Paul has lived with cats on and off for many years. He understands the positives but also the potential negatives.

Pet Cats: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

They may be the world's most popular pet, but our furry feline friends have plenty of downsides. Whether it's the vomited fur-balls on the carpet, the stinky litter tray, the clawed and shredded furniture, or the slaughtered neighborhood population of small birds and mammals, cats have a lot to answer for.

I'm not saying they can't be great pets, but as with most things, their "good" comes with a "bad" and an "ugly." Check out the 15 negative aspects of cat ownership below. Each one is expanded upon in the following sections.

The Negatives of Having a Pet Cat

1. Aloofness
2. Litter-Box Problems
3. Fleas
4. Clawed and Hairy Furniture
5. Expensive Vet Fees
6. Travel Difficulties
7. Allergies
8. Dead Birds and Mice
9. Training Difficulties
10. Vomit and Hairballs
11. Disrupted Sleep
12. Scratches
13. Cat Hair
14. Letting Them in and Out
15. Weirdness

I will explain each disadvantage in more detail below.

1. Aloofness

Yes, they can sometimes be affectionate, but it's always on their own terms, and they mainly see you as a servant. A dog, on the other hand, is almost always pleased to see you and may even look up to you.

While cats may have dogs beat in terms of coolness and style, their loyalty levels don't compare. If you're looking for a guaranteed companion animal that will cherish your presence through thick and thin, a cat might be a risky bet.

2. Litter-Box Issues

Cat poop and pee are disgusting. The worst part is that most cats do their business inside your home, hence the need for a litter box. In my opinion, changing the litter box is one of the most stomach-turning chores ever. While picking up after a dog on a walk isn't ideal, I'd take it over litter-box duty any day.

3. Fleas

All a cat needs to contract fleas is contact with another animal. Once fleas are confirmed, it's not just the feline that you have to treat—your house and all of its contents can harbor fleas and their eggs as well.

Flea eradication is time-consuming and expensive, and it doesn't always work. This is a major problem that many cat parents have to deal with more than once over the course of their pets' lives.

4. Clawed and Hairy Furniture

Cats will shred your furniture. Your expensive couch is just a scratching post to them, and it will end up in tatters. When your cat isn't abusing your furniture, you can bet they're at least shedding all over it. Get ready for cat hair to become a constant and pervasive nuisance in your home. Lint rollers aren't so cheap when you have to buy a new one every week!

Owners of dogs will have noticed that, if you provide them with food and water and shelter and affection, they will think you are god. Whereas owners of cats are compelled to realize that, if you provide them with food and water and shelter and affection, they draw the conclusion that they are gods.

— Christopher Hitchens

5. Hefty Vet Fees

Veterinary bills can cost you a small fortune if your feline falls ill. If nothing is particularly wrong with your cat, expect the cost of your annual vet care to hover somewhere between $90 and $200. As soon as an unanticipated medical issue pops up, however, don't be surprised if you see that number more than triple in a single visit.

If you don't have plenty of extra income after basic necessities like food, rent, and transportation are covered, adding a cat to your household could be a risky move financially. Consider both upfront and future costs when adopting an animal.

6. Traveling Difficulties

Cats are poor travelers. They are fine on their own for a weekend, but spend any more time away from home, and you will need to pay for a cat sitter.

If you do elect to take your feline friend with you on a trip of some kind, anticipate complications. Cats do not take kindly to being confined in new areas, and most do not react well to being on-leash. Even a trip to the local vet can be fraught and difficult.

7. Allergies

Cat allergies are a relatively common condition. In the United States, up to 30 percent of the population experiences allergic reactions to cats. They may or may not affect you, but they can be a real issue if you want to invite friends or relatives over to your home. Cat phobia is less common but may also interfere with your social plans.

8. Dead Birds and Mice

Cats are natural-born killers. They are programmed by nature to hunt—even if they have a full belly and aren't hungry. Populations of birds, small mammals, and other local wildlife can be decimated by the presence of cats. One study estimated that cats are responsible for the deaths of billions of mice, birds, and other small animals in the United States each year.

9. Training Woes

Cats are self-willed and sometimes impossible to train. Unlike dogs, felines will not obey orders or even bother to acknowledge them most of the time. That does not mean, however, that they won't give orders. Some cats are more vocal than others, but you can expect to hear from them periodically any time they desire something you can provide (e.g. food, going out, coming in).

10. Vomit and Hairballs

Cats vomit regularly. Sometimes it is caused by hairballs, sometimes illness, and sometimes you simply just don't know. It doesn't matter—whatever the cause, you still have to clean up the vomit.

Watching and hearing a cat dislodge a hairball is a frighteningly odd experience. from the wretching sounds to the expulsion of the hairball, it is like something out of a sci-fi movie. Prepare to be disturbed.

