However it’s not impossible. But understanding why do indoor cats get sick more often, and why some cats live so much longer than others, requires us to rethink something fundamental about how cats are meant to live.

The comparison we’ve been getting wrong

When veterinarians and animal welfare organizations talk about indoor cat lifespan being longer, they are comparing indoor cats to feral and stray cats who are struggling on their own. Fighting for food, exposed to disease, hit by cars. Of course a well-fed indoor cat outlives a cat surviving alone on the streets. That is not a meaningful comparison.

The comparison nobody makes is this: an indoor cat versus a cat in a properly managed cat colony. A colony where cats are fed daily, monitored for health, given veterinary care when needed, and living in a safe, stable outdoor environment. That comparison tells a completely different story about outdoor cat health and I have been watching it play out for decades right in front of my eyes.

Meet Buster and his colony counterparts

Sanctuary cat

Buster, age 21

Buster has lived his entire life indoors with enrichment toys, regular play sessions, and plenty of love. But at 21, the signs of aging are unmistakable. He struggles with joint stiffness, has developed dental problems, and has been diagnosed with feline dementia. His eyes show his age (yes eyes are the mirror into the health) . He is a cherished member of my sanctuary family, but his body tells the story of a life that may not have fully matched what his biology was built for. Don’t get me wrong, he is healthy and will probably live another 3-4 years but his biology does not match some of my colony cats who are surpassed his age.

Managed colony cats

Several members, ages 22–23

Out in the fields, several of my managed colony cats are now 22 and 23 years old. They are climbing trees. Their teeth are clean and white. Their eyes are bright and clear. There is no sign of cognitive decline. Watching them move through their territory, you would never guess their age. They are living proof that cats can live past 20 years old in remarkable health when their lifestyle supports it.

Managed colony cats vs indoor cats — a side-by-side look

Why indoor cats get sick: the lifestyle mismatch

Cats are not fully domesticated in the way that dogs are. Their bodies, instincts, and nutritional needs were shaped over thousands of years as hunters living close to the land. A cat’s natural diet is not kibble from a bag, it’s a varied mix of whole prey, plants, and grasses that deliver nutrients no commercial food has fully been able to replicate. When we remove all of that and replace it with four walls and a food bowl, something is lost, even with the best of intentions and plenty of love.

It’s true and yes my colony cats eat commercial food. But they also supplement with birds, mice, and insects that give them nutrients that are hard to bottle and not available to indoor cats. They chew through bones that naturally clean their teeth. They graze on sun-grown grasses and plants that have a very different nutritional profile from the houseplant sitting in a shaded corner of a living room. They run, leap, climb, stalk, and pounce, not just for five minutes with a wand toy, but all day long, because that is what their bodies are designed to do.

Now look at the rise of chronic disease in cats. Feline chronic kidney disease (CKD) is now one of the most common diagnoses in senior cats. Feline diabetes is increasingly common in middle-aged and older cats. Cat hyperthyroidism has gone from a rare finding to an almost routine diagnosis. These conditions were almost unheard of in cats a generation or two ago. They have grown alongside the rise of the fully indoor, processed-food-only lifestyle. That is not a coincidence, it’s a lifestyle mismatch playing out in real time.

How to help indoor cats live longer

I am not saying every cat should live outdoors, for many cats and many situations, that is not safe or possible. But there are meaningful steps every owner can take to close the gap between how indoor cats live and how they are biologically built to live. Good cat enrichment indoors is not just about keeping cats entertained, it is about keeping them healthy.

1. Create real vertical movement

   Invest in tall cat trees, wall-mounted shelves, and tunnels. Cats need to climb and jump at different heights every day, not just walk between rooms on flat ground.

2. Try a catio or leash walks

   A securely enclosed outdoor space or supervised leash time gives your cat real sunlight, fresh air, and the natural stimulation of being outdoors without free-roaming risks.

3. Vary the diet

   Talk to your vet about adding raw or freeze-dried food and rotating protein sources to get closer to a cat’s natural diet and broaden the nutrients they receive.

4. Grow sun-facing cat grasses

   Place cat grass and safe herbs in a sunny window. Plants grown in direct sunlight offer richer nutrition than those kept in low-light indoor corners.

5. Stimulate the hunt

   Use puzzle feeders and hunting-style toys that make cats work for their food. The act of hunting, not just eating, is essential for both mental and physical health.

6. Monitor senior cat health early

   Don’t wait until 15 to start asking questions. Regular dental checks, bloodwork, and weight monitoring from middle age can catch CKD, diabetes, and thyroid issues early.

What the cats have taught me

I did not set out to prove a theory. I set out to take care of cats. But after watching hundreds of cats across a sanctuary and a managed colony over many years, what I see cannot be ignored. The cats living closest to their natural lifestyle are the ones with the best senior cat health, the longest lives, and, I genuinely believe, the greatest wellbeing.

Buster is loved. He is cared for. He will live out his days in comfort and warmth. But when I look at my 23-year-old colony cat still climbing a tree at sunrise, I can’t help but wonder what Buster’s life might have looked like if he had been able to do the same.

This Advent season, I shared the stories of just a few of the many lives touched here. Each cat came from a difficult beginning. Some were sick. Some were frightened. Some were discarded. And yet, every one of them showed me what resilience, love, and trust truly look like.

Christmas Eve is a moment to pause and reflect.

