But not everyone understands cats. Some people perceive us as aloof and “too” independent. We all know that guy or that gal. "I hate cats!". Who ARE these people? Surprisingly, they are often those who have never had cats. Shocking, right? They were likely raised by someone who disliked cats, just as that person might have grown up with a negative experience involving a misunderstood feline. And we all know what probably happened. Just because their dog loves rough play, they woke up one day and had a brilliant idea: "You know what this cat needs? Get a cat from a total stranger today!"  And then, they act surprised and so hurt when they get a lesson (or two) on personal boundaries! It’s okay; some people haven’t been fortunate enough to learn about proper introduction protocol or be chosen by the Cat Distribution System yet. They are not ready for such a responsibility. I truly hope they will someday for their own benefit and their kids.

But you, dear reader, understand us. You know we are anything but unattached. The love of a cat is akin to that of an English gentleman: understated and reserved at first, then explosive once unleashed. Practically speaking, this means we will ignore you and act unimpressed until you earn our affection. But once you do, we will follow you around the house whether you like it or not. We’ll guard your back while you use the toilet (don’t leave us out of it) and make sure you don’t drown in the shower. We might grunt at strangers, defend you from the delivery person, and offer you a loving lick if your scent isn’t our own. We will even lick away your tears when you cry and might tackle you on your way to the kitchen just for fun (or maybe that’s just me).

A cat lady who has enjoyed our company knows we recognize our name and nicknames; we understand when you are happy, frustrated, or sad, and we value your physical affection (in our designated areas) more than anything else. Independent? Sure. Unaffectionate? Only to the unworthy.

Do you want to make sure your cat deeply loves you? Watch this video; it's my favorite on the topic.

So why would you choose us? Because the most gratifying things in life are earned through effort. Because relationships built on mutual admiration and respect run deeper. We will make you feel special because you are special to us already. You provide us with safety. You give us a home—a warm place to snooze, snuggle, and cuddle. When you share a cozy blanket with us, we lie on our bellies and sides, curled up or sprawled out on our backs, to show you how much we like it. And food—fresh food that we don’t have to hunt from disease-prone creatures. Don’t get me wrong; I love the thrill of the hunt like any feline. But honestly, eating that? We’ve evolved alongside you, for you. We want a clean dish with fresh and abundant food fit for humans, along with fresh water.

Most importantly, if we’ve chosen to stay with you, it’s because we genuinely like you. Think about it: despite any looks you may think we’re giving you, we could technically escape and leave at any time, but we don’t. Right? We don’t ask for much, and when you provide for our needs and couple it with plenty of quiet (not hyper) affection, we’re yours.

And then there are the health benefits. 

1. Our companionship can reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. We’ll do silly things to make you laugh because laughter relieves stress. That's why we insist on bringing you toys to play with us!
2. And after a great quality time together comes the purring. Scientists are discovering that our purring has healing properties—we can heal muscles and bones. We purr for self-healing and as a way to show our love for you by helping you heal, too.  
3. And did you know we heal hearts? A study published in the "Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology" in 2009 found a lower risk of death from myocardial infarction (heart attack) and all cardiovascular diseases (including stroke) among individuals who owned cats. I mean, there is a solid reason why people with a broken heart get a cat or two...or three ;)

So why us? I mean… isn’t it obvious by now? All cat lovers know the real question is: How many cats? And that, my friends, is a topic for another blog post.

Some of you, somewhat new to this game, may be wondering: but Yoru, what about rodent control? Well, let me tell you something. Not all cats are suited for such a disgusting lifestyle. And that is what it is. A lifestyle. A choice. Some cats like to stick with a paleo diet. Some were born wild and free and don’t know better. Or miss it. I find it repulsive, so on behalf of all the cats who have felt pressed by such a limiting stereotype, I refuse to list pest control as a benefit of cat ownership. There. Sue me if you want. I’ll see you in court.

That being said, we can’t help but come across as intimidating, which actually works in our favor. Not only does it make some people a bit uneasy when we want to (which is always highly entertaining), but our presence also helps deter pests without us lifting a single claw. 

Now let's talk about personal branding.  

1. Our mysterious demeanor, high confidence levels, and undisputable charm can enhance a cat lady's image and boost her professional credibility just with a cat by appearing on her video calls. I’ve had plenty to contribute in many meetings throughout my young career working from home. 
2. We do wonders with men. We can make any mean-looking guy look instantly approachable and trustworthy. If you have gotten that feedback before, or you need help with small talk in general, make sure we join the meeting. Just make sure to invite us with enough advance because our calendars sometimes fill up very quickly.

Some words of wisdom here:

1. Keep a polished and composed appearance during your video call. We communicate mostly with our bodies. Have you heard of executive presence?
2. Don't baby-talk to us during business calls. Yes, we are cute. But the idea is to elevate your professional brand. Keep calm and carry on.
3. Can you elevate your personal brand further? YES. Locate our killer cat tree, pedestal, or bed right on your back. We can also sit right beside you and silently cheer you up. They'll never know we are inspiring that magnetic flare or killer instinct. At Yoru Says, we have designed a stool just for this in colors that should go with any home office. 

So why us? I mean… isn’t it obvious by now? Any cat lady and cat lover knows the real question is: How many cats? And that, my friends, is a topic for another blog post.