11. Disrupted Sleep

Cats sleep most of the day, but they hate the idea of their owner getting any rest. They will walk all over you in bed, knead your chest, purr in your face, and tickle your nose with their whiskers and tail—usually to demand feeding or attention. It's quite annoying, and in many cases, quite unavoidable.

Cats themselves usually sleep somewhere between 16 and 20 hours a day depending on their age. Unlike humans, however, they remain alert during their resting periods and are fully operational almost instantaneously if awoken.

12. Scratches

In addition to scratching up all your furniture, your cat will likely scratch you up, too. Often, it is accidental, such as when they jump onto or off your lap. Other times, they may suddenly get annoyed because you are stroking their belly wrong or something surprises them. They're even more likely to turn on your guests or other folks they don't know as well. Those little claws are sharp!

The problem with cats is that they get the exact same look on their face whether they see a moth or an axe-murderer.

— Paula Poundstone

13. Cat Hair

Cats shed a lot of hair, and it gets everywhere. Before you know it, there will be hair on your clothes, furniture, floor, and just about every other surface. Yes, you can comb your cat, but the impact on the problem will be sadly limited. If you add a cat to your household, get used to vacuuming regularly!

14. Constant In and Out

That going outside and coming back inside thing gets old fast. They whine at you like they are desperate to be let out. Two minutes later, they want to come back in. Then they want to go out again. I don't understand what it's all about, but it's certainly irritating. If you have ever worked as a doorman, your experience will serve you well in your cat ownership.

15. Weirdness

Cats are just plain weird. There are reasons why the ancient Egyptians worshiped them as supernatural gods and European folklorists associated them with witchcraft. Felines are so strange that we may never understand their ways.

In ancient Egypt, cats were sometimes mummified after death because they were perceived as incarnations of the gods. There were severe penalties for injuring them. Keep an eye on your cat, and you'll begin to notice some odd behavior.

You have to be very insensitive in order to have a cat, because I think they're very independent. When they're kittens, you think they're going to have a dog temperament in that they're going to run to the door when you get home, lick you on the face and cuddle with you all the time, but cats are not that way.

— Jennifer Love Hewitt

Fun Facts About Cats

• A group of cats is called a clowder.
• A group of kittens is called a kindle.
• Cats are crepuscular rather than nocturnal or diurnal. That means that they are most active and do their hunting around dawn and dusk rather than during the night or day.
• Male cats are called toms, while females are called mollies or queens.
• Female cats usually sleep more than males in the wild, mainly because they do most of the hunting.
• They can run up to 30 miles per hour.
• They have excellent vision in low light, but cannot see in complete darkness.
• They sweat through their paws.

This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

Questions & Answers

Question: How long do pet cats live?

Answer: Average life expectancy for a domesticated feline is between 10 and 15 years. In general, cats who spend a lot of unsupervised time outdoors don't live as long as indoor cats, who face less dangers.

© 2017 Paul Goodman

Comments

Sandra Yates on September 07, 2020:

Well all I have to say to your 15 reason not to have a cat is you never been loved by one which makes me feel sorry for you

Jim Fist on September 07, 2020:

Rubbish article

Suzan on September 05, 2020:

I have 3 cats that are Awesome! One is black that I named Angel Pearl! No pet is perfect but I wouldn't trade them for anything! Their Love is unconditional

Diane on September 05, 2020:

That’s your opinion cats are not for everybody ....just like dogs aren’t either I wouldn’t have a little slap me dog for anything all they do is bark and shake when something moves or when friends come over and they don’t shut up. And dogs are harder to potty train. And my cats are lap kitties always wanting on my lap.

luke on September 04, 2020:

this is the stupidest thing I've ever read lol.

Diane berg on September 02, 2020:

You are full of it. They are the best!!

Beverly Clark on September 01, 2020:

I Totally Disagree with this Post! I have a cat now that i Rescued about 8 months ago when he was already a year & 7months old. He has his claws, Does Not scratch my carpet Or furniture. He isn't allowed on my tables &/or counters (although I'm not stupid, I'm sure he may do it when I'm not home). He Does Greet me @ the door. & unlike my last sweet kitty, who occasionally threw up an occasional hairball, this one has not gotten sick one single time ...yet. He knows his name (Keeper) & comes when I call him. He, also like my other kitty, loves his belly rubbed! All of these things Are Strange for a cat but they aren't All Aloof & they Don't All think They are Gods! Mine knew & know that I Am the Boss! They knew/know what "No" means!

The last one I had was Thee Best Pet/Animal that Anyone could Ever ask for! He Rescued me a little over 18 years ago. He was about 7months old? He most Definitely was a Dog trapped in a Cat's body! He was friendly, playful & obedient. He ate the strangest things. Oranges, pineapple, chips, avacado, green beans (cooked or rt o/of the can). Cantelope was his Very Favorite! He also liked watermelon & soooo soooo many other things. He loved to be carried around like a baby, loved his belly rubbed, chased his tail like a dog. He was Freakin Awesomely Amazing! So Don't state your opinion as "facts". You have No Idea!

