Cats — creatures of fierceness, boldness and snarky attitudes. 

While many people see them as just cats, there are so many people around the world who see these cats as their support system. 

There are tons of people, more specifically in our nation, that look at their cats and consider them their source of comfort, love, companionship and friendship.

Cats are more than just fluffy fierce little creatures that roam around our apartments. 

To many, including myself, these cats are our emotional support animals.

An emotional support animal, commonly referred to as an ESA, is a pet that is prescribed by a licensed medical professional to a person who is dealing with some sort of mental illness. 

The American Psychiatric Association released its “Healthy Mind Poll” on March 1 which

examined among 2,200 pet owners. 

The study revealed that among the many benefits of having a pet, the most beneficial part of having a pet is the love received from them.

Nearly two-thirds of pet owners say their animals offer companionship, true friendship and unconditional love and support.

These pets aren’t service animals, they are simply just pets.

But these pets provide companionship and help with anxiety, depression and even some phobias.

There is a difference between service animals and emotional support animals.

The Americans With Disabilities Act defines service animals as “animals that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.”

While I wish my cats Elio and Ophelia were trained to help me, they weren’t. 

Rather, the naturalness of their being is what helps me feel sane.

When I was diagnosed with depression, I went through tons of medications but nothing worked for me.

Then, I was introduced to my first cat Feb. 1, and I realized that when I was breaking down and in need of something to calm me down, she was there.

The feeling of my cat purring and the sound of her meow is what helped me.

In fact, Clinton Ruben from Penn State University said the frequency of a cat purring falls between 25 to 140 Hz. This is the frequency at which vibration therapy is set. 

This form of therapy is used to relieve stress and anxiety and help individuals heal.

These emotional support animals need to be recognized — not only for their existence but for their help in comforting our society.

No matter where you are in life, where you come from or who you are, it’s important to recognize when you need help. 

If you’re ever in need of a cuddle or some love, look for your animal because underneath that snarkiness and attitude is an animal that will be there to love you unconditionally.