Cats are wonderful creatures that, for some reason, have a bad reputation. As a cat owner, I know the struggle of having to explain to people that my cat is, in fact, awesome and not made of pure evil. Here are 11 reasons that cats are amazing pets:

1. They clean themselves.

Who has time to wash their pet all the time? Not me! Cats clean themselves daily, so there is no need to worry about doing that yourself.

2. They actually do show affection.

People think that cats do not show any love, but when they are connected with a person they show tons of affection. Rubbing, purring, and meowing are all forms of love.

3. They think they're humans.

Cats do not understand that they are cats, because they are around humans so often. If they have owners, they think that they are who you are.

4. They are easy to take care of.

You do not have to worry about if your cat is going to be OK if you leave for the day, or even for a vacation. There are self-feeding bowls, and they use the bathroom indoors. So, they are the perfect pet.

5. They have funny personalities.

If you really get to know a cat, you know that they have personalities. Watching a cat play, or be curious, is a really funny pastime.

6. They are prettier than people, usually.

Cats are beautiful creatures. As pictured, some cats are even way prettier than most humans. This isn't fair.

7. They love boxes.

...or any container really. Cats love to be inside of things, and boxes tend to be the favorite.

8. They can squeeze into any shape.

Cats can always fit where they want to. Whether it be a box, a vase, the sink, anywhere. If they fit, they sit.

9. They are divas.

This may be seen as a negative, but I love it. My cat is so sassy (and so am I). So, we really mesh well together. She believes that she is the most important thing around, and I treat her as such.

10. They won't let you do anything alone.

If you have a cat, and want alone time -- good luck. While some cats do hide all day, many domesticated ones do not leave your side (especially if you are doing something important). In their eyes, nothing could be more important than paying attention to them.

11. They are your child, basically.

Cat owners treat their cats like royalty. I don't know about you, but I treat my cat like she is my child. They really are amazing pets.