Cat or dog? – That is the question. Ever since they were domesticated, human civilization has been split between those who prefer cats and those who prefer dogs. We think both make wonderful companions, but if you're firmly on "team dog," keep reading. This list of 10 reasons why cats make great pets might just change your mind.
1. Cats are quiet
If noise level is a concern in your living situation, cats are a great pet choice. Even the quietest bark will likely be much louder than the most persistent meowing. Depending on the cat, you might have to worry about other sounds, like things being knocked off surfaces or full-speed zoomies around the house, but overall they're still likely to be quieter.
2. Cats are low-maintenance
Compared to dogs, cats are low-maintenance pets. They don't require formal training, they don't need to be walked multiple times a day, and they even take care of their own hygiene. Of course, long-haired cats will still need regular grooming and brushing, but even that will be a less frequent activity than brushing a long-haired dog.
3. Cats are easy to house-train
One of the biggest challenges dog owners have to get through is house-training a new puppy. Kittens, on the other hand, usually know how to use a litter box as soon as you bring them home. All you have to do is show them where it is, and they'll instinctively use it.
4. Cats are great apartment pets
When it comes to apartment living, cats are often better suited than dogs. Compared to dogs, cats need less floor space and can make better use of vertical space. Even in small apartments, you can make the space comfortable for a cat by adding different vertical levels.
5. Cats cost less to keep
The overall cost of caring for a cat is lower than for a medium or large dog. That's because they need less food, fewer toys, and have lower overall care costs.
Your living situation may affect what kind of pet you can have, but if you're lucky enough to have unlimited options when it comes to animals, we hope these 10 reasons show you why a cat is an ideal companion.
6. Cats are independent
One of the best things about cats is that they're very independent creatures. Unlike dogs, which need a fairly high level of attention every day, cats are perfectly happy having time to themselves. In fact, cats will sleep around 15 hours a day, so you don't have to worry about them getting too bored while you're at work. When you're home, cats are more likely to be satisfied just being in your company, while dogs may demand your undivided attention.
7. Cats have a long lifespan
Every pet owner knows that losing a pet is a truly heartbreaking experience. Fortunately, when it comes to pets, cats have a fairly long lifespan. The average lifespan of a cat is 12 years, but it's not unusual for them to live into their high teens or even early twenties.
8. Cats are good for your health
Research has shown that cats have a calming effect on their owners, from the soothing act of petting to purring, which helps with falling asleep. Cats may even play a role in lowering blood pressure and the risk of heart attack. One 10-year study even showed that cat owners had a 30% lower chance of dying from a heart attack or stroke than people who didn't own cats.
9. Cats may lead to fewer allergies
A study by a national institute of health found that children under one year old who were exposed to a cat were less likely to develop allergies. Interestingly, this wasn't limited to pet allergies, but extended to all types of allergies. It seems that exposure to pets as a young child may protect you not only from pet allergies, but also from other common allergies such as dust mites, ragweed, and grass.
10. Cats keep unwanted pests out of your home
Cats are built to stalk, hunt, and pounce on their prey, which makes them perfect for keeping unwanted pests out of your home – whether that's mice, bugs, or something else. Even just their presence can be enough of a deterrent for rodents, since their scent will keep rodents away from your home.