For many millennia, people have domesticated cats and cherished them worldwide. We know them for their independence, elegance, and affectionate personalities. This article discusses why cats make amazing companions, covering the positive and negative aspects of having cats as pets, the benefits of cat ownership, and the best cat breeds for different demographics.

Today, cats are the second most popular pet in the United States, with over 42.7 million households owning at least one cat. Cats are cute, cuddly, and have become an essential part of many families. They provide companionship, emotional support, and entertainment.

History of Cats as Companion Animals

People have kept cats as pets for millennia. Ancient Egyptians revered cats as deities, kept them as household pets, believed cats brought good luck, and they punished the killing of a cat with death.

Ancient Greeks and Romans valued cats for their hunting skills and their ability to control rodent populations. During the Middle Ages, wealthy families in Europe kept cats as a symbol of their wealth and status.

It wasn’t until the late 1800s that cats became popular as pets in the United States. Madison Square Garden hosted the most famous and largest of the early shows cat show in 1895. The Persian breed was one of the most popular breeds at the first show.

Companionship

For many people worldwide, cats are welcome companions. They are independent animals, but they also love attention and affection. This makes them perfect pets for people who want a companion that is not too clingy or needy.

According to a study conducted by the University of Missouri, cats are loyal and affectionate animals that can provide emotional support to their owners, especially during difficult times.

Health Benefits

Cats can also provide many health benefits to their owners. According to The Cleveland Heart Lab, owning a cat can lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. This is because cats can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are major risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

Cats can also help improve your mental health. A published study found cat owners have lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to non-cat owners. This mental improvement is due to the emotional support and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Negatives of Having Cats as Pets

While cats can make amazing companions, there are also some negatives associated with owning a cat. The T-shirt phrase “If the Earth Was Flat, Cats Would Have Pushed Everything Off It by Now” is true to life. Not only are cats likely to knock over objects in your home, but they also like to scratch furniture and carpets.

Cats also require attention and care. They need to be regularly fed, groomed, and taken to the vet. This can take time and be expensive, especially for people who have busy schedules.

Breed Characteristics

Cats are fascinating creatures with a wide range of personalities and traits that are unique to their breed. From the elegant Siamese to the playful Sphynx, each cat breed has its distinct characteristics that make them stand out.

Opting for a purebred cat may seem like a reliable way to predict your feline’s physical attributes and temperament. However, it’s crucial to understand that it’s not a foolproof method.

Even among cats of the same breed, there can be significant differences in behavior, personality, and even appearance. This is because both genetic makeup and the environment in which the cat is raised have a significant influence on their development.

It’s impossible to predict with absolute certainty how a particular cat will behave or respond to their surroundings and human companions. A cat’s preferences and attitudes are as unique as those of their human counterparts. Nonetheless, it’s universally true that all cats thrive on love, attention, and respect. Providing these essentials to your feline friend is essential for their well-being and happiness.

Here is a deep dive into cat breeds and their traits.

Cat Characteristics and Personality by Breed, Courtesy of The Cat Fanciers’ Association, Inc.

Adopting Mixed Breed Kittens and Older Cats

Adopting a mixed breed or an older cat can be a fantastic option for those looking to add a feline friend to their home. Here are some of the benefits of choosing mixed breed or older cats:

Unique personality
Mixed breed cats have a wide range of personality traits, making them unique and special in their own way. They are often more adaptable and able to adjust to different environments and situations, making them great companions for any household.

Reduced health issues
Purebred cats may be more prone to genetic health issues, while mixed breed cats are often healthier due to their diverse genetic background.

Lower cost
Adopting a mixed breed or older cat is generally less expensive than purchasing a purebred kitten from a breeder. Additionally, older cats may already be spayed or neutered and have had their necessary vaccinations, which can save on initial vet costs.

Mature behavior
Older cats have already developed their personalities, so you can get a better idea of what to expect from them. They may be less energetic and require less training than a kitten. This can be an ideal situation for someone who doesn’t have a lot of time to dedicate to training and playing with a young cat.

