It's one of the oldest debates in the book: which is the reigning champion of pets, cats or dogs? Some would say dogs are man's true companions and far outshine cats. Others proudly proclaim themselves to be crazy cat people and devote their loyalty to our feline companions. If you ask me, the simplest way to solve the cats vs. dogs debacle is to love both, because cats and dogs are all adorable and special in their own right. As devoted as I am to both sides, however, I confess myself slightly fonder of cats than dogs, which may appall many dog-lovers out there.
In my experience, it seems that many people on the dog side of the debate tend to dislike or simply tolerate cats, while most cat fans seem to like dogs as well. What a lot of dog devotees don't seem to realize is that cats are much more similar to dogs than we humans give them credit for. So, in the good name of all felines out there, here are five reasons why cats deserve to be man's other best friend.
1. Cats are loyal.
On the surface, some cats may seem like indifferent roommates more than loving pets. While it is true that not all cats will jump for joy every time they see their owners, once a cat is brought into your warm and cozy home, it becomes a part of the family just like a dog does. Many cats are incredibly attached to their humans-- mine, for instance, follows me around the house everywhere and calls for her "mama" every time she can't find me. She is also very protective of me and our family and gets a bit antsy every time a stranger comes to the house. Some loyal cats can even make great little bodyguards, like this Internet sensation that saved a young boy from a dog attack. Talk about a ferocious feline.
2. Cats can be great playmates.
Like dogs, every cat's personality is different, and some cats can never get enough playtime. There are all sorts of toys for cats to enjoy, from feather chasers to catnip mice that they can bat around when you're too tired or too busy to play with them. Certain kitties even know how to play fetch like a dog and will gladly bring their toys to you so you can keep throwing them around the house. Some cats love every toy under the sun and some are a little pickier, but if you find the right way to spark the attention your feline friend, even the laziest cats-- like mine-- can be fun playmates.
3. Cats are cuddle bugs.
Who ever said that cats aren't affectionate? As with playfulness, not all cats are guaranteed to enjoy snuggling. However, if you've got a cuddly cat, it's like having a little furry bundle of happiness sleeping on the couch or in your bed with you. Some cats prefer to curl up by your feet, while others might sprawl across your stomach or use your face as a rather lumpy pillow. Wherever your cat likes to take its cat naps, I find that there's something incredibly calming about having a purring cat snoozing beside you. (Warning: being near sleeping cats may result in accidental naps for you, too.)
4. Cats are entertaining.
The Internet is chock full of cat videos for a reason. Cats are goofballs prone to all kinds of silly antics. Some have a knack for falling off their perches, some like to knock other objects onto the floor, some are sock thieves and some like to stick their tongues out when they sleep. My feline friend tends to do all of the above, much to the amusement of the humans in my family. Whatever your cat's special talent is, they're guaranteed to keep you laughing, perhaps when you least expect it.
5. Cats will love you unconditionally.
Just as dogs will adore you no matter what, a cat who loves you is yours forever. They'll greet you when you come home, keep you company while you work around the house, bring you gifts from the yard (even if you don't actually want them), groom your hair for you, cheer you up when you're sad, and be your very best friend. Some may not seem to show affection as readily as dogs do, but cats have their own ways of demonstrating their love, so long as you know how to recognize them. Cats even wag their tails-- it just looks more like a lazy wave than a little fluffy propeller.
So, if you adore dogs and are on the fence about cats, I encourage you to give the bitty kitties a chance. They probably won't take the place of dogs on your favorite animal scale, and that's perfectly fine, but who knows: perhaps you'll meet a cat someday that knows exactly how to steal your heart.