Unfortunately, he was misdiagnosed (for a lack of a better explanation) by not one but 2 IDIOT Veterinarians & died probably @ least 3-5 years before he should have. & He suffered when he shouldn't have. I will Never Ever Forgive myself for that. I learned a Very Hard Unnecessary Lesson. More to the story but that's enough in a nutshell.

Luckily, neither of my cats were/are "smelly" cats. I could/can leave them for a wknd...Can't Do That With a Dog! Js....(& just for the record, I Love Dogs, as well. Im just not home enough to have one). The cat hair is the Only Thing you mentioned that I agree with. Dogs also shed, so....

You haven't been around the "right" Cats. You seem to have only been around the ones that give Cats a bad name....the reason Many people think they Don't Like them. True Story

May on September 01, 2020:

You definitely hate cats!! How about making one for all pets, they all have the good and bad.

Patricia on September 01, 2020:

This is complete BS

Anonymous on September 01, 2020:

You should be ashamed of yourself putting an article like this out to a world that already views cats as worthless. There are people that torture them, beat them, use them as fishing bait. Why not use your blogging abilities for good and advocate for creatures rather than give unstable people more of a reason to justify hurting animals. Use your head for heaven’s sake!

Peter Clark on August 31, 2020:

Just because you have problems with cat's stop putting down about them , there are a lot of people that live alot worse than animals and pets . I love to have pet cats around the home even dog's so get a life and stop things like this because of little things that little things

anonymous on August 30, 2020:

Sandra Kandles is right!

if you think about the positive ones,they are over 25!

i like all pets,cats,dogs,birds and fishes.

but cats are the best of all if you don't like cats then just play minecraft or anything else!

Donna marie Parker on August 30, 2020:

I have seven cats and they are all the most affectionate animals I have ever known. Far beyond the affection of a human being. This article is Ludacris 0 validity. Don't let this writer have a cat ever. My cats fight over getting on my lap and giving me affection so this is the most ridiculous article I have ever read. Consider it spam

Sandra Kandles on August 30, 2020:

Bullshit attitude about cats!

Much less work than a dog or a baby.

Just choose the pet you enjoy without trashing the others!!

TLC on August 30, 2020:

Thank goodness we don’t live in North Korea where all pets have been banned by the dictator. We have the freedom to choose our favorite pets in the USA. Humans aren’t perfect and neither are pets but we still love our pets anyway.

DCS62 on August 30, 2020:

Oh yeah, also, dogs are poop eaters! LOL. Truth! I have seen many dogs eat their own poop and eat turds out of kitty litter boxes. Cats can also be trained to leash walk. Man, you are so wrong in everything you said and you are stupid as is anyone who puts down cats!

DCS62 on August 30, 2020:

Cats are wonderful! I prefer them to dogs any day! You can't and shouldn't compare cats to dogs. They are two totally different species. But, just so you know, I have a cat who loves to play fetch with a ball and loves to sit on our laps and cuddle! When I am not at home, both of my cats look for me, carrying toys around and crying - my husband has told me so. Dogs are okay if you want something slobbery, noisy, stinky (especially when they get wet) and totally needy! What you call "aloofness" in a cat is just independence. They had to hunt in the wild and fend for themselves prior to being domesticated and ferals still do. To each their own, but stop being so negative about cats. What you wrote is simply not true! As for fleas...Never had a flea in my house from a cat, but my cats stay indoors. You do know dogs can have fleas also, right??? Plus, vets sell topical and oral meds for fleas, ticks and other parasites, and heart worms are rare in cats, but quite common in dogs. So just stop with the negative cat B.S.

Lisa on August 28, 2020:

This article is ridiculous hear it. I have had cats all my life. Never had issues. You need to spend time just like you would with a dog. no patience Will get you nowhere.

Kkhhkdo on August 28, 2020:

This should had been written by someone who actually loves cats not someone who just wanted to push their dog agenda on us. I enjoy every moment with my cat an the thing Jennifer Hewitt said You have to be very insensitive in order to have a cat, because I think they're very independent. When they're kittens, you think they're going to have a dog temperament in that they're going to run to the door when you get home, lick you on the face and cuddle with you all the time, but cats are not that way.

— Jennifer Love Hewitt

I feel sorry for her because every time I come home my cat is at the door waiting for me to pick her up so she can lick my face. I love my cat.

A Anderson on August 28, 2020:

This is information is silly and a lot of the “downsides” can be said about dogs.

Jennine on August 28, 2020:

Your a car hater!!!

I’ve had cats since I was 12 years old and I absolutely love them....

Cats will make you laugh every single day....

