As much as the literary world hates binaries, they do serve one very important purpose: to separate the weak, AKA dog lovers, from the strong, AKA cat lovers. Although dogs are cute and will love you unconditionally forever and ever, a cat's love is something you earn and is therefore much more valuable than anything a dog can slobber all over you.
But, enough with the og roasting. My dog is a fabulous companion and I am lucky to have her. And yet, I still am very much a cat person. It is hard to be a cat lover. Men are shamed for it because cats are "too feminine" and women are called "Crazy Cat Ladies." It is a tough road for those of us who adore the feline population. And, if you have ever owned a Cat you understand that cat's chose who they love.
1. Cats choose you
The day I found my cat Crouton, I stuck my hand in a box full of kittens and he climbed his way up my arm. He's terrorized me ever since but I know that deep down I am the chosen one and that makes me feel just a little bit better.
2. Cats know more about consent than most humans
A cat is very clear where their no-go zones are. They are also very verbal when they're unhappy. To be honest, we can learn a lot about relationships from how cats react to affection... just saying.
3. You exist to feed you cat
Everyone who owns a cat knows that cats are merciless when you are late to the feeding bowl. They moan, complain, pace, and do just about anything they can to look as miserable as possible. The guilt trip is very real.
4. Cats know a lot more about the world than we do
Humans are incredibly arrogant. We assume that because we speak words rather than sounds we know more than our four-legged friends. But that is simply not the case. Whenever I catch Crouton staring at something seemingly insignificant for hours on end, I watch my back. Because chances are there is a ghost or something I ain't messin' with over in that spot.
5. Researching cats is vastly interesting and never ending
Did you know that cats can only communicate with other cats that were raised in the same house as them? Otherwise, the meows don't make sense. Did you know that a cat's tail signifies how they are feeling? So, an upright tail usually means a cat is scared. Yeah... I bet you didn't. This 2 am research is paying off baby.
6. Cats are trained martial artists
I'm not saying you should practice tae-kwon-do with Fluffy. What I am saying is that cats can kick your ass and not think twice about it. They are fascinating little boogers.
7. Cats are the best snuggle-buddies
So, cats don't freely give their love. They don't snuggle with you every time you sit down. There's no such thing as a "lap cat". Cats let you hold them when they want you to. Cats grace you with their presence when they feel you've earned it. Cats fall asleep on you when you have proven time and time again how much you love them. But, when they do allow you to snuggle, it is the most amazing feeling because the love is astounding. The cats are so loving when they want to be. It almost makes up for the time they pooped in your shower (Looking at you, Crouton.)
8. Litter Boxes are the WORST
Crouton has switched over to an automatic litter box and it is probably the best decision I have ever made but MAN, litter boxes are brutal! They always smell and cats have no idea how to keep the litter in the actual box. It always feels like a sandy beach near the litter box and it always smells like poop. Honestly, I think it's the main reason people don't like cats. (Even though they're clearly wrong).
9. Staring into a cat's eyes is the most dangerous and majestic experience
Now, you can't say I didn't warn you but cats can either take you staring into their eyes as a sign of affection or a dare. They will either attack you or shower you with love. But, when you do get the rare opportunity to look into their eyes you can see just how glorious cats are. The amazing patterns of a cat's eye are mesmerizing. It is truly beautiful.
10. Cats will always be your best friend
Cats are always there for you. They know when to wipe your tears and snuggle with you. They know when you're sad or excited and they always share their love at just the right moment. You will never find a companion that is more consistent than cats and we will always be at their mercy. But, at the end of the day, you always know where you stand with them.