People living with or caring for a loved one with dementia can find out about the wellbeing benefits of cat ownership at this year’s Alzheimer’s Show.
Cats Protection will be at the event, at Olympia London from 7-8 June, to help visitors find out about the soothing effects of owning a cat.
A study by Cats Protection and the Mental Health Foundation of over 600 cat and non-cat owning respondents showed that 87% of respondents who owned a cat felt it had a positive impact on their wellbeing, while 76% said they could cope with everyday life much better thanks to the company of their feline friends.
Cats Protection’s Events Manager Emma Osborne said: “Cats make wonderful pets and we’re often told they can be a great comfort for people who either have health conditions or are caring for loved ones.
“Whether it’s sitting and stroking a cat, enjoying watching their playful antics or simply the routine of caring for one, cat ownership can bring a great sense of balance and wellbeing to people’s lives.”
Cats Protection is the UK’s largest cat charity, helping around 200,000 cats a year through a network of over 250 volunteer-led branches and 36 centres.
As well as finding out about adopting a cat, visitors to Cats Protection’s stand at the Alzheimer’s Show can browse a range of cat-related merchandise and find out how to become a volunteer for the charity.
Visitors will be able to find out about the charity’s Paws to Listen service, a free support service to help grieving owners cope with the loss of their cat. There will also be information about Cats Protection’s Cat Guardians scheme, which gives peace of mind to cat owners concerned about what might happen if they pass away before their pet.
For more information about adopting a cat from Cats Protection, please visit www.cats.org.uk
