20 Sweet Reasons Why Cats Are The Best Pet You Can Have
We don't give these sweet pets enough credit.
There’s no question that cats are a popular choice for pets — in fact, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, about 25 percent of U.S. households have these cute, furry felines as a live-in friend. Sure, they're mischievous at times, and they might love to lay across your keyboard while you're working or enjoy smacking things off your desk for no particular reason, but if you ask us, that's entirely part of their charm — and a big reason why we love them so much.
Not only are they adorable (because seriously, they're so cute), they're also fiercely independent, curious, and loyal — and can make amazing lifelong companions for you or your family. Here are 15 reasons why cats make the absolute best pets. (P.S. If you're thinking of adopting a new kitty, be sure to check out our list of the cutest cat names).
Say Goodbye to Allergies
Well, not for you. But if you have kids, or have kids on the way, having a pet at a young age can lower their risk of getting allergies. Not only to pet hair, but according to the National Institute of Health, pet exposure at a young age can also prevent "other types of common allergies, such as allergy to dust mites, ragweed, and grass."
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They'll Keep Your House Pest-Free
Don't be fooled by all the fluff and fur, cats are natural predators. Despite being domesticated, they still have that hunter instinct — and will keep your home free of mice.
RELATED: 10 Large Cat Breeds That Would Be the Purr-fect Addition to Your Home
They'll Make You Smarter
No, seriously. In a study of self-proclaimed dog-lovers versus cat-lovers done at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, cat owners scored higher on intelligence than dog owners did.
They Can Hear and Smell — While They're Sleeping
Cats do sleep a lot (more on that later), but even when they're snoozing, they still stay super alert. They're actively hearing and smelling things while asleep, so that they're able to pounce on a pest at a moment's notice.
They're Very Photogenic
Need we say more? With their big, expressive eyes, cats can turn out to be pretty hilarious in photos.
Cats Can Help Kids Learn Social Skills
Cats can have a bunch of positive effects on children. According to Care.com, owning a cat can teach kids social skills and help them cope with traumatic situations.
They’re the Ideal Pet for Apartments
Plenty of apartments allow cats because they’re quiet, so they are less likely to wake the neighbors up when someone rings your doorbell.
They Often Cost Less to Care for Than a Dog
According to the ASPCA, cats won’t break the bank nearly as much as medium or large dogs because they require much less food, fewer toys, and fewer trips to the groomer.
You Know They Are Low Maintenance
Unlike our friend Fido, Whiskers doesn't require multiple walks a day. Older cats can also be left alone for a day or two if they have access to their food, water, and litter box. Of course, make sure you speak with your veterinarian beforehand.
They Have Playful Moods
Ever wonder why cats love to play? Since they don't hunt for their food, it's believed kitties have an abundance of energy stored up and release it through playtime.
They’re Clearly the Most Intelligent House Pet
Just kidding ... but seriously, cats are a lot smarter than people make them out to be. According to Animal Planet, cats are constantly learning and have an excellent memory.
They Don't Make You Feel Bad When You Leave Them
When you head off to work and need to leave your pet behind, you may start to feel a little guilty. But it might be easier with a cat who loves having the house to themselves. Cats will sleep whenever they’re bored — about 15 hours a day.
They Groom Themselves
Sure, you'll still have to take your feline to the groomers every once in a while, but cats generally take care of themselves in that department, saving you time and energy.
RELATED: 7 Best Vacuums to Clean Up Every Last Speck of Pet Hair
They’re (Supposedly) Better for the Environment
Since cats don’t eat nearly as much meat as dogs do, it results in a much smaller carbon footprint. While definitely smaller, both animals have carbon footprints equivalent to cars, according to some sustainability authors.
They’re Efficient Drinkers Because They're Sophisticated Beings
A study found that cats drink water "gracefully," so if you have misophonia a.k.a. you hate the sound of chewing (and/or drinking), you may want to get a cat.
They’re Actually Good for Your Health
Research shows cats can help lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of dying from a heart attack. It's amazing knowing that one of these cuties is keeping you healthy.
RELATED: 10 Totally Fascinating Facts About Tortoiseshell Cats
People Find Their Purrs Therapeutic
Not only is purring absolutely adorable, but it can also be a soothing sound for humans. In fact, there are numerous online videos of cats just purring to help people fall asleep.
They Were Once Worshipped by Egyptians
Egyptian history shows that cats worked hard to be welcomed into homes. But people eventually noticed that the animals resembled Bast, the Ancient Egyptian goddess of warfare, and they started to be held in high regard.
They Can Live for a Long Time
There are few things in life more heartbreaking than losing a pet, which is why knowing that the average domestic cat has an average lifespan of about 15 years is quite comforting.
They're Just Adorable
We don't really have to say this, but in case you need convincing, cats are seriously cute.
RELATED: 44 Black Cat Names That Are Just as Adorable as Your New Kitty
Amina is a product review writer and editor who worked as an editorial assistant in the Good Housekeeping Institute from 2018 to 2020, writing original content based on GH Lab experts' product testing and analysis. Amina graduated from Montclair State University with a B.A. in communication studies and journalism.
Selena is the entertainment and news editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers the latest on TV, movies and celebrities. In addition to writing and editing entertainment news, she also spotlights the Hispanic and Latinx community through her work. She is a graduate of CUNY Hunter College with a B.A. in journalism and creative writing.
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