They say you’re either a dog person or a cat person, and if the latter, then these furry companions are loving, quirky, and sometimes downright puzzling. If you’re considering adopting one or just want to understand the behaviour of your own a little better, we’ve listed the 20 best and worst things about being a cat parent.
Cats Are Excellent Companions
One of the greatest joys of having a cat is the companionship they offer and knowing you’ll be coming home to a furry friend waiting (or pretending not to wait) for you. Cats may not be as overtly affectionate as dogs, but when they curl up next to you on the sofa or nuzzle your face, it feels like you’ve earned their trust.
Litter Box Maintenance Is No One’s Favourite Job
The not-so-glamorous part of feline ownership is dealing with their litter box, as it’s never a task anyone looks forward to, but it’s part of the deal. Cleaning it regularly is essential to keep odours at bay and ensure your cat is happy since they can be particular about cleanliness.
They’re Low-Maintenance Pets
Unlike dogs, which require daily walks and constant attention, cats are marvellously self-sufficient. They can entertain themselves for hours with a stray hair tie or a patch of sunlight, they groom themselves meticulously, eat when they’re hungry, and are perfectly content lounging around while you work or run errands.
Claws Can Be Destructive
If you’ve ever owned a cat, you know the battle between their scratching instincts and your furniture is very real, even with scratching posts and deterrents, because some cats just can’t resist the allure of a sofa arm.
Scratching is their way of marking territory and keeping their claws healthy—but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating.
Cats Are Master Entertainers
Few things are as funny as a kitten being their weird self, like squeezing into a box three sizes too small, leaping acrobatically to catch a toy, or getting the “zoomies” at 2 a.m.—cats know how to keep you laughing. They also have an uncanny ability to surprise you with their antics to keep you on your toes.
Hairballs Are Gross
Let’s not sugarcoat it: hairballs are disgusting. The sound of your furry friend hacking one up, usually in the worst possible place, like your carpet or, heaven forbid, your bed, is something to dread, and while brushing your cat regularly can help reduce the problem, hairballs are a reality that isn’t going away.
Cats Are Great for Mental Health
Having a kitty can do wonders for your mental well-being thanks to their soothing presence and their rhythmic purring, and they have a way of grounding you, reminding you to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life. Stroking a cat has even been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce stress, making them natural mood boosters.
They Can Be Standoffish
While their independence is admirable, it can sometimes feel like you’re living with a moody roommate rather than a pet.
That said, when a cat chooses to shower you with affection, it feels all the more special because they aren’t always the easiest creatures to win over, and that’s part of their charm.
Pest Control
Even the laziest-looking indoor cat can transform into a stealthy predator when a bug or rodent catches their eye, and yes, it might be unsettling to find a “gift” on your doorstep or floor, yet their ability to keep pests at bay is undeniably useful. It’s like having a furry exterminator on call.
Nighttime Activity Can Be Annoying
Naturally crepuscular, your feline friend will be most active at dawn and dusk—and unfortunately, that often translates to chaos when you’re trying to sleep. This could be them batting noisy toys around or sprinting across the room for no apparent reason—they have a knack for disrupting your peace at night.
Cats Are Clean Animals
The fastidious grooming habits of cats help reduce odour, and their litter-training abilities make accidents rare; however, their self-cleaning routine comes with a trade-off—fur everywhere. Even though they clean themselves, their shedding can take over your furniture, clothing, and any dark fabrics they decide to lounge on.
Allergies Can Be a Problem
If you or someone in your household suffers from allergies, having a cat can be a real challenge thanks to cat dander (not their fur), which is often the culprit, and it’s nearly impossible to avoid once a cat moves in. Regular cleaning, air purifiers, and hypoallergenic cat breeds can help, but for some people, the symptoms can make cohabiting with a cat downright miserable.
These Pets Love Personal Space
The ultimate introverts, cats enjoy your company but need their alone time, and this balance makes them wonderful companions for people who appreciate independence. They may turn their nose up at cuddles or leave the room if they feel smothered, though, which could also be a downside for someone who wants a cuddle monster.
Petcare Bills Add Up
Routine check-ups, vaccinations, and flea treatments are essential, but unexpected illnesses or emergencies can be a financial strain, and while pet insurance can help offset some of the costs, it doesn’t cover everything.
Even with a healthy cat, the cost of keeping them well-fed, entertained, and in good health can surprise new owners.
Cats Form Unique Bonds
One of the most rewarding things about having a feline companion is the bond you form with them, thanks to the fact they have distinct personalities, and no two are alike. Some are cuddly lap-seekers, while others are playful and mischievous, and over time, you learn their preferences and the way they communicate with you.
They Love to Knock Things Over
It’s easy to laugh at videos of other people’s cats causing chaos, yet it’s far less funny when your own pet sends a fragile item crashing to the floor. To a cat, it’s all part of their play—and maybe a little attention-seeking, too—because cats have an innate curiosity that leads to them batting objects off tables and shelves.
Cats Are Quiet Pets
One of the underrated perks of having a cat is how quiet they are. They don’t bark at the doorbell or howl when they want attention. Instead, they communicate in softer ways—gentle meows, contented purring, and sometimes an inquisitive chirp.
Even when they’re energetic, they’re far less noisy than many other pets, making them ideal for those who value peace and quiet. That said, some cats do have surprisingly loud opinions, particularly around feeding time, but it’s nothing compared to the racket a dog can make.
Trips to the Vet Can Be Stressful
Have you ever tried to coax a reluctant cat into a carrier? Then you know the struggle is real, owing to the reality that many cats loathe vet visits, and the entire ordeal—including car rides and waiting rooms—can be an anxiety-inducing event for both of you, and they might even refuse to come out of the carrier altogether.
Cats Teach Responsibility
A wonderful way to learn responsibility is to own a pet cat, whether it’s your first one or your tenth. They rely on you for food, care, and attention, but in return, they teach you about patience and unconditional love, whilst not being as demanding as some other pets can be.
They Can Be Escape Artists
Keeping a cat safe requires constant vigilance, and indoor-only cats in particular need plenty of enrichment to keep their instincts satisfied. Once outside, outdoor cats may explore for hours or even get lost, causing stress for their owners, but despite their knack for escape, their adventurous spirit is part of what makes them so fascinating.