My mom forwarded me an article today about how single cat ladies are beginning to embrace their life and the choices they’ve made to live alone with cats.
I have to say it was utterly delightful.
First of all, there were a number of references to witches having familiars that were cats and that really resonated with me.
In fact, the entire article was right up my alley because I understand what it’s like to have companions that are feline.
Cats really are different than dogs in so many ways. I’ve spoken to people over the years who say you have to earn a cat’s love. It’s not freely given.
In some respects, I agree. Cats are particular about who they will trust. I think they have to be.
In the wild or on the streets, they have to be very careful about humans. We’ve seen evidence at the shelter of cats that clearly trusted people only to be incredibly hurt.
A cat is a wise creature and once he or she is injured by a human, the chance they will trust again drops considerably.
It’s not impossible, though.
We have cats at the shelter who come in quite terrified, but we are able to get them to open up and realize not all people are mean.
That’s what I think people mean about earning a cat’s love.
Some felines, though, will walk right up to people and expect a snuggle. In fact, they have been known to force their way into conversations so they can get the attention of the person they’re after.
I’ve known a lot of cats over the years who were a lot like their canine counterparts in that they follow humans through the house and most definitely seek out human affection.
The thing about the single cat lady is interesting. There was always a negative connotation to the “crazy cat lady” who lived down the street and I think in this world, that’s starting to go away.
Women are beginning to embrace not only their single status, but also the fact that they enjoy the company of cats.
The article interviewed a number of women about their lives and their cats. It was actually refreshing to see so many of them feeling empowered by supporting themselves in their own careers and being so willing to admit that they love the feline.
Heck, one lady was a high up at HBO and said she has been single for decades and had a whole bunch of cats throughout her life. She said she feels a real connection to cats and wholeheartedly embraces the fact that she is single.
The article wondered if single cat ladies were actually happier.
After reading all those stories, I think a case could definitely be made that they are.
I’m happy to live in a time in the world when women are able to both express their love for cats and remain single.
In fact, I would be both thrilled and proud to be known as the “crazy cat lady” who lives down the street. My felines mean the world to me and always will.
And so I say, single cat ladies of the world, unite!
That sure is a fun group in which to maintain a membership.
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Jennifer Vanderau is the public relations coordinator for the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter and can be reached at [email protected]. The shelter accepts both monetary and pet supply donations. For more information, readers may call the shelter at 717-263-5791 or visit the website www.cvas-pets.org. CVAS also operates a thrift store in Chambersburg. Help support the animals at the shelter by donating to or shopping at the store
