There's a funny proverb speaking about cats says that: "Cats are a way of showing us that not everything in nature has a function"
But apparently they do. A recent study shows that pet owners have a higher ability to resist allergies as the immune system becomes less reactive to potential allergy triggers.

The common norm is that pets can cause allergies and illnesses to children but a number of studies have found that children exposed to a cat or dog early in life are less likely to develop allergies and asthma. However, even if pets give this positive effect, experts don't recommend running out and buying a furry friend to prevent young children from developing allergies. If a child is already sensitive to pet dander, this will worsen the situation. So you must be sure of your child’s health first.

But what happens when you develop asthma after you already have a pet? "People appear to prefer taking asthma medication rather than getting rid of a beloved pet," says Dr. Cecilie Svanes of the University of Bergen in Norway.

I certainly would!