Welcome a Feline Into Your Family And Provide a Home for a Devoted Companion

During the spring and summer, animal shelters and rescue groups are strained with the influx of kittens that are in need of loving homes. Nowhere is this more apparent than in New York City, where animal welfare groups like Bideawee are taking in both kittens and pregnant mothers and have been experiencing difficulty finding homes for these wonderful animals.   Unfortunately, as the season wears on, kittens start to grow up and become less desirable to the public, which could mean that they spend much of their young lives in a New York animal shelter. If you decide to adopt a cat or kitten from a shelter, you won't only be improving the animal's life, but your own as well.  Below are only a few of the reported benefits that come with sharing your life with a feline companion. 1. Stress reliever. According to the American Time Use Survey conducted in 2010, most employed Americans spend about 7.5 hours working during a normal weekday. After putting in those hours, it can be quite refreshing to come home to a furry friend who will be happy to see you! Spending time with your pet can help reduce anxiety, stress and let you unwind after a long day. 2. Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. The calming effects of becoming a cat parent may actually limit your risk of developing a heart condition. A University of Minnesota study found that cat parents were 30 to 40 percent less likely to die from a cardiovascular disease, as opposed to those who did not care for a cat. 3. Childhood benefits. According to recent health studies from the National Institute of Health, caring for a pet may hold benefits for children. Pets are a source of comfort, and many child development professionals have found that children find solace in being able to talk with an animal rather than an adult. Cat caretaking can also reduce your child's chances of long-term allergies and asthma, according to recent studies. Bideawee Adoption Centers have a variety of kittens and cats that are in need of loving homes & they'll be celebrating FREE Feline Days in mid-August.  From August 15th ? August 31st  all felines will be free to approved adopters.  To bring the best of Bideawee into your life for free, call 866-262-8133 or visit [www.bideawee.org](http://www.bideawee.org/).