Pets can provide many benefits to their owners, including companionship, exercise, and love. But did you know that certain pets can also help boost your mood and mental health? Here are the top six pets that can help improve your mental wellbeing.
Fish
Research has shown that keeping fish as pets can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. One study found that watching fish in an aquarium for just 30 minutes can significantly lower cortisol levels, the hormone produced during times of stress. Some people find fish boring or just not that interesting. However, if you go now and buy fish, you’ll see that they can be quite entertaining to watch as they swim around and play. Some fish even learn to recognize their owners and come to the front of the tank when they see them.
Dogs
Dogs have long been known as man’s best friend for a reason. They provide us with companionship, love, and security. Dogs also have a positive effect on our mental health. One study showed that dog owners had lower levels of depression and anxiety than those who didn’t own dogs. Another study found that people who suffer from PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) can find relief by owning a dog. The unconditional love and support that dogs offer can be extremely helpful for those struggling with mental health issues. For example, service dogs are often used to help people with anxiety disorders or depression.
Cats
While cats may not be as cuddly as dogs, they can still make great pets. Cats have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels in their owners. One study found that just 15 minutes of petting a cat can significantly lower cortisol levels. Cats also offer companionship and love and can be a great addition to the family. Additionally, cats can help keep mice and rats away, which can be beneficial if you live in an area with a lot of rodents. Cats are also beneficial for you because they require very little maintenance and are relatively low-cost pets.
Rabbits and Ferrets
Rabbits make great pets for people of all ages. They’re gentle, affectionate, and can be easily trained. Rabbits have also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels in their owners. One study found that just three minutes of petting a rabbit can significantly lower cortisol levels. Additionally, rabbits are low-maintenance pets that don’t require a lot of space. They can live indoors or outdoors and typically only need to be fed once a day. For example, you can put a rabbit’s food in a bowl and let them eat at their leisure. Ferrets are small, furry animals that make great companions. They’re playful, affectionate, and can be easily trained. Ferrets have also been shown to reduce stress levels in their owners. One study found that just 10 minutes of playtime with a ferret can significantly lower cortisol levels. Additionally, ferrets are low-maintenance pets that don’t require a lot of space. They can live indoors or outdoors and typically only need to be fed once a day. Ferrets are also relatively quiet, making them ideal pets for people who live in apartments or other small spaces.
Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs are another small pet that makes great companions. They’re social animals that enjoy being around people and other guinea pigs. Guinea pigs have also been shown to reduce stress levels in their owners. One study found that just 10 minutes of handling a guinea pig can significantly lower cortisol levels. Additionally, guinea pigs are low-maintenance pets that don’t require a lot of space. They can live indoors or outdoors and typically only need to be fed once a day. Guinea pigs are also relatively quiet, making them ideal pets for people who live in apartments or other small spaces. Additionally, guinea pigs are relatively low-cost pets.
Birds
Birds are often overlooked as pets, but they can make great companions. Birds are known to reduce stress levels and anxiety in their owners. One study found that just 30 minutes of watching birds can significantly lower cortisol levels. Birds also offer companionship and love, and some people find them very therapeutic to watch. If you’re considering getting a bird, make sure to do your research first to find the best type of bird for you. Additionally, birds require a lot of care and attention, so make sure you’re prepared to commit to taking care of a bird before you get one.
Pets can offer us companionship, love, and security. They can also help boost our mood and mental health. If you’re considering getting a pet, consider one of these top options that will help reduce stress and anxiety levels. Also, be sure to do your research to find the best type of pet for you and your family.
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