Christy cernek on August 27, 2020:

I am just ashamed that you would be able to write such an awful article about cats. I have had cats for over 25 yrs and absolutely love them. If you fet them at a young age, you can teach them nit to scratch on the furniture or other places.. Hell thats what they make scratching posts and othet things for them. They r by far always there for u when u need them or they need u. I just live to listen to them purr and love all over you. They may have some pros and cons about them. But if you dont like them just dont fet them. You dont need one...plan and simple

Robin P Mayer on August 27, 2020:

All lies about cats. You can train a cat. CATS can protect you. By the way dogs have fleas some people are allegy to them. DOGS are not for everyone. I beleive a dog or cat is best suit to a person by their life style and their character. I. Fact i have cat that walks on a lease enjoys being with me waits for me to come to say cat is bad pet is incrrect.

Mia Sciandra on August 27, 2020:

I am a cat and dog person. I have had mostly cats and they have ALL BEEN LOVE BUGS. It is how you raise them. You are an ass and do not assume every cat is the same.

Just on August 27, 2020:

Balls, there is nothing but positivity in having a cat.

Renee on August 27, 2020:

All pets comes with good and bad. Tbe fact that this post is is listing the downfalls that can easily be avoided by proper care for the animal. Such as fleas, the slaughtering of birds ( as they shouldnt be outside anyway) smelly litter and behavioral problems are all preventable. A cat has many more pros than cons. And so many homeless cats are waiting for a loving home to go to. This article is nothong more than a few basic facts that a proper pet owner would not even have to experience

Told you. on August 25, 2020:

You have to be just a plain unhappy person to say negative things about cats.

You clearly no nothing about cats or how great they are as companions.

Michael P Erving on August 25, 2020:

All of your reasons are stupid. You can say most of the same stuff for a dog.vyou know what's weird? YOU!

Sz.s on August 22, 2020:

It's kind of sad that you hate cats so much you feel the need to spread misinformation about them in order to deter people from getting a cat as their pet.

CrazyCatGuy on August 22, 2020:

Reasons you should get a cat

1. They come potty trained

unlike a dog, you dont have to potty train a cat... you dont have to clean poop and piss of a kitten. All around the house like you would for a puppy.

2. They are low maintenance.

Even with a very high maintenance persian cat, i only spend a max of 15 minutes grooming and attending him. They dont have a constant need for attention or exercise.

3. They can be trained.

My cat doesnt scartch or claw the furnitures because they have their own things for that. He also doesnt take his claws out anymore so we dont even cut his nails.

4. They show you affection making you feel as loved as a dog may make you feel.

5. Whiskers tickling and waking me up is much better than being drooled in your dogs licks.

6. Hairy dogs shed as much as hairy cats.

7. Cats dont leave the house as smelly as a dog does.

8. Dogs get fleas too and get them more because they go out more.

9. Cats actually dont go out as much. Most cats are kept as indoor pets only. So the chances of hurting birds and rats are pretty low so is getting fleas from another animal because you dont have to take them to a dog park.

10. Both cats and dogs may have vet fee.. but its a lot cheaper and easier to get a cat fixed.

You have no idea about cats or dogs and should not be writing on this site.

The Blarney Stone on August 22, 2020:

I have cats and dogs each with their own personality. Dogs have their plus and negative points including enormous smelly poo! Cats on the other hand are cleaner and bury their business either in their indoor tray (NO SMELL) or outside. My cats are always cleaning themselves and me! I get a good wash before settling down for a sleep on my knees. My dogs give an affectionate lick but my cats groom me!

My cat loves lying between my legs on my bed and is quite happy to sleep for hours. My dogs are the ones that won’t keep still!

My dogs tolerate the cats who go walks with the dogs and just like the cats they have a natural desire to chase/kill other animals! My dogs have killed birds that got into their pens and would savage a rabbit or on one occasion a stray sheep which I managed to save. Stupid article

Catman on August 22, 2020:

15. Weirdness. This guy knows nothing about Cats.

Lo Serambula on August 10, 2020:

Dude...are you serious? Cats are some of the most amazing creatures in the world. Not all cats are like what youve just said and usually, they dont have ALL the problems you mentioned only one or two. While dogs on the other hand....

Pam j on August 03, 2020:

Man you are dumb carts are the best dont bash them just cause you dont like them they wouldnt want you for there friend either

Alan G on August 01, 2020:

I have had cats my whole life. Dogs too.

Loved them all. Anytime I hear someone bashing cats I always say

"Cats are poeple to "

Each one is as different as all of us.

Most of our cats were nothing like this article.

But.......

My current cat is 17 years old. We have had her for 15 years. Love her like one of the kids.

But she is a 99% fit to this article.

Well she has never had many flee's.

The rest pretty much right on.

But when shes in the mood, shes the most lovable pet. I'll cleanup hairballs and let her in and out every hour just because she's worth it. I cleaned vomit and let the dogs in and out to. Their all family. I cleaned rough messes behind kids and grand kids to.

