Cats and People: Comfortable Friends
The cat makes a delightful pet. Although very independent and requiring little care, a cat offers wonderful companionship in any type of environment, from high-rise apartment to country estate. And companionship is the major reason why people own cats. Despite their independence, cfats are highly affectionate and love to be petted, stroked, and fondled. They take care of themselves with the utmost skill and are highly entertaining. It's a lot of fun to watch a cat as he investigate sounds and movements. Because cats are so adaptable,and easy to care for, they make ideal pets for bedridden or elderly people who would be unable to provide the care and exercise needed by a dog.
Also, it has been scientifically proven that owning a pet is good for you. After generations of taking the complex human/animal relationship for granted, scientists are now documenting the beneficial effects of pet ownership.
As a result of scientific research, there is now medical evidence to prove that the company of a cat can do some people more good than sophisticated medications. Scientists have discovered that Americans who own a pet live longer than those who don't, and that in the act of petting a cat a person's blood pressure drops.
Remember that owning a cat is a long-term commitment. A healthy cat may well live 15 years or more. So that adorable kitten playing with the kids will still be around when the kids are in college or off on their own. And he'll still be your responsibility.
