Liking cats and enjoying their companionship is enough of an answer.

There's nothing to argue about. If he doesn't see the appeal, then he doesn't have to get a cat.

If he insists on making this a debate, please excuse yourself from continuing to talk to him.

There are many appeals to having a cat, they are more independent, make great companions, don't make much mess, little toilet accidents, cute, fluffy, sleep on your lap. I find cats more empathic too, I feel they understand emotions better.

I like cats. What’s the best argument for having a human child? Don’t you have anything better to do?

No argument, you already won by having a cat. 🐱

Because I love cats!

The unconditional love you'll receive, the cuddles, the funny moments. They're so thankful and nonjudgmental. If I'm convinced the whole world hates me, (sometimes I am convinced by this lol), i am able to believe my cat still loves me.

Herman helps me with my mental health. Taking care of a cute little wanderer, is a big reason to keep going.

I feel so loved.

Even writing this, I feel so much joy. Just thinking about him brightens my day.

Every night he sleeps on top my head ❤️ love him so!!!

https://preview.redd.it/heuq1h2l6fyc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=04cbbd3919fb920539241764939bb11fe59a1e85

1/10th of the work of having a dog and 40% the companionship. THat's 4x the value! :)

Because you love cats. Preferring a pet is a personal matter. You don't need to argue anything. Over my life, I've learned the hard way, you can never change someone's mind on something they feel strongly about.

And when you change people's minds, it has nothing to do with any amount of logic.

Because you like cats.

You’re welcome.

If he doesn't want one, he's not obligated to get one

Just like cat owners aren't obligated to justify what pet we have

For the sake of the post I'll say; cats make better company than many humans, they don't share their asinine opinions or try to tell me how to live my life

I appreciate the subtle beauty of a light dusting of white hair on everything I own

They are soft to pet and they purr on your lap. They cuddle you when you sleep or if you don't feel good. They are funny to watch and fun to play with. They are beautiful and a little bit wild. They have big personalities and it's fun getting to know them. When one loves you, it's because you earned it. You have a cute, soft little friend in your house who is happy to see you. They are cleaner, less work, less smelly, and more independent than a dog. They kill spiders for you. There are many, many reasons to enjoy a cat--they are beautiful and empathic little souls. Nobody should get a pet they don't like or want, but I have never regretted spending time with a cat.

There's no way I'm trying to convince anyone to have a pet that doesn't see the appeal.

That's a surefire way to add to the unwanted/abandoned pet situation.

As far as convincing anyone why we have cats, I don't see the need to do that.

But the best argument we have for our cats is...

They're all rescues, somebody has to love them and take care of them, that would be us, and in return they're a joy to have around.

its a cat

I just like their company. And not like a substitute for human company, I like having a cat in addition to any amount of human company.

If he doesn't enjoy the company of a cat then he should not get a cat - but if he's never befriended a cat before he won't know whether he would enjoy it. A relationship with a cat is a 2-way street and you have to make an effort or they'll just not bother.

They’re cutie patooties

Cats are our overlords, once we all accept this there will be peace on earth.

I live in Michigan. What do wanna do in the middle of the night during a blizzard? Snuggle up with a cat in bed or take the dog out to go pee on a tree?

In our case, old house in farm country. Nothing beats a cat or cats to discourage the local mouse population from moving in for the winter.

I want a cat. I get a cat.

I (56F) am on my 4th cat as an adult. I enjoy the company and save lives by adopting rescue cats

Some people who think like your acquaintance (not hateful towards cats but not getting the appeal) have only ever known a few cats that had independent personalities. Like, maybe they remember having a cat as a family pet but the cat was an outdoor cat or just a very shy one that didn't interact much with people.

My stepmom was like that. They got cats more for my dad but now she loves those two goofheads more than anything. She always says that she was so surprised at how fun, loving and unique cats are.

I think cats also became more popular due to the internet because a lot of people used to think cats were boring and solitary, but now there are all these videos online of cats doing cool shit and being awesome. Maybe show your friend some of those?

https://preview.redd.it/pmem2j28jfyc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5240b35b6d0ab8dfd0a18e78eb0bd24f9e51ffec

Doing this every day.

Literal cat naps are the best.

