When I tell people that I have two cats, their response is typically the same: crinkled nose and a frown while easily dismissing the idea that cats are cool pets.

Their response tends to be some form of, “I am not a cat person.”

If you have ever owned a cat, you know for a fact that they are fantastic pets and just as great as any dog (or any other domestic pet).

If you still insist cats are not worthy of your undying love and obsessive affection, then I have nine reasons cats are purr-fect pets.

1. Pure entertainment

Cats are just socially awkward animals desperately trying to fit in. They sleep most of their days away; yet still manage to get into mischief (such as, finding the hidden toilet paper and shredding it to tiny, useless pieces). Even though their antics can be relentlessly annoying, I still find all of their bizarre behaviors to be endearing and extremely entertaining.

Plus, Chai loves to play fetch with her toy mice, and Dexter loves any game/toy involving treats.

2. Natural Stress Relief

Long, treacherous days of rude people and constant running around drain every ounce of energy and happiness from my soul.

Except the moment I walk into the apartment I am greeted by two excited cats, one meowing loudly until I pay attention to him, and the other rubbing against my legs multiple times.

They instantly melt the stress of the day away and put a smile back on my face.

3. Cozy naptime companions

I don’t nap very often but anytime I do one or both of my cats always accompany me.

They knead the fuzzy blanket covering me and purr loudly, content with their comfortable napping spot.

4. A sense of accomplishment

I had cats growing up, and one dog. Of course, I helped feed and care for them but having your own pets feels different. Your daily routine always involves your pet, and sometimes I cannot contain the excitement of being responsible for two living things and succeeding every day.

5. The constant reminder that you are loved

I know dogs and other pets make us feel loved, but cats can be a bit harder to win their affection.

My days would be empty without Dexter following me from room to room meowing loudly so I pay attention to him.

6. They are highly intelligent

Dogs are easier to train because they love to please their human; cats do not exactly care about pleasing their people but can be trained to do tricks simply because they have the brain capacity to learn new skills.

Dexter can successfully sit and “high five” as long as food is involved. He will do just about anything for extra treats.

7. Provide a topic of conversation

Whether you are arguing with a friend that cats are just as great as dogs, or talking to other cat lovers about your undying obsession with your cats (and any other cat-related things.) There will always be a great topic of conversation, and it can even lead to sharing hilarious cat memes or videos to keep everyone laughing.

8. Self-esteem booster

Because cats have the reputation of being too independent and not as loving as dogs, befriending a cat can be so satisfying. Gaining their love and trust can take some coaxing, but when you do, it feels like you can do just about anything.

9. More effective security system

Sure, dogs can be great for guarding your house from strangers, but usually, they react to a noise or movement in the moment. Cats are more active at night and hear every tiny noise.

Cats are also super dramatic, so anything out of the ordinary will be detected right away and investigated. Their fur might stand up, making them appear fluffier, or they will run from window to window to really get a good look.

I know when the squirrels outside are getting into the garbage or the neighborhood cats are using our lawn as their resting spot before heading home. I can tell when someone is coming to the door because both of the cats are eagerly wide-eyed looking for the source of the footsteps on the grass.

I promise, if you just give cats the respect they truly deserve and pay attention to them on their terms, you will find a furry best friend eager to love you back.