Emotional support animals (ESA) serve as pets rather than working animals. However, unlike regular pets, they provide emotional support and comfort to people with emotional and mental conditions, helping them to function normally in their daily lives. Having an ESA has a lot of benefits. They can accompany you, help elevate your mood, and reciprocate your love and care.

While dogs are commonly used as ESAs, cats are also highly capable of providing emotional support and bond to their owners. This is because they have a naturally calming presence that helps reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and alleviate other mental problems. Furthermore, they’re clean, quiet, and non-invasive.

Are you interested in having a cat as an emotional support pet? We’ve listed the best cat breeds that can be good options below.

1. Persian

Persian cats are a classic favorite emotional support animal. This kind of breed is quiet, sweet, and relaxed. They’re into giving love and affection to their owners and are content with sharing cuddles all day as these cats don’t need a lot of activities.

2. Ragdoll

If you’re looking for a large type of cat that’s very affectionate and can be of help for your emotional disability, the Ragdoll is the one for you. They’re loving, mild-mannered, and are known to be “puppy cats” because of their dog-like personalities. They love being petted, snuggled, and cuddled all the time. Fun fact: Ragdolls are gentle, can learn tricks and are good around kids, making them a great ESA.

3. American Bobtail

This cat breed is playful, active, and wants to cuddle — perfect for those who need spirit-lifting. Although they have soft voices and are not vocal, they’re very expressive cats. If you’re looking for an ESA, American Bobtails can be an option.

4. Manx

Manx are smart, gentle, and playful cats. They’re easy to please, love playing fetch, and can converse with their owners. These cats choose their favorite human. In other words, you can have their full attention, love, and loyalty all in one — which is perfect for an ESA.

5. Russian Blue

The Russian blue is a generally quiet, intelligent, and empathetic cat. For introverts, this is a suitable ESA since it’s less demanding. They’re well-mannered and attentive breeds. As owners, you can count on them to be affectionate. While the Russian Blue prefers owners to offer its company, this cat tends to be distant to visitors.

6. Siamese

A cat who’s full of personality — loving, loyal, curious, energetic, and playful — can be great for an ESA. The Siamese is sometimes called “the dog of the cat world” because of its dog-like characteristics. Siamese cats don’t mind playing and going for walks as your companion. And while this cat can be very vocal and demanding at times, overall, it’s perfect for emotional support and comfort.

Conclusion

Like any other domesticated animal, cats are also a good option for an ESA. They can be loyal, affectionate, and playful at the same time. However, keep in mind that cats can sometimes be selective. Thus, earning their love through your petting, healthy treats, and other forms of care will go a long way.

Moreover, cats form the same bond similar to the one you experience with dogs. Whenever you need support, comfort, and companionship for your emotional struggles, these six cat breeds will greatly help.

Now, picture yourself snuggling with one of these adorable cats who love you, and feel your anxiety slowly go away.

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below.