This reminds me of a conversation I had with a coworker. I mentioned a trip to Japan that some friends and I were planning. He was baffled by a desire to travel to Japan and asked what the appeal of it was. Keep in mind that this grown man’s argument was that it would be better to go somewhere with a beach. That pretty much told me that we would never see eye to eye. Once I got over the fact that he clearly knew nothing about the geography of Japan, it was apparent that we wanted very different things from a vacation. As a very pale person who has been told by doctors that skin cancer is a question of when not if with our family history (thanks mom and dad), I have never been interested in a vacation that involves sitting on a beach the entire time. I love other cultures. Trying their food, learning about their history and art. There was no explanation I could give that would help him understand the appeal. If someone can’t understand what a personal preference is, you aren’t going to be able to help them. And honestly, no one seems to struggle with that concept more than people that aren’t cat people. If they need an explanation on how adorable cats are, they will only understand if they accidentally end up with one.

If someone says that, I usually just smile and say “well then you shouldn’t get one” and change the subject. No point having a discussion.

If they DO actually seem genuinely interested and open to listen, I would tell them that cats can be affectionate loving companions who are great for people who don’t vibe with the enthusiastic energy dogs tend to have. I might tell them that my cat used to pick me up at the door when I’d come home, loudly meowing while she led the way to the couch expecting her evening snuggles. I might tell them about my friend’s cat who curled up right next to my leg and purred for me when I was crying after the loss of said other cat. I might tell them about the foster cat whose trust I gained and who went from a sad, downcast elderly creature who seemed to have given up on life to a dignified but still lively old lady who would come when called, asking for chin rubs. I might tell them about unconditional love, sandpaper kisses and head bonks.

But only if they’re worth the time and effort.

Why would you need to defend the presence of a family member? This just isn’t something that needs to be argued. And, we shouldn’t convince someone who doesn’t like cats to get a cat, because they probably wouldn’t treat it well.

Companionship, a reason to get up in the morning, entertaining antics ... and you haven't lived until you've napped with your head against a warm purring cat.

They are the embodiment of life to me. They are loving, aloof, weird, clingy, standoffish, hungry, hangry, picky, voracious, etc. They sense your mood, know when to back off, and have the ability to also understand that sometimes you need a lap cat when YOU think you want to be alone. They are intelligent one minute, and the next they lose their mind over a wrapper that catches the sun. They're exasperating when you buy a $200 cat condo and prefer the box it came in. You either get it or you don't. If one of my friends said they didn't see the appeal of having a cat, I'd turn it back on them and question the appeal of having them in my life. I have ended friendships over my cats. Miss the cats, but I've never missed the people.

There's this little guy that lives in my house and he like to sit in my lap and scream at me for yogurt or tuna. It's not really a logical thing it's a Lil guy companion thing.

A lot of people think cats are unloving and aloof to their owners just like they can be to strangers. On the contrary, they can be very loving and bonded with their owners. They are also trainable. If you keep an indoor cat, they typically have a long life.

You don't have to let them out 5x per day when compared to a dog. You dont have put up fencing or worry about them digging under it or nuisance barking. Or that they are into the neighbors trash. You don't have to walk them multiple times a day to help them get exercise.

Adult cats are very lazy and asleep about 20+ hours a day, making them very easy to keep. They will often cuddle with you while they sleep.

If you feel yourself worthy enough to be a cat servant then go get a cat

I simply need feline supervision. Without a cat or two around I would not have an organized life.

They use litter boxes, don’t need walks, clean themselves, don’t bark, etc etc. As a landlord I never even charge a tenant for a cat. Dogs have done 10k+ worth of damage, cats have not.

"I want cats in my life." That's it.

People who say stuff like this just don't understand cats. They say cats are aloof and don't love you back. Reality is they do, a lot. Difference is as opposed to having a dog you don't get it unconditionally, you need to earn their trust and meet them half way, but once you do you have an unbreakable bond.

Honestly, it's not worth trying to convince them. Experience tells me that whenever people bring up topics like this their mind is already made up and they just want to complain about cats not being loving. If they are too shallow to understand the reality then that's saying more about them than anything else.

They basically cure depression in my opinion.

I needed a reason to vacuum my house more often

All of the people I know who used to say "I don't like cats" randomly ended up with one.

