#United States #New York City #mental health #Purina Cat Chow #Therapy Cat

Purina Cat Chow Launches Therapy Cat Program in NYC

In recognition of World Mental Health Day on October 10th, Purina Cat Chow is introducing the "Cats as Therapy Project". This initiative is focused on showcasing the positive effects of cats on mental health. With mental health challenges affecting millions, particularly among Gen Z, this program aims to provide relief by creating moments of calm through feline companionship.

The campaign features the "Therapod," a mobile wellness pod that allows college students in New York City to have 10-minute interactions with therapy cats, specifically trained by Pet Partners. These brief sessions are designed to foster relaxation and promote mental well-being, especially as studies indicate that spending just ten minutes petting a cat can significantly reduce cortisol levels - a stress hormone.

From October 8th to 10th, the Therapod will travel to several college campuses across NYC, providing an opportunity for students to take a break from their busy, connected lives dominated by screens and social media pressures. The specific locations and times are:

• - October 8: High Line Gansevoort Plaza (1 PM - 5 PM ET)
• - October 9: Near NYU, Washington Square East (10 AM - 4 PM ET)
• - October 10: Near Fordham University, W 60th St (10 AM - 4 PM ET)

Students are encouraged to reserve their spots in advance through a dedicated link, with limited on-site appointments available on a first-come, first-served basis. Participation requires a valid student ID, and for a unique twist, attendees must temporarily surrender their phones to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

The initiative responds to the growing mental health crisis among young Americans, particularly the struggles of Gen Z in managing screen fatigue and emotional burnout. A startling statistic finds that 83% of this generation believes their relationship with their devices is unhealthy, adversely affecting their mental health and overall quality of life.

Dr. Judith Joseph, a board-certified psychiatrist, emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues, stating that small, mindful moments with therapy animals can significantly bolster emotional health and restore balance in stressed young adults.

Adding to these sentiments, Dr. Annie Valuska, a certified applied animal behaviorist at Purina, highlights that cats can thrive in therapy roles due to their natural propensity for gentle interaction, such as resting close to humans and seeking gentle contact, all of which create a serene environment conducive to therapy.

For those outside New York who wish to explore the benefits of feline companionship, the Cats as Therapy Project is accessible online at Cat Chow's dedicated webpage. This project emphasizes Cat Chow's commitment to mental health and the well-being of both pets and their owners.

Purina Cat Chow has over 60 years of experience in providing nutrition tailored to meet cats' needs and preferences. As part of Nestlé Purina PetCare, they aim to enrich the lives of pets and their human companions. More information about the Cat Chow products and the Cats as Therapy Project can be found at their official website.

Purina Pet Partners, the campaign's partner, is renowned for its approach to promoting the mental health benefits of animal-assisted interventions. Since 1977, they have been at the forefront of utilizing various animal-driven therapies to aid recovery in many demographics, including students, veterans, and seniors. Their official standards ensure safety and efficacy in delivering therapeutic experiences around the country.

The intersection of therapy animals and mental wellness is clearer than ever, with initiatives like Purina's project showcasing the unique healing properties of our feline friends. Through community engagement and awareness, such efforts are crucial as we strive for better mental health awareness in our increasingly hectic lives.