• I hope that all of my cats continue to feel safe, loved, and protected.

• I hope I can save many more who still need help.

• I hope caregivers everywhere find strength, rest, and support, because this work is not easy, and it asks so much of the heart.

• And most of all, I hope that the coming year brings fewer abandoned animals, more compassion, and more kindness toward all living beings.

Every life matters. Every small act of care matters.
And every person who chooses kindness makes this world a little better.

From my sanctuary family to yours, thank you for being here, for caring, and for walking this journey with me. 🎄✨

Deaf and blind cats are often deemed unadoptable, because many people assume they’re too hard to care for, or that they won’t have a good quality of life. They picture a life full of medical problems or constant stress.

But that’s far from the true.

Deaf and blind cats just experience the world in a very different way. They rely on scent, touch, routine, and love.

People Often Misunderstand Deaf and Blind Cats

I often hear people saying to me that it is cruel to keep a deaf and blind cat alive. But when you have been working with cats for a long time, you start to understand the inner workings of a cat.

When people make a statement like this, they are imagining what they would feel if they were deaf and blind. But cats are not humans. They don’t fear disability the way we do. They live in the moment, not in fear of what they “lost.”

In our human minds, when we imagine “complete darkness,” we imagine fear, isolation, and grief. But we have to remember that this is a human experience, tied to our thoughts, our memories, and our fears.

Cats don’t think this way. I have never met a deaf and blind cat that grieves because they lost their hearing or their sight. What I have seen is that they adapt. And they lean into the senses that still work beautifully for them: scent, touch, vibration, routine, memory, and trust.

To deaf and blind cats, the world is still full — full of smells, textures, warmth, safety, and the people they trust. They don’t live in darkness. They live in scent and touch and comfort.

Andy and Annabelle are My Special Needs Cats

Andy is my deaf resident and Annabelle has lost most of her vision and is deaf. Andy was found outside and taken in by a rescue who could not get anyone to adopt him so they asked if I could take him into my sanctuary. And Annabelle was born outside in a colony. She was born blind and deaf.

Andy and Annabelle don’t know that the world has labeled them “disabled. They don’t carry the heaviness that humans feel when they imagine life without sight or sound. All they know is my scent, my touch, my warmth, and my immense love for them.

Andy may not be able to hear his name, but when I enter a room, he feels the air shift and knows it’s me. He recognizes the rhythm of my footsteps. He relaxes because, to him, I am a place where food, comfort, and love come from.

Annabelle, with her the loss of her vision and the silent world around her, leans on me even more. She maps her life through scent and memory. She trusts the path she knows — the safe path I have created for her. To her, blindness isn’t darkness.
It’s familiarity. It’s security. It’s the gentle confidence of knowing where her person is.

Consider Adopting a Special Needs Cat

When you choose to care for a special needs cat, you are showing the deepest kind of compassion. A compassion that sees value where the world sees “too difficult.”
A compassion that says, “Your life matters. I will help you feel safe.”

For those of you who are considering adopting or fostering a deaf and blind cat, I urge you to download my free eBook “A Comprehensive Guide to Nurturing a Deaf and Blind Cat: Insights from Adoption to Enrichment”.

This guide was created not only for individual cat owners, but also for shelters, rescues, and colony caregivers who may suddenly find themselves responsible for a deaf and blind cat. It includes real-world tips for home setup, communication through touch, enrichment, and health monitoring.

Along with the free eBook, I urge you to check out my blog post and video guidelines on caring for deaf and blind cats — all available on my website. Each one explains simple steps you can use right away.

DOWNLOAD NOW

About Mimi

For over 25 years, I’ve been caring for the cats most people give up on — FeLV, FIV, blind, deaf, disabled, senior, feral, and behaviorally challenged cats. At my sanctuary, Love and Whiskers, I’ve learned first-hand that with patience, structure, and the right care, these cats are not only savable but can live long, meaningful lives.

You can find out more about me, my sanctuary, my cats and The Whisker School for rescues and colony caregivers on my website.

There are some goodbyes you never truly say. You just carry them quietly, tucked deep inside your heart. Mommy was one of those souls.

Mommy was a senior cat residing in one of the cat colonies I care for with other caregivers. She lived to be 21 years old. We took over the care of that colony when the primary caregiver passed away. At that time, Mommy was 6 years old. She was not spayed and we were told she was the matriarch of that colony, a wild little legend who built her own colony from scratch.

A lot of people criticized the primary caregiver for not spaying Mommy, but the truth is she loved those cats deeply — she just didn’t have the resources or support to do more than feed them and keep them safe. She looked for help, but there was no help and being a pensioner she was living on a fixed income. However she did something that no one else did in that town. For six years, she showed up for them, every single day, making sure they were fed and safe.

Without help, the small group of cats grew to 32. When we stepped in years later, we were finally able to get everyone spayed and neutered, and now the colony is stable and healthy.

This is a reminder that many kind people are out there doing their best with what little they have. Instead of judging, we can choose to offer help, guidance, or even just kindness. That’s how real change happens — one caring heart at a time.

Mommy blessed our colony with her steady presence for 15 years. She was more than just a cat to us—she was family, a wise elder, and a reminder of the resilience and beauty of life.