Their worth it if you love them.

Jamie on August 01, 2020:

the writer doesn't know anything my cat is always happy to see me and she knows how to use the bathroom toilet and flush the toilet handle

Dave on July 30, 2020:

My cat nos every thing you say he loves been out side comes in back only meets you runs down path when here's the car he nos its us at car door walks all a cross fields at your side no lead stays with you he's brilliant

Mark on July 30, 2020:

Trolling right? Half these disadvantages also apply to other pets and you’ve clearly never owned a cat in your life if you think the rest is true. Utter rubbish.

Kate on July 30, 2020:

Wow. What a load of rubbish. Cats are amazing creatures and fascinating pets. They can be trained, if you have the patience. Mine will sit and give me a high five when asked. He doesn't scratch me or my furniture. He loves a cuddle and is always waiting for me when I get home just as intuitively as any dog.

Zelda allison on July 29, 2020:

My cst is eighteen yrs old,agoraphobic and has slight dementia .

Colin Edwards on July 29, 2020:

Cats make great pets

Dre on July 28, 2020:

Should I list reasons why you shouldn't own dogs? There are negatives and positives to everything. To have an article base on one-sided views shows how unintelligent this writer is!

haris on July 20, 2020:

i only looked at this article becouse i needed some thing to write against cts for my school work. i didnt epect it to be this harsh by he way i love cat better ten any pet even tho my prents don let me own one booooooooooooo i dont kno wht was hapening insie your head when you were were wrighting this dumb article

Norag128 on July 16, 2020:

This article is joke. Even the terminology used is pathetic. A "pet cat"? This is clearly an ignorant idiot who shouldn't be writing articles about cats. Especially if your idea of an article is to dissuade people from having cats.

As has been pointed out, there are easy fixes to almost all the "downsides" you name. And some are just garbage like "aloofness" and "weirdness". My cats have always greeted me at the door. But then again, we have a loving relationship. Furniture as a reason? Furniture can be replaced, cats are family. Besides, if you have scratching posts and trees, it is rarely an issue.

The litter box? Clean it regularly and it won't be stomach churning. Having had 6 cats through the years, I've yet to have one go outside the box that wasn't due to a medical issue. Disrupted sleep? Our cats sleep with us in bed and I have yet to have my sleep disrupted in almost 20 years. Vet bills? Part of the responsibility of caring for a pet moron.

I hope to god you weren't paid for this inane drivel. Go roll around with your dogs and leave writing articles about cats to professionals. Ones that don't clearly hate cats.

Khanak on July 15, 2020:

Come on! Cats can be trained! Yes, they can be trained to be nice to people, poop in the litter box and so on! You are getting it too far. I mean I am a cat lover, but still, chill. Some of these are wrong too and cats are just like dogs. Fluffy, cute, intelligent, loving, respectful etc. And plus you can get a scratch post for them. The article is kind of stupid. (Why do you want us not to get a cat? Some of these are fake problems, I mean)

Trish on July 13, 2020:

you're kind of stupid about cats...Cats are independent, intelligent, caring, loving, respectful when respected and change bad habits when they have an understanding with you. You sound like a dog person.

Vickie on July 12, 2020:

Shut up

Almost everything on your list dogs do the same .

And humans does too( vomits on carpets when drunk.pees and poops all over the toilet and floor

Distroyes things when mad

Hits animals for no reason

Gavin on July 11, 2020:

Well done. You did a really good job :-)

Mary on July 10, 2020:

Lighten up people! I had always considered myself a dog person, having only dogs all of my life. I love all animals in general. I agreed to adopt an 11 year old cat, who was going to be put down. The owner passed away and the daughter didn't want him. I had this beautiful creature for 5 wonderful years. When he passed, I was inconsolable. I didn't know the first thing about cats. What a wild ride it was! C'mon, they bite, they scratch, they shed, they smell. People do the same and worse! BUT, what about the their crazy antics and their nuzzles and their crazy hiding places and their disdain for the food they LOVED yesterday! They are such a kick! At the onset of this horrible virus, I decided to rescue a cat. She was 7 years old and obese. I rescued her because I thought she would be the least likely cat to be adopted. Oh my gosh, I love her to death! She just wants to play and get attention. She lost weight naturally. Assuming, that the only interaction she had previously, was a full bowl! For all their fickleness and and weirdness, would you want it any other way? They always keep you guessing.

Doug Gay on July 10, 2020:

This is a very stupid article. I really hope the author doesn't have cats. All of our cats are full time indoor pets. All of them are very different but are all very loving. Actually, this person shouldn't have any pets. He would find fault in any animal from the sound of the article.

Kurston Sanchez on July 10, 2020:

Try writing about the positive reasons to own a cat idiot!!!

