When I was housesitting with for my grandparents, their cat (which hates strangers) came up to me and started cuddling with me. I felt a warmness that I hadn't felt in years, I had gone so long without physical contact with people, namely hugs. I'd let it snuggle with me for hours. A lot of the anger and cruelty that had been building up in me for years began to dissapate. It felt impossible to be angry or violent while this cat was cuddling up to me. I used to not understand why people liked pets, but I get it now, as there's an emotional attachment. They're an excellent cope. My grandma made me promise to take care of her cat when she passes away.