"Cat-assisted therapy" is a kind of treatment for people struggling with issues such as addiction and trauma that include the use of cats.
Cats' soothing and reassuring presence might help people manage stress and anxiety.
Residential treatment institutions, outpatient clinics, and individual therapy sessions employ cat-assisted therapy.
Cats can help individuals with addiction and trauma develop a sense of responsibility and purpose, which can be beneficial for their recovery
The presence of cats can help individuals feel more relaxed and comfortable during therapy sessions, which can lead to increased openness and trust
Cat-assisted therapy can also help individuals develop better social skills and communication skills, as they learn to interact with the cats and their handlers
Cats can provide a sense of companionship and unconditional love, which can be especially important for individuals who have experienced trauma or feel isolated and alone
Cat-assisted therapy can be used in conjunction with other types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based therapy
Research has shown that animal-assisted therapy can be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Cat-assisted therapy has been shown to be particularly effective for individuals who have a fear of dogs or other animals