The Pros and Cons of Owning a Kitty: A Comprehensive Look

Zoey Waverider

Updated Thursday, July 4, 2024 at 12:00 AM CDT

The allure of owning a kitty is undeniable. With their playful antics and heart-melting cuteness, cats have found a special place in many households. However, while there are numerous reasons to welcome a feline friend into one's home, the experience is not without its challenges.

One of the most significant concerns is allergies. As one user poignantly shared, "I'm severely allergic to cats, and I wish I wasn't. There's not enough chicken eggs or benadryl in the world for me." Allergies to cats can be severe, making it impossible for some to even consider owning one.

Financial constraints are another major factor. A user highlighted, "$500 non-refundable deposit and $300 more on lease per month pretty much does it for me. No kitty for me." The costs don't end there; another commenter shared their experience with medical expenses, saying, "One of mine died at 8, and the other I’ve spent in the 10k range over her lifetime in medical costs, special food, vet visits, etc."

Space limitations can also play a role. "1 reason for me, complete and utter lack of viable space for a kitty to be happy," noted one individual. A lack of space can lead to an unhappy pet, which in turn can create stress for the owner.

The upkeep of a litter box is another deterrent. As one user put it, "I can’t abide a litter box. I’m terrible at their constant upkeep and the damn litter gets tracked all over the house anyway." The daily maintenance required can be off-putting for many potential cat owners.

Despite these challenges, many cat owners find the experience rewarding. "Well, the constant heart attacks from trust fall cuteness," remarked one user, emphasizing the joy that cats can bring. However, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons before making the commitment.

Allergies, space, financial constraints, and the upkeep of a litter box are just a few of the considerations potential cat owners must take into account. Pets, including cats, require time, money, and effort. As one commenter summed up, "Pets are expensive and time-consuming."

Understanding the full scope of responsibilities can help potential cat owners make informed decisions. The conversation around cat ownership is diverse, with valid points on both sides. Whether for or against, the discussion sheds light on the multifaceted nature of bringing a kitty into one's home.

Noticed an error or an aspect of this article that requires correction? Please provide the article link and reach out to us. We appreciate your feedback and will address the issue promptly.

View source: Imgur

Top Comments from Imgur

horseman05

$500 non-refundable deposit and $300 more on lease per month pretty much does it for me.No kitty for me.

ComoSeIguana

I'm severely allergic to cats, and I wish I wasn't. There's not enough chicken eggs or benadryl in the world for me.

eppykaze

1 reason for me, complete and utter lack of viable space for a kitty to be happy.

BrainTaffy

No one really talks about when you get a broken one. The litter I adopted my two girls from were all sickly, we found out later. One of mine died at 8, and the other I’ve spent in the 10k range over her lifetime in medical costs, special food, vet visits, etc. and there have been endless hours of care and worry. I’ve never regretted them, but I do sometimes think about how cool it would be to have the more average easy/healthy cat experience.

dwolvin

Well, the constant heart attacks from trust fall cuteness...

netutoring

Allergies always get sneered at. It's rare to find ANY sympathetic ear in most forums when you suggest allergies are why you don't have pets.

HillOfBeans

I can’t abide a litter box. I’m terrible at their constant upkeep and the damn litter gets tracked all over the house anyway. Can someone please invent a practical, easily installed flat place that pets can pee and p*** on and it will get washed or degraded safely away? Like a shower pan but somehow has waste removal magic. And pets happily do their business there. Can science go that far?

stronomer

How many cute cat videos on imgur are from animal mills that are just there for clicks with the kittens being disposed of after a while? We should have videos only of OP-owned cats. Should be enough.

expertLevelProcrastinator

allergy..

StarSumiaki

I own too many fragile things. No cat for me.

Check out our latest stories