I don't have any cats, but I have two dogs. One is an 8 yr old Shi Tzu who we call the therapy dog. She weighs 9 pounds and will climb on the lap of anyone who is feeling down. I bring sponsees to the house and plunk her on their lap. Amazing how quickly a person cheers up. She rolls over on her back to have her tummy rubbed and then paws your hand if you stop. It certainly takes your mind off your problems.
My other dog is a one year old Cairn Terrier. While he may not be a therapy dog, he is certainly entertaining. He is a little goof-ball always keeps us laughing.
I am grateful that they are around for us and others.