Why You Need a Cat

Happy End of Fall Break! Last Monday I had to stay home from work because of a plumbing leak, and Tuesday I got my wisdom teeth out, so spent all of both days just hanging out. I read some of my books, worked on some applications, did some writing, watched some movies and shows, and indulged in some Pinterest love. Sam and I thrifted a Christmas tree and little Mazikeen is o-b-s-e-s-s-e-d with it. I’ve never had a cat that was a Christmas Tree Cat before, and watching her huge eyes reflect the glittering warm glow of the lights is the most perfect image I’ve ever seen. Her small body has already messed up the tree limb organization and left behind some satisfyingly cat-sized holes. She’s the best thing I could’ve asked for this holiday season.

As I jump back into normal activities post-Thanksgiving break, I find myself sad to be leaving our little home. I usually hate being stuck in a house, but this one is truly starting to feel like ours. And I know it’s cheesy, but I’m so grateful for so many things right now, with Maz at the top of that list. She has brought closure, focus, play, and even more love into our little house-turning-into-home. With this in mind, my goal today is to convince you to get a cat.

Why Should I Get a Cat?

They’ll always keep you guessing
Your friends will want to come over just to see your cat
They’ll cuddle and purr and give head butts
They’ll steal food right off your plate
You’ll trip over them as they run directly in front of you
They’ll rip down your Christmas decorations
They’ll threaten your fish
They’ll tear up your furniture
They’ll come when called (if you’re lucky)
Cats are so incredibly soft
Toe beans
Every once in awhile you’ll get clawed in the crossfire of play (NEVER declaw a cat)
Contrary to some beliefs, cats get very excited to see you
In general, cats have very little daily maintenance
Watching them play is nonstop entertainment
Everyone loves cats (including some dogs, like Andi)
They come in cool colors
There are so many cats that need adopted all the time
They groom themselves when they get the zoomies, which is cute
Their pupils get huge and cartoonish

Now, some of those may seem like reasons to not get a cat, but I can assure you that is not the case. Every single one of these instances has brought with it an incalculable amount of joy and laughter (the fish is completely safe). On top of this incomplete list, I wanted to cover just a bit more, in case anyone isn’t convinced.

I Already Have a Cat, Do I Need Another?

When Suri passed, George didn’t seem to be too affected at the time. He became a bit lethargic but his overall demeanor and attitude didn’t change much, so with the intensity of my own pain and regret, I wasn’t in a hurry to get another cat. But George now? He’s a totally different cat. He still loves his sleep, but he’s a prolific player now. He and Maz sprint down the hallway together, wrestle, hunt and stalk each other, and cuddle. George appears so much livelier, more engaged in activities, and more interested in the world around him. He’s encouraged Maz to come out of her shell and she adjusted to our home so much faster than I anticipated. They’re a perfect match.

So get a cat. If you have a cat, get another cat. The joy and chaos and love they bring into a home is unmatched and is exactly what your life is missing.