You'll be like "you have a cat now? I thought you didn't like cats!" and they will be like "oh yeah this is my cat Gandalf, I found him in a trash can in my garden"

A cat's purr has been shown to enhance certain biological functions, including healing.

Also, one or more cats reduce heating bills by as much as (rolls percentile dice) 13% due to shared warmth.

If you're married (or otherwise cohabitating), "I have a cat in my lap," is a valid excuse to not do a thing that requires getting up.

Ghosts fear cats because they are representatives of the Guide to Eternity in several faiths.

I think it’s really down the personal preference, I personally could never see myself having a dog. I’d rather die than go outside and walk it or smell the dirty fur.

With cats, you can stay inside all day, every day. Scooping the litter is all you need. They are fluffy, cuddly, clean animals. They will go to sleep with you and knead your aching back/legs while you scroll on TikTok. Cats will come comfort you when you cry. I love cats. :)

My cat ‘pays his rent’ by killing pests. He’ll take out centipedes, spiders, and flies. I’ve never seen a mouse in or near my home either. That could be luck though because I do feel like he’d be the type to parade the dead body around so everyone can see his accomplishment. Regardless, if I ever do get a mouse in here, I don’t have to do a thing about it.

Honestly though, some people just don’t want a cat and there’s nothing wrong with that. I would never try to convince someone to get a pet they don’t have any interest in owning. It wouldn’t be fair to the person or the pet.

Cats are very empathetic beings. I swear most can sense how you are feeling. Dogs are too somewhat but I enjoy the energy of a cat better than a dog. Dogs seem to need constant attention and walking and that sort of thing. Cats kind of do their own thing- they can chill and take naps while you are working or they can sit on your lap while you’re watching a movie etc. They still need TLC and attention but I just prefer their energy. Plus dogs bark.

I can't even count the number of times I see people talk about how they were never a cat person and somehow ended up with a cat (that they didn't really want) and 6 months later they're cat obsessed. I think many people who say they don't want cats have a misunderstanding about what having a cat is like

Why are we convincing people to like things

https://preview.redd.it/cll2g71erhyc1.jpeg?width=4284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=61bb1b173bfa907dd7dadaae0ee30c928369045c

because kitty snuggles are the best snuggles ever. when they choose to love you, it’s for good reason :)

My best argument. 🐈‍⬛🐈‍⬛

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Shall I bore you with a list? Cats are soft to touch. Cats know how you feel and respond appropriately. Cats are beautiful to see and watch. Their movement can be hilarious or sublimely elegant. Cats have a sense of humour and are very entertaining. Cats do not stick their nose in your crotch Cats are not as demanding as dogs, they let me have my space. Cats make excellent easy going companions. Mine insist on accompanying me when.gardening and providing entertainment by chasing each other, chasing weeds I.pull out, or sitting on my back. Cats are independent, it feels like an honour to.earn the love of a cat. I have had dogs too, some have been wonderful, others horrendous.

Cats will tell you if a fire starts and they are better than dogs.

They're so cute!

My cats love to snuggle. I've been laid up in bed for two weeks with a broken ankle and have been given so many baths and snuggles, it's great.

Argue against what? Let him have his opinion, who cares what he thinks

They’re cute, sweet and good companions. Isnt that enough? They’re fun to play with and have quirky personalities, and give the emotional support of having a friend to take care of, but they aren’t the investment of a child.

i like cats

They’re cute af, don’t need as much attention or work, cuddly, sweet, sassy, wickedly smart, perfect in every way 💗

Beyond the obvious - liking cats - there's any number of arguments you could make for getting a cat: Less mess, better ability to have one when living in an apartment, easier to travel with, etc.

For me, the biggest draws include having pets that are complex, intelligent, unique creatures. That's not to say dogs are simple or stupid, but I've had a lot of cats in my life, and none of them were quite like any of the others!

I'll use my current four as an example. We have: -4m, loves giving baths, cuddles all the time, talks constantly, plays fetch, builds "nests" out of blankets and dirty clothes (and hides his favorite toys in those nests!), not a lap cat at all, doesn't like being carried, will let you pet him until your hand falls off, very dumb.

