The Pet Report

The domesticated cat of today has become the pet of choice for millions of people around the world. In the USA alone, more than 30 million pet cats now overshadow the dog population by several million, with the gap increasing every day. For what reason has the household cat gained in popularity? What is it about this puzzling animal that appeals to so many of us?

One possible reason certainly has to be the inscrutable nature of the cat. Highly intelligent, it possess an exceptional amalgamation of personality traits not found in other houshold pets. Intriguing and quiet, self-sufficent amd poised, athletic and fastidious, the domestic cat is rarely needy. It appreciates company but is also content to pass the time alone for hours on end, making it an ideal pet for single people especially, let alone a family.

This autonomous trait, a result of cats in nature living a largely solitary life, gives the domestic feline a slightly cavalier attitude about life; for them, the sun does not rise and fall with people, although they will take us when they can get us, thank you very much.

The talent cats have to survive, with  or without the help of humans could just be one of the main reasons why we like them so much. Pets (or people) that are emotionallly needy tend to become increasingly irritating after some time; cats are alluring narcissists. This, combined with their beauty, grace, dignity, and ease of care, always makes them dsireable.

Humans also love cats because they say, ” we are your roommate, not your servant,” and for their capacity to recognize the value in taking a nap. And who does not appreciate the cat’s clean, fastidious nature and built-in toilet training? The best of luck to you in getting a Schnauzer puppy to use a litter tray!

There’s no doubt that cats enjoy all the attention we humans lavish upon them, though they will, given the chance, never confess it. They are perfectly happy to stay with us because we love them and provide for them, but if we vanished from the Earth anytime soon, chances are the cat would mourn somewaht, meow some, and then get on with the business of finding a furry morsel to eat - all the while mocking the millions of aimless, doleful dogs aimlessly wandering about, trying to gigure out what to do next.

If my life experience is anything to go by, closer bonds have been forged with a cat when an owner enables the cat to decide for itself when and where it wants affection from its owner. As my grandmother used to say: “You’ll never own a cat but one may choose to live with you”.