Reason #4: Cats teach us empathy
Cats get a bad rep for being selfish and self centered. Cats are actually very empathetic and loyal creatures and can sense when someone needs comfort. Think of a time you’ve been ill, or sad, or maybe just plain exhausted. Quite often you’ll find that your cat will climb up and lay on you. It senses your distress and seeks to comfort.
Some research suggests that kids who have cats (and dogs) often become more nurturing, giving adults — perhaps because they learn from a young age that all living creatures need comfort and feel pain. But even people who bring home their first pet as an adult tend to develop a stronger sense of empathy, thanks to their furry friend.
“Taking care of an animal reminds you that all humans and animals have needs that may eclipse your own, and you’re able to see things from others’ point of view. That helps you become more caring and compassionate,” says Dr. David Niven, a psychologist and social scientist.
They purr to indicate their feelings – maybe if people would communicate better and show appreciation more we’d have a better world
AMEN1!!
They have so much patience unlike too many people I know. Cats are the zen masters of the animal world.
They love to nap just like me! 🙂
Cats love us uncontionally
ANOTHER AMEN Actually prefer cats over people, purest love
They always land on their feet! A good motto to live by.
Cats teach us to be independent and not just follow what others are doing.
My cat makes me smile everytime I hold him. Especially after a bad day at work
They comfort you when you are sad and unhappy, and weary or tired. They show you the way to relax, which a lot of us forgot in our rush to continue competitively in our “rat race” society.
I read somewhere that cats are 2nd only to chimpanzees in mammal intelligence so I say because they are SMART!
They teach us what the meaning of healthy boundaries is: self-love and love for others in equal measures, neither one yielding to the other. Persistence is rewarded and opportunities are certainly exploited, but no means no. Purty please.
I tend to judge a person by whether or not they like cats. I have a mistrust of those who don’t like them which I just can’t shift.