Every morning, Mommy after breakfast, would go for a walk in the fields, but she would always come back after an hour or two. And this was her routine for 15 years. One morning she walked towards the fields, stopped, looked back at us for about a minute, as if to say “Thank You” and “Good Bye” and she walked into the field. We thought she would come back after an hour or two, but she never did come back. We believe she knew it was her time, choosing her way to leave with dignity. Though our hearts are heavy, we honor her choice and will forever carry her pawprints in our hearts. 🌿🐾

When she left us, it wasn’t peaceful for our hearts, even if it was peaceful for her. People sometimes say, “You’ve been through so many losses — doesn’t it get easier?” No, it doesn’t. Every cat who leaves takes a little piece of us with them. We don’t harden; we just learn to carry love and loss at the same time.

One of our caregivers still goes out every evening, calling for her. She knows Mommy’s gone — we all do — but hope has its own rhythm. It takes time to quiet down. I understand her. Sometimes we look for them not because we expect them to return, but because we’re not ready to stop loving them.

People often misunderstand what we do. They think rescue means taking every cat indoors, keeping them “safe.” But safety can look different for every cat. Some feral cats lose their spirit when confined — they stop eating, hide, and fade. Out in their world, though, they thrive. They feel the wind, the sun, and the earth beneath their paws. Mommy was one of those. She belonged to the wild corners of our hearts.

Letting her live that way, and letting her go that way, was our final act of love.

We grieve every cat — feral, friendly, young, or old. We remember every name, every face, every paw that touched our lives.

Rescue is not about being strong all the time. It’s about loving enough to break your heart over and over again — and still show up the next day to feed, to heal, to hope.

Mommy taught me that love isn’t always about holding on.

Sometimes, it’s about letting go gently.

She was loved by many. Thank you to everyone who cared for her and loved her from near and far.

Good bye sweet Mommy. You will forever live in my heart! 💔

Recently, a woman reached out to me in distress. Her cat, who had been part of her family for eight years, suddenly attacked her young daughter. The incident wasn’t severe, but it frightened her, and her first reaction was to get rid of the cat. She said if no rescue could take him, she would have him euthanized.

I offered to help, and when I picked up the cat, I asked the vet to run some tests. What we found confirmed my suspicion, he had a badly infected tooth. The poor boy was in terrible pain. I can see the scenario. The little girl touched his face, it hurt so much that he swatted at her to protect himself. It wasn’t aggression. It was pain.

Sadly, this story isn’t rare. Another rescue told me about an older cat who was being surrendered for urinating around the house. The owner never took him to the vet. When the rescue did, they discovered he had kidney disease, a very common condition in senior cats. That poor cat wasn’t misbehaving; he was trying to say, “I don’t feel well.”

If you are interested in learning more about “litter box avoidance”, check out my comprehensive post on this subject.

Why is My Cat Peeing Everywhere in the House?

It’s heartbreaking to see how quickly some people give up on their pets. A cat can’t tell us with words when something hurts or when they feel unwell. They show us through changes in their behavior, hiding, biting, peeing outside the box, or acting differently. These are not acts of defiance. They are forms of communication.

Before deciding to give up on a cat, please take time to look for the reason behind the behavior. Visit the vet, check for pain or illness, and consider stress or changes in the home. Sometimes the problem is easy to fix once you understand what’s causing it.

Our cats depend on us. They love us in their quiet ways and trust us to care for them, especially when something isn’t right. They don’t ask to be sick or scared. They just ask to be understood.

Let’s be their voice, their comfort, and their protector, not their judge.

Quick tips

Before giving up on your cat, check these first:

1. Schedule a vet visit to rule out pain or illness.

2. Look for recent changes (new pet, move, stress).

3. Offer a calm space and gentle reassurance.

4. Ask for help, rescues and educators like Love and Whiskers Cat Sanctuary are here for you.

💛If this story touched you, I invite you to learn more about the work I do at Love and Whiskers Cat Sanctuary, a safe haven for cats that others gave up on: seniors, disabled cats, FeLV and FIV cats, and those labeled as “unadoptable.”

Through my educational project, Whisker School, I also teach cat owners, rescuers, and shelters how to understand and care for these special cats, because every life matters.

If you’d like to support our mission or learn more, please visit my website. 💛
Even a small donation helps me continue saving cats that others overlook.

The Harsh Reality of Colony Care

If you haven’t cared for a cat colony you don’t realize the amount of work that goes into it. It's so much more than just feeding. Not only do they have to be fed daily, preferably twice a day, but they often need medical care, they need to be spayed and neutered, they have to have a safe place to live, and lastly, the most important part of caring for a colony, is to shield them from those who consider them pests rather than living animals worthy of compassion.

Unlike animal shelters, which receive money and donations, caregivers in colonies use their own finances to care for the colony -food, medical care, supplies, and shelters. Most of them have full-time jobs but still manage to find the time — even on bad weather days (try caring for a colony during a snowstorm) — to tend to their colonies. Some caregivers take on second jobs to cover the cost of cat food, medical expenses, and supplies.

My Personal Cat Colony Story

🖤 In Memory of Boo & Finn 🐾

A Love That Lives On

Boo was one of the last kittens born into a feral colony I care for. Her father, Finn, had roamed that same colony for years. He was strong, wild, and free—he’d fathered many kittens before I came along.

I took in Boo and her siblings while Finn waited his turn to be neutered. Once his time came, we released him back. But I always hoped to bring him into my sanctuary one day. I was working on socializing him, little by little. Then, one day… he disappeared.

