If you are reading this, it is most likely you have suffered from the harsh reality of how difficult it is to be in a relationship. Having to constantly weigh the happiness, joy and entertainment you have with your significant other against the sacrifices, finances and compromises it takes to be in said relationship can break even the strongest of couples. Not to mention the hell and heartbreak you are put through if, heaven forbid, the timing is not right, distance is an obstacle, or if a great friendship is on the line. We have all been there, myself included.

About a year and half ago, I was in a little bit of a low in my life after a breakup resulting from a series of life changes, personal tragedies and the normal struggles of the everyday college student. My journey out of that low started the day I made a trip to my neighbor's and decided to adopt an eight-week-old kitten- who was more of a little ball of gray fluff than cat. Ever since that day, I have been labeled the cat lady by my friends and family. Do I care? Not even in the slightest. That little fluffball has changed my life for the better and I would not trade my Tobi for anything. Crazy? Maybe. Cat Lady? Most definitely. But I am as happy as ever. From that last breakup, I have been learning to love myself first and work on finding my passion in writing and photography. It is for that reason I bring you my 21 reasons why a cat is better than a boyfriend, and I hope it brings you all a little laughter and joy to your day. I know it has for me.

1. Cats don’t care if you go shopping.

In fact, they thoroughly support your shopping addictions if it means a sack or box coming back home for them to play in.

2. A cat won’t even say anything about your driving.

As terrified or concerned they may be, they won't be making any complaints to you about hitting the brakes a little too hard or getting too close to the edge.

3. Cats are so much easier to hunt down.

It is completely socially acceptable, encouraged in fact, to have your cats microchipped. There will never be any worrying about where they are hiding. That chip ensures their return if they make a run for it... how many can say that about their man (and if you said you could, I am genuinely concerned)?

4. You can always be on the go in any style.

No need to worry about your choice of transportation being "too feminine" or not "manly" enough. Rather than starting a fight, you can just plop that little fluffball in and go.

5. The sky is the limit on outfits of choice!

So dream away, you will be hearing no voice of rebuttal from them- even if their face says it all.

6. Never photograph alone again.

If you are looking cute one day and need a casual post... there is no better way than grab everyones' attention with a cute and cuddly face. Plus, a cat is so much easier to convince to take a photo. Though... its not like they have much of a say

7. Tell a cat a secret and it will stay a secret.

As shocking or traumatizing as those secrets may be… you never need to worry about him telling his guys. (His guys never count as the "do not tell category"... at least that's the excuse, am I right?)

8. Cats at least attempt to assist with laundry.

Or at the very least, they know where the laundry basket is. And I mean really... how adorable is this?

9. Your sweet treats are all yours, babe!

No having to share your candy or sweet treats or worry about having to hid it away in a sock drawer (just me? ok). If you have a sweet tooth as bad as I do, this one is a major key point.

10. Cats don’t hog your bed or the blankets.

In fact, cats totally enjoy having their own smaller bed and, in turn, you get a peaceful sleep.

11. Cheaper gifts for them, more expensive gifts for you.

You can surprise a cat with gifts and accessories for soooo much cheaper and have a look that is just a million times more adorableness. I mean really, $40 or more compared to $3? Nah, save that money for a new MK or Berks, girl. Treat yo self.

12. No begging them to join your selfies here.

A cat will jump right in and join the picture fun and, again, add that much more cute and cuddly adorable factor that will touch everyone's hearts.

13. Don't want them to go out with friends and stay home with you instead? No problem.

A cat won't even argue. A personal cuddle buddy for you 24/7. They won't even think of you as needy.

14. You can actually get a cat to the doctor without a hassle.

No whining about feeling ill or complaining about your nagging for their need of a check up. Just pack them up and go, whether they like it or not, they will go quietly.

15. Watch whatever Netflix show your heart desires.

No fighting over the remote or who chose the movie last time here.

16. No dreading of "the question" on holidays.

Relatives who used to ask "so when will you get a boyfriend" or even worse, "How is *insert crush's name here*?", will now just ask how your cat is. Or if that fails, showing off your cute stash of your cat's photos and videos will always be a crowd pleaser. Distraction method is a go. Plus, you always have someone to take photos with during the holidays.

17. The cuteness of their sleepy face is a serious heart-melter.

Enough said.

18. If you want to be walked to class, you get walked to class.

Although... a leash may be required (again...socially acceptable in this case). *Note: Faculty members and professors may frown upon this and proceed with caution. Then again I did get extra credit for it once.... when I used him as part of my project. Hey... it worked.*

19. They never even have the chance to miss or forget your birthday.

Not to mention they are guaranteed to make you smile during your special day.

20. You always have a study buddy.

And you don’t have to bribe them to go to the library with you. *Note: Again... some may frown upon sneaking your cat into the library.*

21. Lastly, and most importantly, they love you unconditionally.

They will always love you for who you are no matter what and will remain a constant and loyal friend. I can easily say having a cat has been the best decision I have ever made and I wouldn't trade my Tobi boy for anything.