Praying is wishing, It has the same effect. Sometimes it works, sometimes it don't. It gives us comfort, because our brains are wired like that, if we can't get what we want, maybe some authority can give it to us by asking nicely. Expressing it soothes us. It's like screaming HELP! when you fell down a well. It's not aimed at anyone in particular, it's just a cry for anyone or anything to help you, because you're desperate.

Shit, cats do that. Do they also pray to god?

Praying is retarded.