Months later, Boo passed away. My heart broke.

On the day of her funeral, Finn returned.

Out of nowhere, after being gone for months, he showed up. I was overwhelmed with emotion. It felt like he knew. Maybe he came to say goodbye to her… or maybe he came to see me. I ran inside to grab him treats and food—thinking maybe, just maybe, it was time.

But when I came back… he was gone.
And I’ve never seen him since.

In memory of Boo. And wherever you are, Finn… I hope you’re safe and loved.

The first time I met Boo, she ran under a shed and was peaking at me. She was a little feral kitten.

The day of Boo’s funeral….

Lack of Support from the Community and Local Government

One of the most frustrating aspects of colony caregiving is the lack of assistance from city hall and local officials. Not many cities budget for and have programs to deal with feral cat colonies humanely. Instead of joining forces with caregivers to implement good Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs, some municipalities pass ordinances that outright ban feral colonies, leaving caregivers to fight to relocate cats—a long and costly ordeal.

Even in the community at large, there is a lack of support. Individuals complain about cat colonies around their homes, citing such problems as cats killing birds, spraying on doors, or digging up flowerbeds. What they fail to appreciate is that quality colony management through TNR reduces these behaviors. Sterilization reduces spraying and leads to populations stabilizing rather than growing out of control. However, instead of lending a hand, most of them opt to file complaints against the cats and caregivers, risking their lives.

The Financial Strain of Colony Care

TNR is not free. Even when programs offer discounted rates, to spay or neuter 30 cats can be thousands of dollars. Pet stores, vet clinics, and local organizations sometimes give donated food and supplies, but donations are never regular. And donations from these places are often food that is way beyond the due date or the bags are torn which leaves the food vulnerable to moisture and the can wet food are often dented. Not ideal in the least. Yes these are colony cats however they shouldn’t be treated like garbage. My local SPCA gives us big bags of dry food, the cheapest of the cheap, which I find quite insulting as I know for a fact that they get financial support from the city I live in. I can buy that cheap food myself. What I need is a high quality food that will provide these cats a good nutrition so that they can maintain a good immune health to help with any illness they may encounter living outside. All these hurdles leave caregivers always fighting to have enough to feed their colonies so they don't starve and don’t get sick.

The reality of Colony Kittens

So many people think kittens will be "okay" if left in a colony… but the truth is:

Kittens born outside face heartbreaking risks:

• Predators: Foxes, coyotes, dogs, even large birds can kill kittens.

• Cars: Kittens don’t understand danger and often hide under hoods or cross roads.

• Parasites & Disease: Fleas, worms, FeLV, FIV, and more can kill them quickly.

• Weather: Rain, cold, or heat can be fatal — kittens can’t regulate their body temperature well.

• Starvation: Weak kittens can’t always compete for food.

• Lack of Socialization: The longer they stay outside, the harder it is to tame them, and they may never get adopted.

Many kittens don’t survive.
The few who do often grow up sick, scared, or suffering. These kittens shown below were lucky! I took care of them right away, feeding them three times a day, ensuring they were safe, and getting help for them right away. Thankfully it was summer time because caring for kittens during cold weather is an uphill battle.

These kittens were rescued and successfully vetted and adopted into forever homes. The mother found a home with one of the caregivers. She was quite feral but now she is quite the snuggle bug. The four kittens are shown below except that Chubby shown in the first image (the little guy standing at the side while the others are eating), was adopted right away by one of the caregivers so no adoption photo is available.

And their beautiful mother, who was also adopted by a caregiver…

How the Community Can Help

These cats aren’t someone else’s problem. Feral and stray cats didn’t choose this life — they were born into it or abandoned.
They live in our neighborhoods, so they’re part of our community.
When we all pitch in — even in small ways — the colony crisis becomes a thing of the past.

Here are some ways people can help:

• Donate food or supplies – Even a small bag of kibble can make a big difference.

• Support local TNR programs – If your town doesn’t have one, advocate for change.

• Volunteer – Even an hour of your time can help feed a colony or transport a cat to the vet.

• Educate others – Help dispel myths about feral cats and the effectiveness of TNR.

• Be compassionate – Instead of complaining about cat colonies, ask how you can help improve the situation.

My Role in Helping Unwanted Cats

I run a cat sanctuary that takes in unwanted, sick, and special-needs cats, but I am also involved in caring for many cat colonies in my small town. I have seen firsthand the struggles caregivers face, and I hope this post sheds light on the reality of colony care. It’s time for communities to come together, not just to help the caregivers but also to ensure that these cats—who have been abandoned by humans—are not left to suffer in silence.

If you care about the well-being of animals, consider taking action. Every little bit helps, and together, we can make a difference.

In addition to caring for my own sanctuary cats, I also help feed multiple colony cats in my town. This is an enormous financial burden, and any support would be greatly appreciated. If you’d like to help, consider purchasing cat food from my Amazon Wishlist—it would make a world of difference for these cats.

You can visit my website and find out more about me and my cats. And if you can help me by buying cat food from my Amazon Wishlist. Thank you from me, my cats and all the colony cats I care for. And stay tuned for more to come.

I think we all at one time, actually those of us who are cat owners, wondered what this purring is all about. So just what is this purring, anyway? It’s a rhythmic contraction and release of the laryngeal muscles resulting in a steady stream of sound in cats at regular frequencies.

