According to research by UCLA Health on Animal-Assisted Therapy, petting animals promotes the release of serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin – all hormones that elevate mood. So, if you struggle with your emotional health, it’s time to get a pet for emotional support. And if you’re a cat person, you’re in luck because, in this post, you’ll find the best emotional support cats to choose from.
Let’s dive in!
Why Choose a Cat for Emotional Support?
You might be thinking, why not dogs? Contrary to popular belief, cats make excellent emotional support animals. These furry felines are adorable, silly, and regal, all at the same time, and if you’re a fairly independent person who loves solitude, an emotional support cat will make a perfect companion.
Unlike dogs, cats are independent, so they don’t require much attention. You need a pet that cares more for you than you care for it. And caring for a dog demands more time and effort, which takes away the whole point of an emotional support animal.
A cat’s autonomous nature is often misunderstood and labeled as indifferent towards their owners. However, cats can be even more caring than dogs once they’ve imprinted on their owner.
So, without further ado, let’s look at the 10 best emotional support cats:
1. American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a family favorite and consistently ranks as one of the most popular cat breeds. With an even temperament, above average intelligence, and calm nature, the American Shorthair can get along with other pets and children as well. Thanks to its sociable nature, this cat makes a great companion for playtime and relaxation.
2. Ragdolls
Ragdolls are extremely friendly and one of the few breeds that seek out human companionship. They are mild-mannered and like to follow people around the house, often sleeping with or laying on their owners. Hence, Ragdolls rank among the best emotional support cats, particularly because they’re equally friendly around other pets and people.
Plus, you can train them to play fetch and roll over just like a dog.
3. American Bobtail
The American Bobtail is a newly-discovered cat breed and officially became recognized in 2002. If you need a partner for dinner or plop down next on the couch next to you for a night of Netflix and chill, this cat breed’s the one you need. According to Emotional Pet Support, the American Bobtail is among the world’s most affectionate cat breeds.
And if you don’t like noise, you’ll be glad to know these cats aren’t very vocal.
4. Persian
The cute and fluffy Persian is a classic for many cat lovers. They’re gentle, quiet, and attached to their owners. Although their fluffy coat requires regular cleaning, Persian owners consider it a worthy sacrifice. And if you need a cat that welcomes you home with purrs and meows, look no further.
5. Abyssinian
Like American Shorthairs, Abyssinian cats are extremely sociable and will welcome you home from work and make sure you give them some love. This majestic breed of emotional support cat is among the oldest known breeds on Earth. Abyssinians aren’t the type to lie around napping on the stairs or couch.
They like to run around and play with the owners, so if you’re looking for someone to keep you emotionally available at all times, adopt an Abyssinian cat today.
6. Russian Blue
The Russian Blue is among the quietest and intelligent cat breeds. They are less demanding than other felines in terms of attention and care but equally affectionate – all traits that independent cat owners are looking for.
The Russian Blue won’t mind if you leave it on its own, which is great for people who live alone. More importantly, it will be overjoyed to see you when you return because they choose to bond with one person over others.
7. Bengal
The Bengal is an active and athletic cat. It’s not the cuddliest cat breed out there but still loves attention. Plus, it’s one of the only breeds you can train to walk while wearing a leash. So, whenever you’re up for a stroll in the park or street, you can take your little Bengal buddy with you.
8. Manx
If you’re looking for a unique pet for emotional support, a Manx is one of them. Best known for not having a tail, the Manx is a gentle, loving, and intelligent cat breed. You could play fetch with them, and if you don’t mind the neighborhood cat gossip, you’d love their special cat voice. One of the Manx’s best things is that they lavish all of their affection on one person, usually their owner.
So, if you want a pet, that’s yours alone, look no further.
9. Maine Coon
If you love big cats, the Maine Coon is one of North America’s largest cat breeds. These cats are slowly becoming America’s favorite cat breed, especially in the Northern states where it gets really cold. They are very active and trainable. And one of their best qualities is that they develop a good understanding with their owners, children, and other pets.
10. Sphynx
If the thought of constant grooming and fur balls makes you want to rethink your decision, why now get a Sphynx? The Sphynx is one of the most unique cat breeds in the world with a suede-like coat. This smart and affectionate hairless cat demands cuddling because of their low body temperature and follows its owner around the house.
And if their constant need for attention becomes annoying, get another one to keep your current one company.
How to Choose from the Best Emotional Support Cats?
Ultimately, choosing a cat for emotional support is your personal decision. We can only go as recommending the best and most reliable cat breeds for this purpose. However, based on our picks of the best emotional support cats, you can easily decide which one suits your emotional needs best.
