The battle of which makes the best pet — cats vs. dogs – rages on. But hear us out. For all their positives, and there are many, dogs do have some major drawbacks as pets. You’re about to discover 10 compelling reasons why cats clearly are the best pets.
10. Cats Keep Unwanted Pests Out of Your Home
Cats may be domesticated, but they haven’t lost their instinct as hunters. Feral cats survive easily in the wild due to their natural skills in stalking prey. A cat’s proclivity to hunt keeps your home and surrounding area free of rats, mice, bugs, and other critters. The scent of a cat alone is a repellent and deterrent for rodents.
9. Having a Cat Can Lead to Fewer Allergies
Wait! You say… Isn’t an allergy to cats common? A study by the National Institutes of Health found that babies who were exposed to a cat during their first year were less likely to develop allergies of all types. Early exposure to cats protects against pet allergies, as well as common allergies such as ragweed, grass, and dust mites.
8. Having a Cat is Good for Your Health
Cats have a calming effect on their owners, according to numerous studies. The soothing action of petting and the gentle sound of purring helps cat owners fall asleep. These soothing effects can lower blood pressure and heart attack risk. A 10-year study found that cat owners were 30% less likely to die of a heart attack or stroke.
7. Cats Have a Lengthy Lifespan
When a pet becomes your companion, it becomes like family and a big part of your life. One heartbreak dog owners experience is their pet’s short lifespan. Many large dog breeds only live 8-10 years. Cats, however, have an average lifespan of 12 years, but many live into their high teens or even early 20s.
6. Cats Are Independent
Dogs usually require a lot of attention, exercise, and grooming. They can be high maintenance. Cats, however, are quite independent. Many cats insist on their alone time. Cats also sleep about 15 hours a day. You don’t have to worry about leaving them alone. Dogs, when left alone, can be destructive when they become bored.
5. It’s Less Expensive to Care for a Cat
Caring for a cat costs much less than caring for a medium or large dog. Cats require less of everything. According to the ASPCA, on average annually, you’ll spend $125 less on food, $65 less on vet bills, and $45 less on preventative medication. Sure, you’ll spend $150 on kitty litter but that’s way less than dog grooming.
4. Cats Are Apartment-Friendly Pets
Let’s start with the litter box. Your cat can do its business without going outdoors. Most dogs can’t and need to be taken outside several times daily. This can be time-consuming if you live in a large building. Then there’s the weather. Also, medium and large dogs need space. Cats are fine even in small square footage.
3. Cats Are Easily House Trained
From the moment you bring a kitten home, it instinctively knows how to use the litter box. A puppy, on the other hand, involves a challenging chore of house training, messes to clean up, and lost sleep on your part. Show a cat where the litter box is and you’re done.
Read More: 10 Tips to Win Over Your Cat
2. Cats Are Low-Maintenance
Immediately, dogs require training (if you don’t want all your stuff destroyed or to get sued because your dog bit someone). Dogs have to be taken or let out multiple times a day. Cats are self-sufficient. Sure, you might need to discourage them from jumping on counters. Long-haired cats need regular grooming, but way less than long-haired dogs.
Read More: How to Bathe a Cat and Avoid Disaster
1. Cats Are Quiet
Depending on your living situation, a noisy pet can be problematic. Barking dogs can have neighbors complaining or calling the cops. That won’t happen with a cat’s meow. Plus, your home life will be quieter and more chill overall. Sure, some cats can be energetic in spurts. Dogs, however, can be more vocal and demanding all day long.
Read More: 8 Reasons to Adopt an Older Cat
