Introduction
Cats are often thought of as independent creatures that don’t need much attention. But the truth is, they make great pets for people of all ages. Here are five reasons why cats make the best pets:
1. They’re independent.
Cats are independent animals that don’t require a lot of attention. This means they’re great for busy people who can’t always be around to give them the attention they need. Cats appear to be less distressed when separated from their owners than dogs.
A team of animal behavior researchers at the University of Lincoln, UK, who performed the study, discovered that “although dogs regard their owners as a secure foundation, the connection between people and their feline pals appear to be completely different.”
In other words, although dogs depend on people for a sense of security and safety, cats can manage themselves pretty well.
Domestic cats are now more popular than dogs in Europe, and many people think they make a good pet for those who are away from home for lengthy periods of time.
2. They’re low-maintenance.
Cats are low-maintenance pets that are easy to care for. They don’t need to be taken for walks, and they can use a litter box instead of going outside.
Cats also groom themselves, so you don’t have to worry about giving them baths. Although you do need to provide them with food, water, and a litter box, cats don’t require as much care as dogs.
3. They’re great with kids.
Cats are often thought of as aloof creatures, but they can actually be great with kids. They’re patient and tolerant, and they can put up with a lot of petting and cuddling.
Many cats enjoy being around kids and will even play with them. Just be sure to teach your children how to pet a cat gently so they don’t hurt them.
4. They’re clean animals.
Cats are known for being clean animals that groom themselves regularly. This means they don’t typically track in dirt and mud like dogs do.
Cats also use a litter box, so you don’t have to worry about them making a mess in your house.
5. They have unique personalities.
Everyone who has ever known more than one cat can attest to the fact that each feline has her own distinct character. Cat behaviorists have been trying to figure out how to classify feline characters in order to place them in harmonious human-cat households. However, a team of researchers in Australia and New Zealand took a different tack. They reasoned that if we can reliably evaluate our cats’ personalities, we can use that information to improve their living conditions.
They concluded that the 52 characteristics may be reduced to five distinct feline temperaments. Individual cats had a range of characteristics throughout the personality spectrum.
- These felines exhibited increased levels of neuroticism, as measured by characteristics like shyness, insecurity, anxiety, dread of humans, and suspicion.
- Characteristics of impulsiveness include acting without thinking and being easily distracted.
- Characteristics of those who are more extroverted include those who are:
- Friendly, loving, compassionate, and fun are all characteristics that people find appealing.
- Behaviors indicative of dominance include bullying, aggression toward other cats, and jealousy.
Each cat has its own unique personality, which is one of the things that makes them such great pets. They can be playful, affectionate, independent, or even a little aloof.