Being a cat owner is one of the most interesting things you could do in life. Cats can be very weird, but in a good way. I've found that cat ownership has it's ups and downs, so I took my many years of cat ownership and made list. Adopting a cat is a commitment that can last 20 years, so the pros and cons are important.

Here are some cons of cat ownership:

1. Hair everywhere

Cats do shed. Some shed a lot. Cat fur is very soft and it has a way of weaving itself through any material. So, you can expect your clothes, comforter, and other furniture to be covered in fur. To minimize this issue, you may need to brush your cat, but it's ok. They usually love it!

2. Claws

All cats have them and they are very painfully sharp. From my experience, if you do something that a cat doesn’t appreciate, it will have no issues about scratching you unmercifully. Sometimes, they may even take it out on your furniture.

However, please do not de-claw your cat. It is very painful for them and it's how the defend themselves.

3. The litterbox

Unlike dogs, cats pee and poop in your house. The good news is cats don't have to be potty trained. They already know to use the litter box. The bad news is that you will have to clean it. Cleaning the litter box is basically every cat lovers' least favorite chore.

And now here are the pros of being cat ownership:

1. They’re entertaining

Cats are incredibly strange animals, but they're hilarious at times. I think all cats eventually do this thing where they just run around the house like they’re on fire. Why? I have no clue. My cat has done this numerous of times and it always makes me laugh.

2. Can be super playful

Cats can either be lazy, hyper, or both. My cat is both and it shows when she's playful. It's fun and entertaining to play with your cat or watch them play with each other. Beware of claws!

3. Low maintenance

Cats are self-sufficient animals. All you need to do is provide food, water, a clean litter box, and a good brush now and again. Cats clean themselves. This is great since you really do not want to have to give a cat a bath anyway. That wouldn't be the best idea.

You could easily stay away from home for a night or two without them being too bothered. Most cats do well being home alone. If you go away for longer than that, you’ll want someone to check in on them.

4. They can be very affectionate

Nothing is better for your mental health after a bad day than a cat's purrs and affection. When you’re upset or even sick, they always know and they will curl up beside you. I wake up with my cat snuggled up next to me almost every morning. It’s really a very nice way to wake up, feeling loved. A cat's affection and trust is something you have to earn, though.

If you want a cat, adopt one from your local animal shelter. Many of them need good loving homes!