Cat owners have known this for years but the latest research suggests that cats can be good for your health (just as long as they’re not running between your legs to trip you at the top of the stairs). One study suggests that cats can substitute for people as part of your social network.

Of course, cats can only replace people if the people you know also defecate in a litter box, but the point is that cats can make people feel less lonely and happier, especially if you don’t have to hang around people related to you. So get a cat. It’s good for you.

To learn more about why cats may be good for you, click here.