The purring range normally occurs between 25 Hz and 150 Hz, the area that falls under therapeutic sound frequencies applied in human medicine. Cats do not purr specifically for human beings; this is rather something innate to them biologically, as it may achieve numerous objectives-from communication to healing.

Evolutionary Purpose of Purring

To many of us, purring is just a cute quirk! But actually purring is a multifaceted tool for survival. For kittens, purring is a non-vocal way of communicating with their mothers, signaling safety and comfort. The act of purring is not only associated with happiness. Cats also purr when injured, scared or stressed and even during childbirth, which would also hint at its role in pain reduction and recovery.

How a Cat’s Purr Might Be the Secret to Their “Nine Lives”

The saying "cats have nine lives" came from how they always seem to survive situations that would seriously hurt other species of animals. While their quick reflexes and agility play a big part in this, there's something else that might be a factor-their purr.

As mentioned above, cats purr within a frequency of 25 to 150 Hz, which is the range that promotes healing in both animals and humans. Here's how purring might help cats recover:

1. Bone and Tissue Repair

The vibrations created by a cat’s purr has been shown to promote bone growth and repair. This is because the gentle vibrations stimulate the cells in their bodies, encouraging them to grow and heal faster. This might explain why cats recover from injuries like fractures more quickly than other species of animals.

2. Pain Relief

Purring doesn’t just help with physical healing—it can also reduce pain. The vibrations from purring release endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. This means that when a cat is hurt or uncomfortable, purring can help them feel better. It’s like a natural painkiller

3. Reducing Swelling and Inflammation

Injuries often cause swelling and inflammation, which can slow down the healing process. The vibrations from purring can help reduce swelling by improving blood flow and circulation. This allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach the injured area, helping it heal faster.

4. Stress Relief and Relaxation

When a cat purrs, it reduces stress, and the cat feels more relaxed and calmer. This is important because stress can slow down the healing process. By reducing stress levels, this allows the body to focus on what is important ─ repairing itself.

5. Healing After Birth

Mother cats often purr while giving birth and while nursing their kittens. This isn’t just to comfort the kittens—it’s also to help the mother cat heal. The vibrations from purring can help her body recover from the stress of childbirth and reduce any pain or discomfort she might be feeling.

6. Self-Healing During Illness

Cats are known to purr when they’re sick or injured. Whether they’re fighting off an infection or recovering from surgery, the vibrations from purring can help their bodies heal faster and more effectively.

Why is This So Important for Cats?

Cats are both predators and prey in the wild, which means they need to recover quickly from injuries to survive.

Not that cats have nine lives, but perhaps their purr is one of the major factors that make them bounce back from an injury with such ease. It is not just a sign of happiness; it's probably their body's way of healing itself.

How Can a Cat’s Purr Benefit a Human?

While cats use their purrs to heal themselves, the good news is that we can benefit from their purring too! Spending time with a purring cat can help us feel calmer, reduce stress, and even lower our blood pressure.

Benefits for Bone Healing and Growth

Scientists have proven that frequencies within the range of 25 Hz to 50 Hz can stimulate bone density and accelerate fracture healing. That explains why cats are so resilient; despite them being such great climbers and jumpers, they rarely, if ever, suffer from issues related to bones.

With these frequencies, exposure could perhaps be promising for humans in orthopedic recovery. Try it! I did it last year for corporal tunnel and it actually worked.

Stress Reduction and Emotional Wellbeing

If you are feeling stressed, pick up your cat and place the cat in your lap or next to your heart. The soothing hum of a cat’s purr has been shown to significantly reduce stress levels by lowering cortisol (the stress hormone). The humming of the purr helps activate the body’s relaxation response, leaving you calmer and more centered.

When I am feeling down, tired, sad, holding on to on of my cats (I have 34 in my sanctuary so there is no shortage of cats here!) is like an emotional anchor. Cats can sense when you’re feeling low, and their rhythmic purring acts like a warm, vibrating blanket that wraps you in comfort. It’s no wonder so many people turn to their cats for emotional support.

Cardiovascular Health

A lot of studies have shown that cat owners (and dog owners as well) are less likely to suffer from heart disease or high blood pressure. And why is that? Well for two reasons as you will see below:

Cats and Their Soothing Purrs

As a cat owner, you know how wonderful it is to feel the serenity of a purring cat. Beyond this, though, these slight vibrations have been shown to actually lower stress levels. A decrease in stress keeps blood pressure lower, another major contributing factor to heart health. So, the next time your feline curls up on your chest and starts purring, don’t push your furry friend away, embrace it knowing it's good for your heart.

And What About Dogs?

Well dogs can help you be more active with the regular walks and playtime. Regular physical activities as we all know improves heart health conditions. Your relationship with your dog may uplift your mood and lower the levels of stress, thus giving an additional boost to maintaining heart health. This is positive for both: dogs receive their required amount of exercise while you achieve a heart-friendly routine.

So consider adding a pet to your life. Not only do pets provide companionship; they also help you to step towards good heart health. Whether the soothing sound of a purring cat or an active lifestyle brought in by your dog, pets feature in all aspects of our life.

Can’t add a pet to your life, well you can still benefit. Shelters are always looking for volunteers to walk the dogs, and rescues are always looking for foster to take in cats. You get all the benefits without the obligations. It’s a win win situation for both you and the pet.