Sherish Macdonald on July 10, 2020:

This is ignorant and pisses me off!! We are having enough problems trying to get honest people to adopt our pet cats and they are sitting in a pound because of sick shit like these 15 reasons to not own a cat!!! What the hell is wrong with you??? This should be 15 reasons to own a cat!!! I really hope that you don’t have any animals because you probably abuse them!!?! Are you stupid??? No seriously? What is wrong with you?? Like did you fall on your head as a baby??? I’m so mad at you right now and I don’t think you should be allowed on any computers at any time ever!! I hope someone looks into your life to find out why you wrote this? All cats do all of those things and it’s completely normal!!! Those are the reasons too own a cat you retard!!! I want a apology from you my email is mad_woman@hotmail.com you sick fuck!!!

Valarie on July 10, 2020:

Who made this awful article

Pathetic, don’t you have anything positive to write about.??

Pam Ditto on July 09, 2020:

All of that basically applies to not having any pet, children or frankly other people in your life. Simply the most pointless article ever.

Jr on July 08, 2020:

I have had many cats over the years, The only regret I have is leave us too soon.

Elisa Ryan on July 08, 2020:

Cats are just decorative.The more I know them the more I prefer dogs and love them !

Lisa J on July 08, 2020:

I like how he says that cats throw up all over and yes they do. Ive had cats my whole life and i tell you, I would have 10 cats against 1 dog. Yes you can leave them for a few days but with dogs you cant leave them for longer than a couple of hours. And i have seen plenty of dogs throw up just as much as a cat if not more, dogs will eat anything. I love my cat,shes very loving and she does cuddle when i come home, so that being said, this article is a joke.

Lori Moser on July 07, 2020:

Yes who wrote that piece trash theyare wrong about cats we have one and she loving caring. Person who wrote must be dog lover and dogs are noise and cats are quite

Kim Wimmer on July 05, 2020:

Who let this guy write this article?! This is a complete joke!!!

Parvathy on July 04, 2020:

This article made me so mad. I have two lovely cats and they are so amazing and loving! I wanted to read through the comments to see if people are supporting this silly article and happy to see that most of them think this article crappy. None of the things mentioned in this article was never a problem for me. And generally cats are not being adopted due to misconceptions. Can't believe Google is promoting such articles!

Julie Farrell on July 04, 2020:

11, 14 Can easily be avoided. My cats sleep in the living room. I have a restful nights sleep every night. Also, I have a cat door in which they let themselves in and out. 15 Weirdness is not a reason. You really only have 12 reasons. However many of these apply to having a pet in general. And at least once you compared cats to dogs. But dogs have every negative on this list and much much more.

Bruce Bristow on July 03, 2020:

Only a dummy could stand five minute with a cat or cat person...thats way my dog love cats..he says delicious

Jennifer Green on July 03, 2020:

This article was written by a narcissist who can't even care about a pet. All the "reasons" you gave not to have a cat could apply to any pet. Speciesm is bad enough as it is, f you, Google, for putting this in my or anyone's newsfeed. Way to promote animal cruelty, jerk-offs

Robert_dirks@yahoo.com on July 03, 2020:

in an order of positive reports, the feline gets negative input you get negative results, our cat is well to her predator lifestyles, take an honest giving of attention and she loves her her fellow inhabitants us clearly in giving charge, A quiet almost ,(the single word of no,) does she feel part of the family inhabitants?Thank the Creator for a wonderful diverse of beings ,in Christ, the creator. Amen

John Lopas on July 03, 2020:

Gee, I guess you don't like cats. How about 15 reasons why not to read your crap article. Journalism's dead, for sure.

Marsha on July 03, 2020:

This person is nothing but an idiot! I've had cats all my life and they are so very sweet and loveable animals, I'm sad to hear there are people out there that are very selfish, obviously grew up hating cats, how sad for you.

Edwin on July 03, 2020:

Idiot writer

Anonymouse on July 03, 2020:

