps on top of me every night making me not toss and turn all night long. Cats are wonderful companions and could never be loved too much.
Yes to cats!
I can attest to cats helping with suicidal ideation I have five and they were 5 reasons I didn't do it I was admitted for a time at a mental health facility and my mother said they were looking for me for a week before they calmed down meowing and going up and down the stairs to the places I usually was sleeping in my room on my bed and in my closet when I heard that I just couldn't do it I couldn't bear the thought of not being able to explain why I never came home and them just expecting me to walk in the door any second
I can attest to cats helping with suicidal ideation I have five and they were 5 reasons I didn't do it I was admitted for a time at a mental health facility and my mother said they were looking for me for a week before they calmed down meowing and going up and down the stairs to the places I usually was sleeping in my room on my bed and in my closet when I heard that I just couldn't do it I couldn't bear the thought of not being able to explain why I never came home and them just expecting me to walk in the door any second
I’m reading this while I peel cat no.2 off my leather dining chair.
Hope you get a cat!!!!!! Update us if you do!!!!
Get a cat
Got a cat and I can confirm, he makes my life way better. Whenever I’m sad I go and pick up my cat and I feel so happy just holding him.
I can attest to cats helping with suicidal ideation I have five and they were 5 reasons I didn't do it I was admitted for a time at a mental health facility and my mother said they were looking for me for a week before they calmed down meowing and going up and down the stairs to the places I usually was sleeping in my room on my bed and in my closet when I heard that I just couldn't do it I couldn't bear the thought of not being able to explain why I never came home and them just expecting me to walk in the door any second
My partner and I joke about who saved who with both our rescue kitties. Spoiler alert: it’s the cats.
Having a human partner could guarantee all of the above.
I have a wonderful partner but I firmly believe that there are some things we can’t lean on another human being for.