Are cats ever used for animal-assisted therapy?

Many different kinds of animals are used as partners in animal assisted therapy, from birds and rabbits to llamas and horses. Of course, dogs and cats are at the top of the list. Interacting with loving pets has a wonderful, calming effect on people who are ill or injured, and can help them feel better both physically and emotionally.

Therapy cats can be any size and breed. All that’s required is a calm, gentle personality and an interest in people. To prepare to work with a therapist, each cat must go through a training program, during which it’s taught to sit quietly, tolerate frequent handling by strangers, and stay calm in the face of sudden loud noises and distractions.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

• previous: My elderly neighbor lost her cat - often her only company for days. What can I say to her? Should her cat be replaced?
• next: What are some of the qualities that make pets so therapeutic to people?