Now this may be very biased; I am warning you. Coming from an anxiety ridden college student who is already a crazy cat lady, going off to college without an animal was an extremely difficult challenge. I was lucky enough to spend most of my second semester of freshman year with a cat, and let me tell you: it made a HUGE difference.
1. Your bed will never be lonely
The social life may not be for everyone, and in some cases, the social life may be the sole purpose you are happy. Either way, coming home after a long day and having a soft, furry animal to cuddle up to you is the best way to end your night. And guess what? You'll be waking up next to them too. Who needs a boyfriend, am I right?
2. They don't talk back
One of the best things about having an animal companion is that you can tell them anything, and they can't talk back! It is like having a best friend who keeps every secret, and involuntarily supports you in every decision you make!
3. Emotional Support
My freshman year of college, I met my cat at the humane society and fell in love. I knew I had to get this cat. Luckily, I was a perfect candidate to be approved for an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). I had the opportunity to adopt Olive and keep her in my dorm. I had no idea that my anxiety could be tamed all due to having my furry companion. 10/10 would recommend.
4. It actually makes you more social
This picture shows a few friendships that got a lot tighter after I gained the friendship of my Olive. Before I had my cat in college, I spent a lot of my time in my room and I was tired of the social scene. The type of anxiety I was diagnosed with is social anxiety, so I know I showed characteristics of being a mild recluse. After gaining the emotional support from Olive, I found myself more willing to go out, hangout with my friends, and I was more eager to go to class (which is a very important component of college).
5. They make you giggle with their personalities
We all know every animal has their own personality, I cannot tell you how many pictures on my phone I have of my cat. We have photoshoots all the time (LOL). Cats can do funny things and its even better when you catch it on camera!
6. You'll always have someone when you're not feeling well
Have you ever been sick as a dog and wished you had someone? Have you ever cried and wished there was something to make you feel better? The only downside is that cats can't bring you soup, but I believe cats have some sort of intuition to cuddle even closer when you're sick. They can sense something is wrong; Olive never leaves my side if i'm sick, hurt, or crying. It truly makes a difference to have this type of relationship.
7. You'll be provided help even when you don't need it
There's something about homework that makes kitties want to jump on board, literally. I cannot express how many times Olive has jumped at the opportunity to keep my laptop warm while i'm trying to do homework. This just shows the generosity that our furry friends want to provide us.
Now I know some people prefer cats over dogs, or reptiles over anything furry; whatever your preference is, having that companionship could change your life.