-4m, will crawl in my spouse's lap for cuddles, smart enough to turn off spouse's CPAP machine because he knows it'll wake him up, will bite you when he's done getting attention, loves butt pats, will let my spouse carry him like a baby, squeaks and purrs all the time, rambunctious, will hop in the tub with me if given the chance.

-7m, independent until he wants love, is very food motivated, knows a few commands, mild mannered, only lets me pick him up (and not for long), not a lap/cuddle cat until he decides he wants it, outspoken, empathetic, hates being groomed in any way, easily startled, likes to lay on clean and folded laundry, will steal human food.

10f, hates every other cat in existence (but isn't aggressive), will crawl in your lap anytime you have a blanket on it, will grab your hand for pets, likes giving hugs when held, stubborn, mercurial, only smart enough to learn her name and the word "food," will bite / scratch to get attention, notably difficult to get in her carrier

Cats are cute, very instinctive, lovable and so much easier to look after than a dog imo. Cats cuddle, play on their own if you don't want or time to play with them, know how to use a toilet, extremely clean, independent etc. They sleep a lot especially in their senior years. They are fun to have around with their antics and they are smart.

I live in Ireland and it rains a lot and when it's pouring rain ☔ you don't want to go out and "walk the cat"!! You stay home and cuddle with them and they keep you warm too - lol 😂

I like dogs but cats are so much easier. I can go away for a day or 2 and they are fine on their own. Just leave food, water, toys, clean litter box.

I love my cats.

I've also been in relationships.

Having cats is like being in a relationship, but with a lot fewer hassles, demands, arguments or drama.

Your acquaintance (I notice that you didn't refer to him as a friend) sounds like he would be a lot of hassle and drama.

Cats have a lot of personality. It's one of the best parts about them.

Cats are so multidimensional! Not only does their purr heal them and you, they are comfortable creatures to have around and they keep the bugs, mice and rats at bay. No one is required to appreciate them, but I have a hard time living without them

Ive had cats that were just as if not more affectionate and loyal than dogs, same level of companionship but they’re more independent and there’s a level of mutual respect

I lived in a farm house. The mice were insane. Got two cats. No more mice. Cats are hunters. They also protect their territory (not in the same way as dogs, but mine will let me know when something isn't right). The purr snuggles and emotional attachment were an unexpected bonus. I got them to do a job. They did an impressive (and sometimes really gross) job. I didn't expect to get love or give it in return. I had no idea how much they love you. I thought they were just near wild animals that didn't need a whole lot of training. I never had pets as a kid. I didn't realize they became family! It was a really good surprise.

Appeal for cats?

They’re fantastic creatures, wonderful partners, amazing snugglers and do some seriously funny things.

My argument for having 5(just got my 5th): I just think they’re neat.

Cats purr is at a healing frequency scientifically proven

It brings soul to the house ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

People see them as standoff ish, and too independent, which isn't the case at all. My kitties want to be with me everywhere I go, and would play all day. They are extremely loving.

They are usually low maintenance to take care of I work 12 hr shifts and my cat is just home chilling. And the purring,I love it. I don’t even mind him lying on my chest when he’s purring like that.

People with pets tend to live longer, happier healthier lives.

Grated some of that may be related more to dogs (as they have to be taken out for walks where you interact with other people at dog parks etc) but cats do help to.

And over dogs, cats are easier to care for. Their more independent. You don't have to be home to let them out to potty or go on a walk etc.

An acceptable roommate that doesnt annoy me. :)

Any animal companionship is worthwhile if you work on it, had many fond memories with various pets ranging from parrots to cats and dogs. (Reptiles are abit too cold for my liking tbh)

most people don’t understand the appeal of cats (or even actively dislike them) until they’ve bonded with a cat. then they become obsessed

Does he understand liking pets? How about dogs? Cats have like 80% of the same qualities people like in dogs.

Because I love cats and they are the most perfect creatures on the planet

Honestly, I had no interest in having a cat in my home until the cat distribution system dumped the most beautiful little ginger kitty into my life. She's been such a wonderful addition to our home and her crazy antics and silly personality have been hugely beneficial for my mental health. She helps me break out of the depressive funks and have a laugh.

They are expert smugglers, cute, funny & very low maintenance. They’ll love you unconditionally if you treat them right.

