According to the Purina Cat Chow national study, breast cancer patients that own a cat report that their relationship with their cat has played an important role in their treatment and recovery: 73 percent said their cats knew they were sick and needed their support while undergoing treatment; 68 percent of survivors conveyed they found comfort from their cat during their treatment and 82 percent felt that their cats were there to greet them when they came home from treatment.

These findings are echoed by Missy Fish, a two-time breast cancer survivor who describes her cats Phoebe and Jack as, ???the perfect companions when I needed them most.??? She also notes, ???The relationships between owners and cats are powerful.???

This marks the second year Purina Cat Chow is supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the global leader of the breast cancer movement. In 2009, Purina Cat Chow will donate more than $200,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure and will encourage consumers to help add to the total donation by uploading photos of support or actively participating in the Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign activities throughout National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Laciny adds, ???The Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign gives consumers the opportunity to join us in showing their support and recognizes the strong emotional connection between owners and their cats.???

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