@haleigh1493 and @cb772 Welcome to Mayo Connect, to both of you! I'm glad you stepped into this conversation about the value of animals. Sometimes we forget how much we rely on the regular patterns that our furred/feathered/finned friends bring into our life. As a fellow depression and anxiety patient, I have found that our cat is a never-ending source of comfort for me. The first two years we had her she completely ignored anybody's lap, and slept whereever. Since December of last year she has climbed on my lap at least once a day and curls up to sleep. The simple act of petting her and supporting her calms me down tremendously. Her soft fur and complete trust is something that really suits me. My husband has told me that he can figure where she is by knowing where I am in the house!