Cats often get a bad rap. Their independence is seen by some as uncaring and aloof. But cats are fascinating creatures capable of providing companionship and love. Owning a cat can even reduce your chance of having a heart attack. As with any pet, there are pros and cons to living with a cat. If you are considering bringing one into your home, there are several things to consider.

Cats are generally very low maintenance. Give them food, water, a litter box, and a warm spot in the sun and they’re usually happy to lounge around, often sleeping 13-14 hours each day. Many will spend at least some of those hours curled up in your lap. Petting cats has been proven to reduce stress and provide a calming effect. In addition to providing a calming influence in your home, cats are also highly entertaining to watch. The simplest object, such as a bottle cap or piece of string, can become the greatest toy in the world. That also means you don’t have to break the bank on manufactured toys. And, let’s face it, they’re super cute!

On the flip side of the coin are a few not so pleasant facts about living with cats to think about. Did you know cats are obligate carnivores? That means they must have meat in order to absorb the proper nutrients. Cat food will provide those nutrients but, if your cat spends time outdoors, he or she will most likely hunt small birds and rodents. Oftentimes, they’ll also bring their trophy home. Cats are also susceptible to hairballs from their nearly non-stop grooming and will vomit up the offending clump, sometimes on your floor or bed. Furniture and carpeting are prime “claw sharpening” tools and cats will leave their mark across your home. Finally, no discussion of pet ownership is complete without mentioning the cost. Cats do not require a lot of “supplies” but the costs of food and litter do add up over time. Vet visits, vaccinations, medication, and specialty care all have a price tag and are all important to keep in mind.

There are pros and cons to all pets and having a cat can be a rewarding and wonderful experience. If you think cat ownership is right for you and your family, there are many cats in need of homes. The ASPCA estimates there are 3.2 million cats in shelters across the United States. The Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region has cats of all ages available with a full listing on their website.