Why do we love cats so much?
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Have you ever wondered why we love cats so much? The other day, I was laying on the couch with Shadow. She is all black, and easily the softest of our 3 cats. As I lay there I began to wonder, “what it is it that causes us to feel so much love for these furry little animals?”, aside from them being so soft . There is actually some pretty fascinating neurobiology behind it. We have all been there: you’re busy, stressed, or rushing out the door, and then you experience it. Your cat is curled into a tiny ball, or perhaps squeezed into a cardboard box that is clearly three sizes too small, or it crawls onto your lap with those soft eyes. In that moment, everything softens. But why? Is it because they’re cute, or is there something deeper happening under the surface? Well, it goes much deeper. The following are 3 of the reasons:
1. The “Love Hormone” Connection
When you pet a cat, your brain releases oxytocin, often called the “cuddle chemical” or “bonding hormone”. Research shows that even just a few minutes of interaction with a feline friend lowers cortisol (stress) levels and increases feelings of trust and stability. It’s a biological feedback loop: they purr, you relax, and the bond strengthens.
2. The Power of the Purr
A cat’s purr isn’t just a sound; it’s a vibration. Cats purr at a frequency between 25 and 150 Hertz. In medical communities, these specific frequencies are known to improve bone density and promote the healing of tendons and muscles. When your cat sits on your lap and starts that rhythmic engine, they aren't just being sweet, they’re literally helping you heal.
3. The “Baby Schema” Effect
Evolutionary biologists point to something called Kindchenschema (baby schema). Cats have large eyes, small noses, and round faces—features that mimic human infants. This triggers an ancient, hardwired caretaking response in our brains. We are biologically designed to want to protect and love them.
At Cat-in-a-Box, our love for felines isn’t just about the bond we have with our furry friends. It’s about connection. Not just connection to our cats; connection to each other. Wearing your Cat-in-a-Box shirt will help you connect with other cat lovers!