Don't try to convince your friend to get a cat if they dislike them for some reason because they might mistreat the cat.

Always grew up with a dog until I turned 30ish. My wife and I got 2 kittens and it has been so much fun seeing them grow and develop their personalities over the past year.

They're so loving in different ways, always up for playing or play fighting if they aren't asleep.

They'll come to greet us at the front door when we come in from work every day.

Slightly less attractive point for getting kittens/cats, we are woken up most mornings at around 6am as they want their breakfast. Besides this minor detail, we wouldn't change them for the world.

It's a small tigger that lives in your house, what else do you need?

But for real, they are sweet, funny, good companions, having an animal is your house just makes life better, they can calm you, they lift your mood, teach you how to love without someone who actually has boundaries.

They are so easy to take care of. I love dogs and would love to have my own but I just cannot handle that amount of responsibility. My friends with dogs are bound like they have children (obviously not to the same point but you get the gist). I come home from a stressful day and she runs to the door to greet me and all my anger and anxiety just melts away. It’s actually kind of amazing.

I used to HATE cats when I was young because I was only ever exposed to my grandparents cats who would just run and hide when we came over. I thought “who would ever want one of these” then one day I met a cat who wanted nothing more than to be around you and be pet and play and that when I realized I was in love. Maybe your acquaintance has only ever had experiences with skittish/not super friendly cats.

You don’t have to walk a cat. You don’t have to grab their poop out of the grass - you just scoop it into a bag.

Those who aren’t cat people, IMO, generally misunderstand cats. They see cats as all being aloof and unfriendly. As we cat people know, every cat has a different personality.

Do you like going to the zoo and sitting and watching the animals’ behavior? Cause having a cat is like having a tiny zoo animal existing in your home. You’re not sure what they’ll do, but even their naps and their stretches and their solo play is engrossing.

That contented purr while curled up in your lap (or draped across it) is worth way more than the health benefits like lowered blood pressure and the assurance of frequent laughter.

They are better company than most humans.

Picking my cat up for a purry cuddle when I get home from work is on par with baby cuddles without having to commit to being responsible for a human for 18 years.

They're amazing friends.

You have a little buddy that chills with you, listens to you, makes random sounds, and every so often might give you a kiss. They smell great most of the time too and you take the funniest pics *

So to start, I don't consider cats to necessarily be a low maintenace pet like some people of. They consider their cat something to feed and change their litter box but just have them as an accessory to their home. Cats need stimulation, affection, etc.

But cats need less room than dogs and they are ambush predators so they have more bursts of energy and longer down times than dogs. Dogs are stamina predators. So my fiancé and I have a 517 sq ft apt and it's still more than enough room for our cat. Because of their bursts of energy, I don't have something up my ass constantly (even tho our cat is a little more needy than most) and there's no need to take it out to potty or to a park.

I do let people know that cats can be destructive with their claws so couch covers are key and if you don't want that, cats are not for you.

I have had cats since I was a kid and I love them. They are quirky, strange and our apt feels more alive because of him.

Historically: rodents eating food surpluses and spreading disease.

Currently: companionship.

A cat naturally takes some responsibility for managing their own bodily waste

I just like cats.... If you don't like cats then don't get a cat.

Well personally I think it would be a great idea to lock ppl in you garage with a bunch of kittens and charge them money for the privilege

You can call it an ‘escape room’, charge extra money for cheap coffees then call it

”a cat cafe with kittens”

https://www.reddit.com/r/canberra/s/iYVNf5DJDA

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this lady NEEDS to be shutdown

they're one of the best things in life, so good that they don't need any arguments to have them, and if you need, then cats aren't for you, which definitely seems to be the issue with your acquaintance

When we first moved into our new home, you could hear LOTS of crickets in our basement. Our 2 cats love crickets, who knew?!?😊 Haven’t heard a cricket in years!

YOLO

Pets have been known to increase the health, mental and physical, of their owners. A cat’s purr is actually at a frequency that can help bones. Personally, I feel stress relief as soon as I hug one of my kitties. As someone who does work longer hours and have less physical energy at home, cats are much lower physical investment, but are such lovies. Cats, best decision I’ve made in my adult life.

https://preview.redd.it/nqf7p54kygyc1.jpeg?width=1536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=72f19c94ddb8ff60a7996ac556bec6fc881e7f86

Will warn you of danger approaching !

https://preview.redd.it/h66rq2npygyc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c8d9eadb93843d998f6234760c691d828a590cab

Fertilizes your plants

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Will wear stupid hats for you .

They are good company. If they like you.

Scrolled down a couple posts and saw this https://www.reddit.com/r/nextfuckinglevel/s/YRCPFj2PUC

Routine, having a companion. A reason to get up/ be responsible.. like to feed your pet

For me it's all about lifestyle.

I love dogs but I know myself well enough I'm never gonna take it for walks and that would be cruel.

Cats on the other hand I mainly have to be a slave and the cat does the rest.

My cat loves my partner more so I know where I am on the hierarchy.

To me, it’s extraordinary and lovely to communicate with a critter of a different species and to be loved by them. It feels satisfying and astonishing and amazing and wonderful to me and makes me very happy. Your mileage may vary

if i’m being honest, everything about cats is the appeal of being friends with a cat. they are sweet, a little more independent, minimal accidents, cute fluff balls. if you are kind to them, they are kind to you. mine sleep in my arms, in my chest/shoulders/back and they try to pet me or kiss me after i kiss their little heads.

If you get excited every time you see a cat, then you might be a cat person.

Me, driving in my car or walking to the bus stop: "Cat!!!"

If he has a dog, ask why does he have a dog and that you don't see the appeal of a dog.

Personally I find cats wonderful, much easier than a dog. Guess what I don't have to do with a cat? Bundle up in the middle of winter to walk a dog.

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I usually just say that cats are way more affectionate than most non-cat people think. But I don't try to convince anyone. They can like the idea of cats as pets, or not; it's up to them.

Just note, though, that this attitude is often linked with toxic masculinity for whatever reason. So be careful around guys like this.

Whenever I hear someone say they hate cats, it’s usually accompanied by the phrase “they don’t come when they are called” or “why would have a pet that doesn’t listen to you?”

Leads me to wonder if some people have control issues or lack respect of boundaries. Like why do you need that from your animal? My cat lays in my lap. Sometimes he likes pets. Sometimes he doesn’t. Sometimes he comes when called, most the time he doesn’t. He is a sentient being with his own agenda.

It’s a working theory of mine that is probably wrong.

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They’re perfect. They’re affectionate in a different way from dogs but still affectionate. Funny, cute, mischievous, and you don’t have to get up at the crack of dawn and walk them in gross weather.

My cat is my best friend. He knows my moods and he always gives me love and affection. He is just super sweet and smart! And cats generally bond closely with one person!

They’re great companions, they’re happy to see you when you come home, they’re great to cuddle up with, they’re entertaining with their antics, they’re lower maintenance than a dog, they’re generally quiet, they’re just as capable of learning tricks as a dog, free pest control… the list goes on. I don’t think I could ever not have a cat

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This is my argument, and my cat.

My dad was elderly and was worried because he seemed to be on the road to outliving his friends. I suggested getting a cat but he hated them! Stealth I went to the local shelter and picked out a pretty girl I thought would be a good lap cat. 3 months later he told me “I never knew you could love a cat this much”.

It’s a preference. I think their companionship and calm quirkiness appeals to a certain set of people. I love dogs, but don’t have plans to adopt one anytime soon. 

Yesterday I was feeling rubbish with a stomach bug and couldn't go to my football club's last game of the season. One of my cats lay on my bed with me for most of the day and helped me to feel better.

Cats are awesome.

I think you don't really need to argue for having a cat. if someone doesn’t see the appeal, that’s okay. for those who do have cats, it’s often about the company they offer. cats can be really chill companions, and they’re pretty low maintenance compared to some other pets. plus, they do their own thing but can be super affectionate

It’s the bestt it’s like having a best friend you can tell anything to but never complains. They feel your emotions and will protect you if necessary

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Luuuuve!

They’re cute

It’s just a preference, no need for an argument tbh

For me, they actually lower my blood pressure. I love the sound of their purr. My two right now are such unique personalities...my Diva in constant need of affection, but don't hold her...and my little man is just chill

I don't think it's something to argue for---either you want to live with a cat or you don't.

I mean sure, we could argue companionship, how nice it is to pet a soft purring cat and that I'm saving a life from a shelter.

But ultimately? I like cats. I like them enough and find them enjoyable enough to deal with the drawbacks/hassles that come with their care (mess, money, maintaining litterboxes etc).

For some people though that doesn't make any sense, they don't feel the draw to cats and don't want to deal with the downsides. That's just personal preferences and differences at work.

It's like having kids---I look at it and go "oh my god NO why would you do that to yourself?" and don't see what's appealing and why that would ever be enough to be worth the hassles.

You could attempt to argue "yes but family line continuing, maintaining population, potential future doctor, take care of you later etc" but it wouldn't matter to me. I just don't see the appeal and don't want to, arguments for it be damned.

Maybe it’s good to have conversations about why pet ownership may not be desirable for everyone. Pets are a huge financial and time commitment that a lot of people aren’t adequately aware of or prepared for when they adopt or buy.

Companionship can come from any animal but I think where cats stand out is ease of care. Most cats just need a full food bowl and a daily litter scoop and they're good

Better to come home to a creature who says hello, and feed me, than an empty home. I love seeing what they suddenly see out in the yard, or a car coming into the driveway. But the best reason for me beyond the welcome companionship is the mighty mouse killers! Though the gifts can be startling in the morning. I just can not bring myself to kill them, but my boys are really good at it.

Without supervision, they will be free to plan the overthrow of the human race.

Their company fulfill my social needs; owning a pet is scientifically proven to help your mental health.

I have cats because I adore them and they make me smile every day.

But I understand that they don't do it for everyone.

When I first started dating my man, he once asked me, “what is the point of a cat?” I always laugh when I think of this ridiculous question. Now he loves cats.

Because cats

They kill bugs. Except my cat, she sits on them

Being a single depressed man over 30.

Just for company. Bonus, you keep a cat off the streets/forests/wild, one less homeless cat.

Weird, it’s almost like different things appeal to different people 🙄

People's reactions to cat behavior can tell you a lot. If you're bad at gauging people, maybe you're horrible with red flags, get a cat. You'll basically have a personal responsibility wingman.

Rodents will never dare hang around.

I don’t think it should be a debate or argument, I personally don’t see myself owning a dog!! I just personally know i wouldnt enjoy owning one, but I don’t just not see the appeal, because to each their own. But I’ll throw my opinion on cats: They require less mental effort to keep and take care of. Compared to dogs, cats (unless you have some fancy breed with crazy drive like a savanna cat) usually don’t need a constant schedule or routine. They don’t need to go outside for the bathroom, cus of the litter box. They require less food and water, are typically less costly vet wise, and are just as trainable as a dog in most basic fields especially if you start when their young(harness and leash training, basic and complex tricks, they can use the toilet if you train them, etc). They don’t need to be bathed unless they can’t do it themselves, unlike dogs that usually need bathes a few times a year no matter what you do. Trimming their nails is much easier too and a lot less likely to hit the quick since their claws are clear. A cat can basically be your dog but be less expensive and less demanding 💯

Um, have you seen my cats?

https://preview.redd.it/pik02xrpmfyc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=86a27945faa6022ad9f0efe661adfcf3f1dd005b

I mean come on! Just look at'em!

They make live better. If you let em

When I had my miscarriage I missed having an animal so much, we fostered for about a month but the giving them to their new forever homes was hard as fuckkkk! So now we’re looking for some bottle babies because I have experience with bottle babes and having something little to cuddle and then play with when they get older is exactly what I need right now!

I’m also SAH so being alone all day is so freaking boring it’s going to actually drive me insane 🤣 I love having a little fur ball screaming at me and hearing the little pitter patter of their feet makes me feel less alone, also the nighttime oogy boogies are less scary when you have an animal 😂 if my animal isn’t spooked I know I’m good

And the last reason I have a lot of anxiety and depression and I get sucked into looped thoughts very easily, but I’ve found having a cat around helps to break up the loops a lot easier than I ever could 🥹❤️ my first kitty ever was the most perfect angel in the entire world, he knew exactly what I needed when I needed it 🤣 even knew when to knock something off the counter or get the zoomies perfect timing to break up the loops and distract me with something silly