How to Benefit from Your Cat's Purr

1. Hold Them Close

Perhaps the simplest method of benefiting from your cat's purring is to hold them in your arms or have them sit on your lap. Their purring vibrations will transfer from their body onto yours, causing a soothing effect. This can be especially effective for stress relief and anxiety decrease.

Why it works: The low-frequency vibrations (25-150 Hz) of a cat's purr can calm your nervous system, slow down your heart rate, and reduce stress hormones like cortisol.

2. Let Them Snuggle Near Painful Areas

If you have a specific spot of discomfort (like a sore back or sore shoulder), you can coax your cat to sit near that spot. Cats have a sense when we're unwell and will naturally gravitate towards areas of pain.

Why it works: While the purring vibrations will not heal wounds per se, they will help alleviate pain and inflammation through relaxation and improved blood flow.

3. Create a Calm Environment

Other times, just sitting next to a purring cat can improve your mood. Sit or lie down where you feel comfortable, and have the cat curl up beside you. The vibrating purr of their body with the warmth of their comforting presence can create a sense of calmness and well-being.

How it works: Vibrations and the purring sound may lead to the release of endorphins (your own "feel-good" drugs), which can relieve pain and improve your mood.

4. Use Their Purring for Stress Relief

If you are stressed or overwhelmed, sit quietly with your cat for a while. Gently pet them and listen to and sense the purring of their bodies. It may help calm you down and center you.

Why it works: Studies have shown that playing with cats lowers blood pressure and stress. Their purring also adds to a feeling of security and relaxation. And cats will purr when you play with them. They absolutely need playtime.

What Science Tells Us About Cats and Healing

Although science has no conclusive evidence to support that cats can heal human injuries directly, there is research to indicate that their purring can be therapeutic.

For instance:

The purring frequency of a cat (25-150 Hz) has been associated with enhanced bone density and tissue healing in cats, and it is thought to potentially do the same for humans.

The relaxing purring of a cat can help relieve stress, a known slowdown for healing. When stress is alleviated, your body will have an easier time focusing on healing itself.

Some Tips for Getting the Most Benefit

Patiently wait: Cats are single animals, so let them come to you when they're willing to purr.

Create a relaxed atmosphere: Have you and your cat relax. You can use a pillow or a comfortable blanket to make the session even more relaxing.

Relax and listen: Listen to your cat's purring sound and vibrations. Allow it to relax you and make you feel relaxed.

Last Thought

While you can't actually "put" your cat on you like a heating pad, their purring can still have a significant effect on your health. Whether they're snuggled on your lap, nestled next to you, or just in the general area, their purring can be soothing, stress-reducing, and maybe even make you feel a little better. So the next time your cat starts purring, sit back and bask in the healing energies—it's good for both of you!

And What About Dogs?

A lot of people ask me, so what about dogs? Do they have healing abilities? Of course they do. They may not purr, but they offer other ways of providing healing to their owners.

1. Unconditional Love and Companionship

Dogs are known for their fidelity and wonderful affection. Having a dog around can make one feel more cheerful and less lonely. Their presence during the day can help lower stress, anxiety, and depression levels.

Why this works: Attachment between a dog and an owner releases oxytocin which is known as the love hormone. And Oxytocin in turn triggers feelings of relaxation and contentment.

2. Physical Touch and Affection

Physical touch is highly comforting and relaxing for dogs. They love cuddling, nuzzling, and leaning against their owners.

Why this works: Physical touch releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Petting also lowers your heart rate and blood pressure, so you feel more relaxed.

3. Promoting Exercise and Outdoor Activity

Dogs need exercise and playtime, so they keep their owners active. A stroll through the park or playing fetch is great for your physical and mental health.

Why this works: Exercise releases endorphins which relax tension, and promotes general health. And spending time outside in nature calms the soul and reconnects you to mother nature.

4. Stress Relief and Emotional Support

Dogs are extremely perceptive and sense when you are stressed or depressed. They react by stay close by, providing hugs, or even getting goofy and making you smile.

Why this works: Having a dog can reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and increase serotonin and dopamine, brain chemicals that create feelings of happiness.

5. Service and Therapy Dogs

Trained dogs can be used to assist in healing and aiding people with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities, for example:

Service dogs assist people with disabilities in performing special tasks.

Therapy dogs visit hospitals, schools, and nursing homes to provide comfort and emotional support.

How Dogs Compare to Cats in Terms of Healing

Whereas cats utilize their purring to produce comforting vibrations, dogs utilize their loving nature, loyalty, and capacity for emotional bonding with their owners. Both animals have different methods of healing, yet they provide special kinds of healing:

Cats: Healing through vibrations from purring, peaceful presence, and stress relief.

Dogs: Healing through physical contact, emotional comfort, and promoting activity.

So You May be Asking Yourself? Do All Cats Purr?

1. Domestic Cats

The domestic cat is the champion of purring. Domestic cats will purr when they're happy, calm, or even when stressed or hurt.

2. Small Wild Cats

The majority of small wild cats, including bobcats, cheetahs, and ocelots, purr. These are the closest to domestic cats, with flexible voice boxes allowing them to produce the purring sound.