DOGS HAVE RIPPED PEOPLE'S FACES OFF AND RAPED TODDLERS AND KILLED TONS OF PEOPLE! LITTLE CATS HAVE NEVER, EVER, NOT EVEN ONCE, KILLED A PERSON! A CAT HAS EVEN SAVED A BOY FROM A DOG TRYING TO EAT HIM! Seriously, this writer is a putz and needs to be fired for an biased article. Where is the writer integrity? My cat greets me every freaking day, follows me around the house, waits in the bathroom until I'm doing in there (politely turning her back not to watch), races me to the bed to sleep, lays on my arm while I write, lays on my lap while I watch tv, tries to kiss me and run under me when I do push ups, and I spoon her at night and hold onto one foot paw to go to sleep because it is comforting. She lifts her freaking foot because she knows it helps me sleep. If, in the night, I turn over, my cat gets up and goes to the other side so I can hold her foot again. She never keeps me up. My old cat did, but I trained him to stop. This cat, however, is practically mute. She is perfection. Idk if it's her breed (singapura) or what, but she is uber polite and constantly worrying about me. If I sneeze, she runs over to me and tries her best to meow. She checks that I'm okay, licks me, and then keeps a good eye on me for like the next 20 min. When I am underwater in the tub too long, she peers over the side to make sure I didn't drown. She also never sheds! Her fur feels like a seal. She only meows if it is important like if she sees a scary bug. She has never awakened me. We play fetch, yes, but we also play CATCH! I throw a rubberband, and she throw up both front paws and catches like a baseball player. She can even catch it in her mouth! She likes to mix it up. As for her litter box, it is not gross because I use the Breeze system with the pee lad in the lower drawer and the pellets on the upper grate. I never smell anything. The pellets are big so they don't track anywhere. Dogs, however, require you to walk them, they hump your leg (ewwwww), they bark so loud and suddenly that you get hot coffee all over if your holding a full cup and get the stuffing scared out of you when one dog passes another, and they require you to pick up their hot, wet, turds in your thin surgical glove covered HAND in freaking PUBLIC! And we all know cats rule and dogs DROOL. Gross again. If you think it's better to have a drooling animal that want to have sex with you and be your slave but can also turn on you, rape your child and rip your face off, then you'rr either uneducated, naive, or you've got a whole lot more problems than someone who prefers cats. Remember that serial killer whose neighbor's dogs incessant barking would not let him sleep? Yeah, drove him to commit serial murder. Cats view us as family - not masters. Cat people are not insensitive. In fact, they are more educated than dog owners as studies show. Cat owners are 30% less likely to have a heart attack but they could not prove that for dogs (I'm sure the barking doesn't help but purring sure does.) Cat people simply prefer to live with someone they respect like a cat. The cat feels the same. Cats pick their people. If cats don't like you, then change your behavior toward them. They have high standards and respect themselves, and they are excellent hunters that do not need us to survive. They simply love us and for them that's what matters as long as we treat them with respect. Cats don't forget mistreatment and do not allow abuse. So cat owners love cats because they understand them. They know cats are like many humans. The kind of humans we respect. They save the world by reducing rat populations that could bring on the ratapocalypse where our food would be gone and we would get the plague and die. Cats are the heroes of our world (Google what would happen in a world without cats and watch the video to learn about experiments where it actually happened on small islands.) They know it and you, sir, are an idiot for recognizing their awesomeness.

Susan on July 03, 2020:

If you dont like cats, dont get any. Ive had cats from childhood, about 50 yrs now & the only thing I agree with you about is their hunting instincts. Everything else can be dealt with easily. As for vet bills, shop around. Cats are cheaper to keep than dogs...or children!

Christina on July 02, 2020:

This person Paul Goodman, who wrote this article needs to have people watch over him on what he writes and he should be Fired for writing an article like this too. Anyone can criticize anything and he is surly Not a person who should own any type of dog or cat or any animal period. He is intolerable and writes things that can be taken out of content and negative. He's a Idiot to say the least about him ..

Alan on July 02, 2020:

Whoever wrote this is a total idiot !

Teresa on July 02, 2020:

I would rather be surrounded by cats and dogs who are not judge mental not critical and have an innocent caring heart than with a dark hearted lost person like you.

Celeste on July 02, 2020:

I have a cat and a dog. Shame on you! Obviously you have no idea what you are talking about. My cat, as cats should be, is indoors. Clean, fun, best pets ever. Inexpensive relative to dogs. Get your facts straight!!!!

Lauraloo on July 02, 2020:

1st of all...owning a pet is optional. I prefer cats but dogs are great too!

2nd I really hope Jennifer Love Hewitt did not say cat owners are insensitive. If you did you are the stupidest human being on earth! My cats are little human beings with boat loads of personality. Where ever I am in the house or in our outside enclosure they are. They fetch toys! They both wait at the door for me to come home. They LOVE thier human. Cats are intelligent they know who is and is not a cat person. You...are not... therefor they dont like you!

3rd to person who wrote article...you're an idiot! Cats are independent oh yes...you can put food down & take off for a few days.

Get a scratchpost or a cat tree it works!

Hairballs??? Rarely if at all & there's stuff to prevent it. Vet bills...take care of any pet & vet bills are minimal. Every person & pet needs medical attn at some point. Your reasons to not own a cat are bogus to say the least. The best way to own a cat is to spend time with it, explore its personality make sure its what you're looking for. For all cat lovers it is a complete joy to be thier cats choice human. Your ignorant article is sending an incorrect, judgemental messsge!

Ana Valle on July 02, 2020:

You obviously have never had a cat. Before trashing cats do your research. I had better luck training my cars than my dogs. I have spend more money on veterinarians for my dogs than my cats.

