Fur and Comfort

The cat curled against her side, soft fur warming her lap. Research shows that spending time with companion animals can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood (Beetz et al. 234).

Pet interaction also enhances feelings of social support, which can decrease loneliness and strengthen emotional resilience (McConnell et al. 236). She ran her fingers along the cat’s back, feeling calmness spread through her chest. In that quiet companionship, both she and the animal shared care, comfort, and a simple, healing connection.

Works Cited (MLA)

Beetz, Andrea, et al. “Psychosocial and Psychophysiological Effects of Human-Animal Interactions: The Possible Role of Oxytocin.” Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 3, 2012, pp. 234.
McConnell, Allen R., et al. “Friends with Benefits: On the Positive Consequences of Pet Ownership.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, vol. 101, no. 6, 2011, pp. 1239–1252.