Cats That Don't Purr (But Roar Instead)

1. Big Cats (Panthera Family)

Lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars can't purr like house cats. But they can roar! Their voice boxes are constructed differently. They possess a special ligament in their throat that enables them to make loud, deep roars, but it keeps them from purring.

2. Snow Leopards

Snow leopards are a bit of an exception. They can't roar, but they don't purr like a house cat either. Instead, they make a unique sound called a "chuff," which is a friendly greeting.

Why Can't All Cats Purr?

Whether or not a cat is able to purr or roar is determined by how a cat's voice box (larynx) and bones in their throat are shaped:

Purring Cats: Purring cats have a rigid hyoid bone (a small, rigid bone in the throat) and a flexible voice box, allowing them to produce the repeated vibrations of a purr.

Roaring Cats: These cats have a more flexible hyoid bone and a special voice box that enables them to roar, but not purr.

Fun Fact: Some Cats Do Both (Kind Of)

Cougars and Cheetahs: These big cats are unique because they can't roar, but they can purr! But their purr is typically louder and deeper than a house cat's purr.

What About Other Animals?

Even though cats are the most renowned animals for purring and purring is claimed to having healing benefits, they are not the only animals that produce vibrations or frequencies with potential healing qualities. Let's examine other animals that display healing vibrations or frequencies:

1. Bees (Buzzing Vibrations)

Bees produce a buzzing sound and vibrations when they fly or work. These vibrations are integral to their communication and pollination process.

Possible Healing Benefits:

Research has indicated that bees' low-frequency vibrations at around 200-300 Hz may have soothing effects on humans.

Beekeeping and exposure to the vicinity of beehives have been reported to decrease stress and enhance mental health.

2. Dolphins (Sonar and Vocalizations)

Dolphins use sonar (echolocation to find themselves and communicate with one another. Dolphins produce a range of sounds and vibrations, including clicks, whistles, and pulsed calls.

Potential Healing Benefits:

Dolphin-assisted therapy has been used successfully with physically, emotionally, and mentally challenged individuals. The brain is believed to be calmed and stimulated by the sounds and vibrations produced by dolphins. As an ADHD person, I can vouch for that!

Certain scientists are of the opinion that the frequencies of dolphin sounds can cause relaxation and healing, but more research is needed to confirm this.

3. Elephants (Infrasound Rumbles)

Elephants communicate using low-frequency rumbles, some of which are below human hearing (infrasound). These vibrations can travel long distances through the ground.

Potential Healing Benefits:

While not specifically researched as to their healing properties, the low, rumbling sounds of elephants are thought to be grounding and calming for human beings.

Being around elephants in nature parks or sanctuaries has been found to be stress-reducing and to improve emotional well-being.

4. Whales (Songs and Low-Frequency Sounds)

Whales, especially humpback whales, are famous for their low-frequency and complex songs. These sounds travel great distances underwater.

Listen to the songs of Whales. I picked this up on Pixabay and I love it. I listen to it everyday. Thank you Saturn-3-Music

Potential Healing Benefits:

Whale songs are often said to be soothing and meditative. Listening to whale sound has been used in sound therapy to enhance relaxation and reduce anxiety.

It is believed that the low-vibration frequencies in whale songs could resonate with the human body and create a relaxation and calming response.

5. Horses (Movement Vibration)

Horses produce vibrations due to movement, especially running or trotting. These movements can be perceived by riders or those who get close to the horses.

Healing Benefits:

Equine therapy (horse riding) has proven to be useful for physical, emotional, and mental health. The vibrations of a horse's gait can enhance balance, coordination, and muscle strength in riders.

The rhythmic beat of horse riding is also calming and can reduce stress.

Sound Healing with Non-Animal Frequencies

While not directly related to animals, humans have developed sound healing practices using vibrations and frequencies. For example:

Tibetan Singing Bowls: These bowls produce soothing vibrations and tones that are used in meditation and healing practices.

Singing Bowls on YouTube.

Tuning Forks: These tools create specific frequencies that are believed to promote relaxation and balance in the body.

Tuning Forks on YouTube. I love this one.

Final Thought

While cats are unique in their ability to purr and potentially heal through vibrations, other animals and natural phenomena also offer forms of vibrational healing. From the buzzing of bees to the songs of whales, the natural world is full of soothing sounds and frequencies that can benefit our physical and emotional well-being. So, whether it’s a purring cat, a buzzing bee, or a singing whale, there’s no shortage of healing vibrations to explore!

A Personal Story About the Healing Power of Pets

Many years ago, a good friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer. He grew very depressed and ceased doing anything to help his medical situation. His oncologist stressed how important it was that he exercise and be positive if he ever expected to overcome his cancer. The treatments knocked him out so much so that he frequently spent several days continuously in bed. His family was extremely worried. The doctor told him to get out, walk a little, and enjoy the sun, which would not only help him manage the side effects of the treatments, but would also elevate his mood.

One day, his family decided to bring a dog from a shelter and gift it to him. They were hoping the dog would bring some life into his dark days—and that's exactly what happened. The dog got him out of bed-to feed it or to take it for walks. And, well, my friend just started spending more and more time outdoors with his dog, moving more and feeling better. In due course, his cancer went into remission, and he ascribed the companionship and purpose his dog gave him to a big part of his recovery.

