7 Great Reasons Why Cats Make the Best Pets

Photo credit: Yerlin Matu

Are you wondering if you should get a feline for a pet?

Maybe we can help you make up your mind.

Although all pets are adorable, cats are a favorite pet choice for many Americans.  According to the 2021-2022 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 45.3 million US households have a feline as a live-in companion, and with good reason.

For starters, these wonderful furry animals are adorable and cuddly which is why we can’t get enough of those cute cat Insta photos. They are also independent self-groomers making them purrrrfect if you’re looking for a low-maintenance furry friend. Not to mention that they’re fiercely loyal and make wonderful and safe playmates for both children and adults.

Still looking for more reasons to own an adorable cute kitty? Read on.

 

1. Multiple Health Benefits

Photo credit: Pietro Schellino

Did you know that owning a furball is good for your health?

According to a 2009 study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, owning a cat can lower your stress levels. This can further help lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Further, your feline purring has been shown to improve the healing of injured bones, muscles and tendons. The frequency of your furball purring falls between 25 and 140 Hz and studies show that vibrations in the frequency of between 20 and 140 Hz help repair injured and swollen muscles.

Cats are also great stress relievers. Think about it, there is nothing better than coming home to your fuzzy pet after a long stressful day.

Besides, curling next to your snuggle friend or just petting your feline is enough for your body to produce feel-good hormones. And if you didn’t know, even just watching cute YouTube cat videos can help lower stress levels according to one study.

 

2. They Make the Perfect Apartment Pets

Do you live in a small space, or maybe you’re worried that Fido’s barking will be too much for your quiet neighbours?

Well, get a cat!

Cats are quiet and they don’t need to live in big open spaces, unlike large dogs. Besides, you don’t have to take your cat out for regular walks as felines are pretty independent.

Further, if you live in a high-rise apartment you don’t have to worry about taking your kitty outside to pee or relieve herself. And oh, cats have retractable claws meaning no damage to your favorite carpet or sofa.

Using a natural cat litter such as okocat wood clumping litter will ensure your apartment always smells fresh and taking care of the litter box is a breeze. Plus, it's lightweight and easy to carry. 

 

3. Reduced Allergies for Your Kids 

Photo credit: Prince Abid

Exposing your child to a cat from an early age can help keep allergies at bay in their later years.

According to Science Daily, a study published by the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology suggests that early exposure to cats can reduce the risk of asthma and allergic symptoms in children.

The good thing is that this early exposure does not only have a protective effect on pet allergies but other allergens as well.

 

4. Cats Are Lifelong Companions

Cats make wonderful companions. They are loyal and offer unconditional love to their owners. Cats are also clean which means they make the perfect cuddle buddies if you’re feeling lonely.

Also, cats have a long life span as their average life expectancy is between 10 and 15 years. Some domestic cats live up to 20 years when they’re well-taken care of. So, if you’re worried about losing your pet after a few years, you can rest easy knowing your furball may live to his early twenties.

 

5. Cats Teach Kids Useful Life Lessons 

In addition to helping improve your little one’s immune system, cats also have lots to offer your kid.

Cats are wonderful playmates as they’re gentle and patient. During play, children can learn that they need to have respectful etiquette when it comes to playing with a feline. And if you’re worried about clawing and biting when it comes to your cat and child’s play, consider adopting a senior furball or a calmer cat breed such as Ragdoll, Persian, Birman, or a British Shorthair.

Having a cat as a pet can also teach your little one to be responsible, especially if you give them the responsibility of taking care of their pet’s litter, water, and food needs.

 

6. They Are Low Maintenance

Compared to Fido, your pussy in boots is low maintenance. You don’t have to take her for multiple walks a day. Besides, cats love to clean themselves meaning you’ll only need to take them to the groomers occasionally.

Cats also don’t need lots of attention. So long as you have your kitty food and litter box ready, your feline will be quite happy to be left alone.

Overall, as noted by ASPCA compared to dogs, cats are low maintenance not only in terms of time but also when it comes to food, grooming costs, routine medical costs, treats, and the number of toys they require.

 

7. They Keep Pests Away From Your Home

 

Cats are one of the most efficient natural pest control animals.

Cats are natural predators, and they love to hunt. They prey on bugs, mice, rats and other rodents. In addition to feeding on these pests, they also deter them from invading your home as they often mark their territories with their scent.

Cats are so efficient at keeping rodents at bay that several US organisations including the Lodi Animal Shelter in California and the Voice for the Animals Foundation have started cat programs. These programs encourage the adoption of barn and feral cats to help control rodents and other pests on the cat owners’ properties.

There you have it, seven good reasons why cats make the best pets! Hopefully, you’re now ready to adopt an adorable furball to be your lifelong companion.