Growing up in a predominantly dog town, gave me even more of an incentive to own cats. I was and still am ridiculed for my cat obsession, often being labelled as a crazy cat lady. I’m almost certain I am not cut out to own a canine, and am one of those people who jumps out of the way when they see a big dog walking down the street. Out of any pet I could have, cats won out every time. Here’s why:

1.Petting their fur is a stress reliever

Unless you’re allergic (in which case you don’t need to continue reading) petting a cat after a long irritating day at work, is one of the most comforting things you could do besides make yourself an aromatic cup of tea. Snuggling your cat on the couch wrapped up in blankets is high on my list for stress relievers. The soothing softness and reassuring purrs get me every time. What is better than a good book, your favorite show on in the background, that cup of tea I mentioned earlier, and your cat next to you?

2.You don’t need to take them for walks

Who wants to take their barking dog for a walk at two in the morning? Not me. I will be in bed with my cat snuggling my feet. Cats are quite independent and the owner can often choose whether or not their pet even goes outside. Although, my cats do enjoy four a.m. sprints around the house if their bowls are empty..

3.They don’t need assistance going to the bathroom

Although sifting through the litter box isn’t my idea of fun, neither is having scheduled times walking a dog so they can go. Then picking it up with those little bags is where I would draw the line.

4.There’s nothing funnier than giving them cat nip

Giving your pet the equivalent of human drugs is not only hilarious, but it keeps you entertained until they come back down to Earth. Out of all the toys my cat could choose, cat nip is the funniest. Watching how insane they go over a little mouse toy filled with cat nip, is probably the best pet invention.

5.They have the cutest paws. Ever.

Looking at how cute a kitten or a cat’s paws are, are reason enough to get one. The constant kneading they do on blankets before sitting down for a nap, may be one of the cutest things you will ever see. Watching them stretch their paws during a lazy sleep is just plain relaxing.