I received two Maine Coon kittens for my 69th birthday, one of the most precious gifts I have ever received. I have my spouse, Diane, to thank for that.

It’s not about a Velcro cat on your chest ever time you lounge on the coach. Sometimes that happens, but Maine Coons can be independent and just lie near you, as a dog would. You wouldn’t want a dog, even a small one like a Beagle, to lay on your chest. Maine Coons are large cats, and while you might wish for that while they are kittens, you might question that when they weigh 20 or more pounds.

There is a distinct joy in being cat guardians. Here are some of the benefits, reprinted from “10 Scientific Benefits of Being a Cat Owner”:

THEY’LL HELP YOU COPE

YOU’LL HAVE A HEALTHIER HEART.

Cats in particular lower your stress level—possibly since they don’t require as much effort as dogs—and lower the amount of anxiety in your life.

YOU’LL SLEEP BETTER

Cats will purr you to sleep and conjure their magic on your chest with kitten pumps, otherwise known as “making biscuits”:

The sad fact is more than 70 million cats are feral, having no owners or guardians. Their lifespans are short because of cars, predators and starvation.

If you want a cat or kitten, go to your local animal shelter or check Pet Finder for your area. You can pay thousands of dollars for a pedigree Maine Coon or other desired breed. But you also are likely to find them in shelters, too.

Stay healthy. Be loved. Get a cat or kitten.