Pets, may they be dogs or cats, make humans both happy and healthy.
Cats though need less maintenance, space and even food, many cat lovers said.
Here are “10 Reasons Why Cats Make Great Pets” from Michele C. Hollow of Pet News and Views posted in familycircle.com
1. Bad Rap
Andrea Arden, an Animal Planet pet expert and pet trainer, noted that cats are often not given the credit they deserve. “They are often seen as solitary, aloof creatures," she said.
Hollow though said that Cats can actually “thrive in a family with children, and can even learn to play games that are traditionally associated with dogs, such as fetch.”
2. Playful and Agile
I have seen cats play. They love to play with each other and with humans. Give them a carton and they will scratch at it in a playful mood, and not just to groom their nails. They can play with anything: leaves, slippers, and mats. They are very creative and resourceful.
“Cats love to play. They are quite acrobatic too — especially when you take out a toy fishing pole or a cat dancer toy. They will leap, run, and pounce on the toy, which is great fun to watch, “ Hollow said.
3. Pleasing Purrs
Hollow noted: “Ever listen to a cat purr? It is one of the most delightful sounds. Children often squeal when they hear it.”
Our cats rub against our legs and purr. They are quite delightful to watch and to listen to.
4. Cuddle Time
“Cats love to be pet, held, and cuddled. Plus, they are extremely loyal. Give them a bit of attention, and you'll get a lot of love in return,” Hollow said.
If trained well, kittens grow up into cats who will also lie on their belly and allow you to rub them. They can also be taught to keep their claws in when they play with you. We just tell the kittens, “ No claws. That will hurt us. You don’t want to hurt us, do you?”
They love to be pet indeed and will even close their eyes in seemingly pure contentment and delight.
5. Litter-Box Trained
Hollow noted that “Most cats are litter-box trained. You won't have to walk them on cold, rainy days. They do prefer doing their business in a clean box, so keeping the box tidy is a must.”
6. Alone Time
Cats love an alone time. “You can leave a cat home alone for a few hours, since they don't need to be walked. However, they do need attention, love, and care. If you're going away for the weekend or longer, it's important to hire a pet sitter,” Hollow said.
7. Easy Care
“Cats don't require bathing. They are meticulous about grooming themselves. If you have a long-haired cat, daily brushing is essential,” Hollow noted.
But some cats who have developed some skin problems may need a bath every week. Please ask your vet about this.
8. Cats Are Content
Cats are easy to please. Hollow said: “Cats don't require constant attention. They are happy just being near you. They love to be pet, brushed, and fed. Yet you won't have to dote on them all day.”
9. Cats Are Trainable
Cats are easy to train. Like dogs, you just have to repeat the commands and it helps if you give them a treat after they have done the task or what you want until they get used to the command.
“You can teach a cat to come when called, to not scratch the furniture, and to retrieve a toy. Just like clicker training with dogs, you can teach cats with a clicker. It's a good idea to purchase a cat training video or book that you can watch or read together as a family before you get your cat,” Hollow said.
10. Consider Two Cats
It will be truly nice if you can give your cat a companion. “If you have an active lifestyle, work long hours, or have the kids in after-school programs, then two cats are better than one. They easily entertain each other. (But) You will still have to devote time to caring, playing, feeding, and brushing them, “ Hiollow said.