Sandra Fiorillo on July 02, 2020:

Whoever wrote that article on 15 reasons why you shouldnt get a cat should be shot in my world dogs get fleas 2! You are dispicable people who read that would prob miss out on hiw cats are very independent LOVEABLE CARING FUN LOVE 2 PLAY SLEEP WITH YOU ETC. I ADORE CATS HAD THEM ALL MY LIFE I CURRENTLY HAVE 3 BLACK BEAUTYS. BUT WHOEVER WROTE THAT IN A WAY LIKE ME WOULD TAKE THAT OFFENSE SO 2 THAT PERSON I HOOE YOU BURN IN HELL!!!!!!

Victoria Jackson on July 02, 2020:

I Love my cat.no matter what.only because you for some of your reasoning .that is crazy.it is no different than having kids .you have got to teach them ..

Esther on July 02, 2020:

Cat hater !!! that all the bad stuff he talks about is mostly what a dog have or do maybe more so don't say crap "CAT HATER"

Diondria Harrison on July 01, 2020:

I LOVE CATS and every reason I read like "omg thats not a bad thing" my cats are awesome!!

Abby m a e on July 01, 2020:

He's a guy they need to have somebody depend on them to feel significant that's what you get with a dog

Luis on July 01, 2020:

Why didn't he write a similar article about dogs? Simply this guy is totally against cats, he hates cats.

Felicette on June 30, 2020:

worst article I've ever read

Burst on June 30, 2020:

Dumbest article I’ve ever read!!!!!

Kazz Sib on June 30, 2020:

I've had cats for years and dogs and both are brilliant pets. My cats got me through some really bad times and they have been really loving!! Perhaps the writers cats is so negative because cats are not stupid, they know a cat hater a mile away!! Take your negativity and put it where the sun don't shine mate, especially in these bad times, where people have been abandoning more poor animals !!

Keyth scholes on June 30, 2020:

Cats are not easy but very loving genniue and look after you when ill. Great petsm very intelligent creatures. More reliable than humans. Keep out vermin. Obvio

Lili on June 30, 2020:

Ok someone has hatred for cats..that's fine as long as you're not a writer ! Especially on google or other popular websites on internet. Seriously, take your hatred and GO AWAY !! We don't like people who don't like animals, especially cats, dogs, and other sweet and furry little things. I hope i've made myself clear enough..Have a GOOD DAY

Sunshine on June 30, 2020:

You are insenstive in your own opinion about cats..I love my cats,they are sweet and loving animals,if you can't give love to them,then they are not for you!

Lorie Kollock on June 30, 2020:

I love dogs and cats and I really am tired of people who think one is better than the other. They're different animals and people should respect their differences and choose the pet that's right for you! I personally find that cats are for me. I have 3 presently. They are not standoffish and they love me because they know I love them. They greet me when I come home. They are all lap cats, bed buddies, and love bugs. I have had an assortment over the last 40+ yrs. They have all had different personalities, like people. None have been anti-social. I have my cats declawed at a young age and they are fine, it's NOT abusive, they are running around while still bandaged, and normal after bandage removal in about 5 days. It is possible to find vets now that will do laser declawing and it makes it even easier on the cat. If it was an awful thing I wouldn't do it. We are all happier without the claws.

So anyway, don't let this stupid article deny you the years of love that you get from a cat!

Michelle Strother on June 30, 2020:

Not a smart move! Alot of people own cats, and love them. This article is about your opinion. I doubt Pet Helpful shares your opinion. If you worked for me, I would have let you go. Sorry but, that's my opinion.

Lardy on June 30, 2020:

My cat does all the things you quoted but is still a superstar.

Shock on June 29, 2020:

This article is one of the dumbest of all time

Catlady on June 29, 2020:

Dude, are you for real.?!!.I've had dogs and cats in my life and kitty cats.. . .Way cooler..

Enzo Scalise on June 29, 2020:

Fine. Enjoy your ugly, annoying, smelly, whining, high maintenance dog.

Daniel on June 29, 2020:

You are totally wrong

I love them the best pet

Emily on June 29, 2020:

This article is a load of BS

Joei on June 29, 2020:

This guy is a raving idiot

Paul goldston on June 29, 2020:

I got a female cat and i tell her no not to scratch the furniture and ignore me and still does it then j have a piece of paper and i shake it and then a spray bottle with lemon juice i spray on furniture then she runs away from the furniture .

Kim bede on June 29, 2020:

You have this all wrong !! I have 3 cats 2 do tricks and are very easy to train !! Get your facts straight before you downplay cats !!

FLEXXUS THE SLOTH-CAT on June 29, 2020:

How dare u descriminate cats

ReddBoi on June 28, 2020:

Ok first,this person is high on crack

Second, they probably hurt cats for fun

Third, they are a liar saying that they lived with cats and made up almost everything that they said.

WORST HUMAN BEING TO EXIST.