Yes, you read that correctly. I am a cat person. This doesn't mean that I don't like dogs or have any hatred towards them. I love dogs and get just as excited as anyone else when I see a super cute puppy around campus or in a park. For years, I have gotten a lot of hatred for saying this from my dog owning friends (you know who you are), but I am here to tell you that I don't care what you think. If I can understand why you like dogs, you should listen to and try to understand why I love cats. I am and always will be a cat person, and here are a few reasons why.

1. They are low maintenance

Having a cat is easy. They clean themselves, don't need to be walked or let outside and are easily house trained. Unlike puppies, cats rarely have accidents. You show them where the litter box is once and they understand. I remember when my friend had new puppies, they would constantly have accidents and I remember thinking, Wow, I am so happy I don't have to deal with this. I really never feel jealous seeing my friends walking their dogs early in the morning or struggling to wash their dog as he or she struggles against the water.

2. They are loyal

The people that do not believe that this is true do not have cats. Cats will not cuddle up to just anyone that enters the house like dogs will. Whenever my extended family comes over, my cat will disappear until everyone leaves, proving his loyalty to his family. Cats will never leave your side, even when you are trying to do work on your computer!

3. You have to earn their love

Like I said before, cats won't be friendly to just anyone. It takes time, trust and perseverance to get a cat to love you. I think this is one of my favorite parts about having a cat. I know that he really loves me and I feel honored when he decides to hang out in my room or cuddle with my on the couch. Earning a cat's love is tough, but you know it is real once you gain it, which makes it even better.

4. They are adorable (and funny!)

I think it is fair to argue that cats are just as cute and cuddly as dogs. Puppies and kittens attract the same number of "awws," both proving to be adorable. In terms of being funny, I always see videos entitled "funny cat videos" but not nearly as many for dogs. Cat memes are ever present, proving that cats are entertaining to have as pets and bring just as much joy as a dog could.

While I understand everyone has their own (strong) opinion on this issue, I think cats get a bad rep when it comes to choosing a pet. I get the allure of a dog, I really do. They are more social, you'll get praise in the form of likes and comments on your Instagram for #nationaldogday and have a companion with you for life. Cats are seen as a second tier pet when they should really be up on top with the rest of the dogs. I hope this article makes those who hate on cats understand a little bit more why us cat lovers would choose our cats over a dog any day and stop the animosity between the two animal loving groups. So the next time you decide you need a new pet in your life, consider owning a cat and then you'll get what all of the fuss is about.