If you look at history, cats and people clearly belong together. In 1984, an Italian semiotician named Paolo Fabbri had an exciting idea: breed cats that change color when close to radiation (feel free to go down that rabbit hole in a moment). Professor Fabbri observed that cats were a constant throughout the rising and falling of civilizations. Humans and cats have been buddies for millennia. F.Cabelo (2019) speaks of how cats evolved with humans in Africa thousands of years ago and eventually spread with their human counterparts to other continents.

Here are just a few of the amazing benefits of growing up with a cat:

Low Maintenance

Cats are low maintenance, meaning they are easy pets to care for – this makes them ideal for children of all ages! The daily tasks of feeding, cleaning the litter tray and brushing are a great way to introduce your kids to the world of responsibility without overwhelming them. My kids helped with feeding pets at age four and started to take care of the sanitary side of things a couple of years later.

Emotional Support

Contrary to popular belief, cats can actually be affectionate and caring creatures. Pebbles, my 12-year-old cat, and my older son share a deep, emotional bond. They keep great company and can be very empathic towards each other. When she lived with me, Pebbles followed me to every room and gave me special attention whenever I was low.

Beautiful Creatures

Cats are stunning and are (essentially) part of the home decor. I see them as moving decorations. Their elegance is undisputed, and they maintain a level of dignity seldom found in other animals.

Entertaining

Cats love to play! Rufus, an Abyssinian who is no longer with us, even managed to learn a few tricks. For example, he learned to open doors, turn on taps and was potty trained faster than my kids! Pebbles liked to play fetch when she was younger and still plays with my sons from time to time. These play sessions are a good cure for boredom and an alternative to digital entertainment.

Convenient

Cats a VERY quiet. Not only do they not bark, but they can walk without making a sound. Staying indoors is not an issue for them, and they sleep a copious amount of hours. This makes them ideal for smaller houses or even apartments. 

Growing up with a pet can be great for kids. Given that cats are easy on the eye, caring, funny and low maintenance, they make for the perfect companion for kids to grow up with.

If you or anyone else in your home is allergic to cats, consider looking at hypoallergenic cats! 

Stefano Ceppi

Neurodivergent father of two, and here to share what I've learned thus far! Qualified 200h RYT, AIMS Global Level 1 Mentor.