WITH Valentines Day just around the corner, why not find your purr-fect partner with a cat from the Worcester & District branch of Cats Protection?

A recent study, carried out for the UK’s largest cat charity, showed that owning a cat can have a positive effect on those feeling downhearted, miserable and tense at this time of year.

The research was carried out over five years and explored the psychological stress suffered by cat owners and non-cat owners during January and February.

Feelings of being miserable and downhearted were 28% greater in non-cat owners while feeling tense or unable to relax was 34% greater in non-cat owners.

Psychologist Dr June McNicholas, who conducted the research, explained: “Pets can provide many of the functions of supportive human relationships, acting as valuable providers of social support during times of anxiety or stress.”

Lynn Glaze, branch co-ordinator, added: “There are many reasons why cats can help. They are not judgemental and they have modest needs which can provide owners with a sense of purpose and they are also great fun to play or interact with.”

One such cat who needs a lot of love is Amber, who is between seven and eight years old and was found as stray in poor condition. She has a sensitive stomach and is currently on a prescription diet food.

Mrs Glaze said: "Amber is doing well on the food and the vet thinks that once she is settled she should gradually be introduced back on to 'normal' cat food. She is very friendly but needs a reasonably quiet home."

If you want to bring some love into your life and do something really special this Valentines Day, please consider offering Amber a loving new home. Call 01905 820348 or visit worcestercats.org.uk.