I also have a dear friend who runs a cat rescue. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and told me one day, “I’m quitting my job and going home to care for my cats.” Her cancer had been progressing aggressively, but after leaving her job to focus on the rescue, something amazing happened. She also felt that these days spent with her cats brought her a sense of peace and fulfillment, and not long afterward, her cancer slowed down. A few months later, she was in remission.

These stories only reinforce the idea that animals are truly healing creatures. From the soothing hum of a cat to the companionship and routine associated with a dog, our pets have incredible effects on both our physical and emotional health.

A Little About Me and My Mission

I have been rescuing cats now for about 25 years (also other animals as needed). During the time I was rescuing, I was made aware of the unique challenges posed by cats with special needs: disabled, FeLV and FIV positive, feral, senior, or those with serious behavioral issues. I soon realized a significant gap in cat rescues willing to embrace these cats, often deemed “unadoptable.” This realization led me to establish my own cat sanctuary in 2017, dedicated to providing a safe and loving haven for these overlooked felines. I now have 34 cats in my sanctuary. These cats have deemed unadoptable and will remain with me for the entirety of their lives.

Last year I decided it was time to retire as first I have no more room to bring in any more cats and second with inflation, cost of cat food and vet care has gone up significantly making it impossible to welcome any new members into my sanctuary. However I am still on a mission to reduce the amount of cats surrendered every year to shelters. Now, my focus has shifted towards helping cat owners improve their cats’ health and address specific challenges, from managing chronic illnesses like FeLV and FIV to tackling behavioral issues and beyond.

I am also dedicating a large portion of my website to rescues and colony caregivers, hoping I can share some valuable information I have learned over the years. This information is important for those new rescues coming onto the scene and not knowing quite how to navigate in the cat rescue environment. There is so much to learn and learning from someone who has countless experience will give them a heads start.

This is my story and I hope you will be part of my journey.

Wishing you a beautiful day!

Mimi

P.S. Feel free to visit my website

Subscribe now

Hello and welcome!

I decided to start this Substack account to share all my 25 years of experience rescuing cats. I now own my own cat sanctuary, and I coach cat owners on issues they may be facing with their beloved fur babies. I have a lot of interesting topics to share with you and really I need a place to download all this information. So whether you are a cat parent, considering adopting a feline friend, or simply curious about these fascinating creatures, I hope you check in. I am not charging for my work, however if you want to help me feed my 34 cats, you can visit my website and donate via my Amazon Wishlist. With the cost of cat food going up, I welcome any help. Thank you.

Why Now?

Over the years, I’ve seen far too many cats surrendered to shelters for reasons that could have been avoided—behavioral issues, chronic illnesses, or simply a lack of understanding about what makes cats so unique. These situations are really heartbreaking because I know that if these cat owners had the right tools, knowledge, and support, these cats would not have had to go through this traumatic experience. Cats are very attached to their homes and when you sever them away from a familiar place and disrupt their routine, they become disoriented and this is when behavioral problems arise. And with prolonged unresolved behavioral problems, this can escalte into something that in the end is hard to break and can eventually lead to health issues. With the right tools, and knowledge, these cats could have stayed in their loving homes. And this is what makes this so heartbreaking.

This space is my way of changing these unfortunate situations. My goal is to educate cat owners about chronic illnesses and behavioral challenges so fewer cats are surrendered unnecessarily. I’ll be sharing insights from my years of experience, offering practical advice, and diving into fascinating topics that will deepen your bond with your cat.

So A Little About Me

I hold a degree in microbiology and spent five years working in a lab, primarily focused on research for treatments for FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) cats.This extensive experience and knowledge inspired a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of these cats. When I first opened my sanctuary for unwanted cats I focused primarily on saving FeLV cats and although I still have a few in my sanctuary I realized later that many old, disabled, and especially cats with serious behavioral problems also needed a place to call home. I have 34 unwanted cats in my sanctuary, and I do everything I can to provide them a great life.

What do I want to build as a community?

I am hoping that my community will be made up of cat lovers, caregivers, and enthusiasts who are eager to deepen their understanding of our feline friends. Let's come together to share knowledge, stories, and support—maybe you’re navigating your cat’s chronic illness, dealing with behavioral challenges, or simply looking to strengthen the bond with your furry companion, this space could be your support team. And beyond thee chronic illnesses and behavioral problems, we can dive into different cat breeds, cat facts that are not well known and my favorite, the spiritual connections of cats. Together, Let's make a real difference in cats’ lives all over the world and help reduce unnecessary surrenders through education, empathy, and practical advice.

What can you expect next? A favorite subject of mine is " The Healing Power of a Cat’s Purr " I’ll explore the science and magic behind this fascinating phenomenon and how it benefits both cats and humans.

Teddy and Tinsel

Tinsel is totally in love with Teddy! She clings onto him and won't let go, it's quite funny! They're both ginger kitties but not even related. In our small town, we have a lot of ginger cats in the many different cat colonies around the town. Yes we have a major problem here with abandonment. We are actually known as the cat litter box of Canada 😂. Tinsel and Teddy are one year apart in age, and look at the difference in size. Tinsel has issues with her hind limbs. Her siblings all got adopted out, however Tinsel was left behind, and I was asked to take her, because there were no adoption offers for her. Teddy has always had health issues. He was the runt of the litter and he has never been very healthy. He needs lots of love and care.

Tinsel is the small one, and Teddy is the larger one.

Thank you for joining me on this journey.