Cat Chow: Cats As Therapy Project
For over 60 years, Purina Cat Chow has done more than feed cats—we’ve helped families experience the joy, companionship, and emotional bond that only a cat can bring. Now, through the Cats As Therapy Project, we’re expanding that impact—bringing the healing presence of therapy cats to the people who need it most.
When We Nourish Cats, We Support People, Too
From curious kittens to active adults to cuddle-loving seniors, we’ve nourished cats through every stage of life. And along the way, we’ve witnessed something extraordinary: the quiet comfort cats bring to people’s emotional well-being.
A gentle head butt after a long day, a soft purr during anxious moments, a presence that simply says, “You’re not alone”—these small acts truly enrich lives and make a big difference.
That power of connection is what inspired the Cats As Therapy Project: an initiative that brings more people closer to the calm, companionship, and emotional support that only a cat can offer.
Data Confirms What Cat Lovers Already Know
Cats do more than just cuddle—they reduce stress, lift spirits, and bring comfort in the moments it’s needed most.*
Lower Stress
Cat owners often have lower stress levels than non-pet owners.
Improved Well-Being
86% of cat owners say their cat has improved their mental well-being.
Reduced Loneliness
Cat companionship lowers social isolation and fosters connection.
A Purrfect Partnership
Purina Cat Chow has teamed up with Pet Partners—a leader in animal-assisted therapy—to bring the Cats As Therapy Project to life. Together, we’re expanding the number of therapy cat teams across the country to help reduce stress, ease loneliness, and support mental health for people of all ages. Because when cats and people connect, they nourish a lifetime of well-being!
How Are We Making Therapy Cats More Accessible?
Since 2020, Purina Cat Chow has been committed to making therapy cats more accessible for those in need by:
Donating over $150,000 to Pet Partners to support the recruitment and training of therapy cat teams.
Funding free therapy cat sessions that connect at-risk populations with these cats’ remarkable healing powers.
Raising awareness of the emotional and physical benefits therapy cats can provide.
Help Us Share the Healing Power of Therapy Cats
Turn Your Cat’s Cuddles into Comfort
Do you have a cat who’s sociable, easygoing, and loves new experiences? Join the Cats As Therapy Project and become a registered therapy cat team—bringing comfort to those who need it most.
Donate to Support Therapy Cats
Can’t share your special cat with others? You can still make a difference. Your donation to the Cats As Therapy Project helps expand access to the healing presence of therapy cats.
Bring Cat Therapy Home with HAPPi
Download the myPurina app to unlock HAPPi—an exclusive, free program designed to help you bond with your cat and boost happiness in just minutes a day.
*Sources: American Psychiatric Association | American Psychological Association (APA) | Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI)