9 Reasons Why Cats Make Great Pets

With their unconditional love, fierce loyalty and endless entertainment, it’s no wonder cats are quickly becoming Ireland’s favourite pet.

Sure, they can be up to no good at times; they might love to stretch across your laptop while you’re trying to work or enjoy knocking things off the counter just because they feel like it, but that’s just part of their charm-and one of the main reasons we love them so much.

Any cat parent will tell you just how much their feline friend helps them to relax and unwind at the end of the day. While many people might prefer playing with their dog or taking them out for a walk,  owning cats can be more of an acquired taste—but once acquired, it’s not an easy taste to lose!

We could list a hundred different reasons why cats make great pets-but just like the number of lives they have, we’ll show you are top 9 reasons why we love cats!

1. They are Independent

As much as they love to cuddle, they also love to be left alone, which is what makes them so independent. A cat will be there for you when you need them, but they’re also pretty proficient at entertaining themselves. This makes them ideal pets for older people, people who work long hours, or those in a smaller living space.

2. They have Long Lives

When it comes to house pets, cats have quite a long life expectancy. While it’s very sad that, despite their 9 lives, they won’t live forever, it gives comfort knowing that they will be around for a long time. Cats have an average life-span of twelve years but can live up to over 20 years in some cases.

3. They are Low Maintenance

Compared to dogs, our feline companions are require much less maintenance. They don’t require daily walks or frequent trips to the groomers. They are perfectly happy to play indoors and enjoy spending large amounts of time on their own throughout the day. No need to take them outside for a potty break either, as they can use their litter box. Cats are also perfect for those who live in apartments in the city. They don’t require a whole lot of space to play and explore, and instead enjoy nosing their way around your home.

4. They are Entertaining

Cats love to play, and boy are they adorable when they do! These playful creatures will not only melt your heart but keep you entertained too. Whether they’re playing with some string, going crazy over some catnip or chasing a laser around the house, there’s no doubt they’ll put a smile on your face every time.

5. They Prevent Pests

It’s no secret cats love to hunt, and while the occasional dead bird proudly dropped at your feet may not sound appealing, they are great at keeping pests at bay, such as bugs, spiders, mice and flies. Fluffy and deadly, your cat will exterminate all household threats while looking adorable at the same time!

6. The Groom Themselves

If you like your space to be kept tidy, then cats are your perfect companion. They’re also like their space to kept tidy and care about personal hygiene more than most animals. Cats constantly groom and clean themselves, saving you the hassle. This doesn’t mean you won’t ever have to intervene-long haired cats can get tangles and mats so it is important to brush their hair regularly. However, when  compared to grooming dogs, cats certainly win out here.

7. They can be House Trained

One of the main challenges that face new dog owners is the prospect of house-training; especially puppies. Kittens, on the other hand, often already know how to use the litter box as soon as you bring them home. Young kittens would have learned how to use a litter box by watching their mother, and even if they haven’t, cats are very smart and tend to learn new things very quickly!

8. They are Good for Your Health

Cats simply make you healthier and happier. They can help lower your blood pressure, reduce risks of heart attacks and strokes, help improve your mood and depression.  Studies also show that a cat’s purr can calm your nervous system and lower your blood pressure. Having a furry feline as a companion is quite literally good for your heart.

9. They are So Cute

Need we say more?