Why do cats make good pets?
Cat Provide Companionship
A cat not only provides good company, he also imparts a sense of peace and tranquility in a chaotic, stressed world. Research has shown that having a cat can help us relax and recover from illness, as well as keep us alert and lively as we age.
Cats are naturally self-reliant animals, although we need to protect them in urban areas where they are especially vulnerable to passing traffic. Cats are more independent by nature than dogs, but they can prove to be very loyal and rewarding companions, and will ask for little in return except food, shelter and affection.
Cats don't need you for exercise
In general, cats exercise themselves through hunting (if allowed outside) and play. Some owners, whether they live in urban or rural areas, build an enclosed run in their gardens or yards so that their cat can have freedom and fresh air without risking his safety.
Cats clean themselves
In comparison with some other household pets, a cat's daily needs are relatively few - longhaired breeds are an exception to this, as they need daily brushing to prevent coat and skin problems. Cats are usually fastidious about grooming and washing themselves, so bathing is not normally necessary, but a daily brushing will help keep shed hairs in the house to a minimum.
Cats are affordable to Maintain
Cats are inexpensive to keep. Other than food and cat litter on a weekly basis, the only other regular expenses will be parasite treatments as recommended by a vet, annual vaccinations against the diseases cats are susceptible to, a veterinary health check every 12 months, and toys to play with (you will find small scrunched-up balls of paper and ping-pong balls will do the job admirably). Although an optional expense, pet insurance can be a wise investment - should your pet suffer an accident or illness, any necessary veterinary treatment could cost a large amount.
Cats are usually quiet
Cats don't bark and howl, so your neighbors won't be upset on that score, especially important if you live in a highly populated, built-up area. As long as your cat is fed regularly, he has clean, fresh water available to drink, his litter tray is kept clean and he has a safe area in which to exercise and rest, plus some toys to play with, then a cat will be content. If he is sociable and has a warm lap to sit on and a gentle hand to stroke him now and again, he will be a very happy cat, keen to reciprocate his owner's affection. The exception of course, is the roaming Tom, something wanyone who has been kept awake by brawling Tomcats will attest to.
Cats are flexible when it comes to a home.
Cats can live quite happily in most homes. Many town and city dwellers keep their cats entirely indoors without problems. High-rise homes benefit, though, from protective mesh over windows and balconies to prevent cats falling from them accidentally. Compare this with a large or very active dog which will require a large, fenced yard.
All in all , having a cat is much less effort than having a dog for the same rewards.
<< Previous Time to say goodbye to your old Cat | Back to All About Cats | Next >> Why neutering your cat or kitten is a good idea?