Saving a life
By adopting a mixed breed or older cat, you are giving a second chance to a cat that may have been abandoned or surrendered by its previous owners. Providing a loving home to a cat in need can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

Adopting a mixed breed or older cat can be a great choice for those looking to bring a feline companion into their home. They offer unique personalities, reduced health issues, lower cost, matured behavior, and the satisfaction of saving a life.

Demographics

Cats can be wonderful pets for people of all ages and lifestyles. Different demographics may choose cats as pets for various reasons. This section explores the benefits of cat ownership for each demographic and the best cat breeds for each group.

Young Singles and Newly Married Couples

Young singles and newly married couples often lead busy lifestyles, making cats a popular choice for pets. Cats are independent and do not require as much attention as dogs. They are perfect companions for those who have busy schedules but still want the love and affection of a pet.

The best cat breeds for young singles and newly married couples are those that are easy-going, low-maintenance, and affectionate. The Siamese, Persian, and Scottish Fold are popular choices for their playful personalities and low-maintenance needs. Siamese cats are known for their social nature and will often follow their owners around, while Persians and Scottish Folds are gentle and affectionate, making them great lap cats.

Families

Families with children may choose cats as pets because they are good with kids and can provide companionship to children. Cats are playful and entertaining, which can help children develop social skills and reduce feelings of loneliness.

The best cat breeds for families are those that are friendly, playful, and gentle. The American Shorthair, Ragdoll, and Maine Coon are popular choices for their affectionate personalities and love for children. American Shorthairs are adaptable and can easily fit into a family’s lifestyle, while Ragdolls are known for their gentle nature and love for snuggling. Maine Coons are playful and intelligent, making them a significant source of entertainment for children.

Middle-Aged and Older People

Middle-aged and older people may choose cats as pets because they provide companionship and emotional support. Cats are low-maintenance animals and can adapt to smaller living quarters, making them perfect for those who live in apartments or small homes.

The best cat breeds for middle-aged and older people are those that are calm, affectionate, and low maintenance. The British Shorthair, Himalayan, and Russian Blue are popular choices for their gentle and laid-back personalities. British Shorthairs are known for their calm and friendly nature, while Himalayans are affectionate and love to cuddle. Russian Blues are intelligent and loyal, making them amazing companions for those who value loyalty and companionship.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cats make amazing companions for many reasons. They are loyal, affectionate, and independent animals that can provide emotional support and improve your health. While there are some negatives associated with owning a cat, the positives far outweigh the negatives. To ensure a successful relationship with your cat, it is important to provide them with proper care, training, and attention. With the right care and attention, a cat can provide companionship and emotional support for many years to come.

References:

Spots.com website Updated: March 22, 2023 https://spots.com/pet-ownership-statistics/

The Treasury of Egyptian Mythology by Donna Jo Napoli with illustrations by Christina Balit. Text copyright © 2013 Donna Jo Napoli. Illustrations copyright © 2013 reprinted by National Geographic Kids https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/pages/article/cats-rule-in-ancient-egypt

The Cat Fanciers’ Association Foundation, Inc. Website, https://www.felinehistoricalfoundation.org/cosey.html

Barker SB, Schubert CM, Barker RT, Kuo SI, Kendler KS, Dick DM. The Relationship between Pet Ownership, Social Support, and Internalizing Symptoms in Students from the First to Fourth Year of College. Appl Dev Sci. 2020;24(3):279-293. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7394412/

Do Pets Help Your Heart? CLEVELAND HEARTLAB Website MARCH 9, 2020 https://www.clevelandheartlab.com/blog/do-pets-help-your-heart/

Bolstad CJ, Porter B, Brown CJ, Kennedy RE, Nadorff MR. The Relation Between Pet Ownership, Anxiety, and Depressive Symptoms in Late Life https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8580122/

The Cat Fanciers’ Association, Inc. Website https://cfa.org/breeds/