My kitty of 15 years passed away a few months ago and I thought I'd never climb out of the mourning I was so devastated by.

But I eventually got another cat, and he has helped me immeasurably, in so many ways, as had my previous cat.

Aside from the routine and responsibility, the proximity, cuddles, warmth, affection -going both ways- help to keep me stable. I'm an introvert and suffer from sometimes crippling anxiety and this keeps me in my apartment more than I'd like. I'm venturing out more and more now, but when I'm home I'm never lonely: he's always there and full of love. Lately he's taken to sleeping on my belly: keeps me warm and helps me sleep!