There’s no question that cats are a popular choice for pets – in fact, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, more households in the U.S. have cats than dogs!

Whether you’re simply thinking of having a cat as a pet, or you’re celebrating Adopt-A-Cat month with a visit to your local animal shelter, here are 15 reasons why cats make the absolute best pets.

They’re great with kids

Cats can have a bunch of positive effects on children. According to Care.com, owning a cat can teach kids social skills, help them cope with traumatic situations, and even make them less likely to have allergies.

They can actually cost less than a dog

According to the ASPCA, cats won’t break the bank nearly as much as medium or large dogs because they require much less food, fewer toys, and fewer trips to the groomer.

They’re the ideal pet for apartments

Plenty of apartments allow cats because they’re quiet, so they are less likely to wake the neighbors up when someone rings your doorbell.

You know they are low maintenance

Unlike our friend Fido, Whiskers doesn’t require multiple walks a day. Older cats can also be left alone for a day or two if they have access to their food, water, and litter box. Of course, make sure you speak with your veterinarian beforehand.

They have playful moods

Ever wonder why cats love to play? Since they don’t hunt for their food, it’s believed kitties have an abundance of energy stored up and release it through playtime.

They don’t make you feel bad when you leave them

When you head off to work and need to leave your pet behind, you may start to feel a little guilty. But it might be easier with a cat who loves having the house to themselves. Cats will sleep whenever they’re bored – about 15 hours a day.

They’re clearly the most intelligent house pet

Just kidding … but seriously, cats are a lot smarter than people make them out to be. According to Animal Planet, cats are constantly learning and have an excellent memory.

They groom themselves

Sure, you’ll still have to take your feline to the groomers every once in a while, but cats generally take care of themselves in that department, saving you time and energy.

They’re (supposedly) better for the environment

Since cats don’t eat nearly as much meat as dogs do, it results in a much smaller carbon footprint. While definitely smaller, both animals have footprints equivalent to cars, according to some sustainability authors.

They’re efficient drinkers because they’re sophisticated beings

A study found that cats drink water “gracefully,” so if you have misophonia a.k.a. you hate the sound of chewing (and/or drinking), you may want to get a cat.

They’re actually good for your health

Research shows cats can help lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of dying from a heart attack. It’s amazing knowing that one of these cuties is keeping you healthy.

People find their purrs therapeutic

Not only is purring absolutely adorable, but it can also be a soothing sound for humans. In fact, there are numerous online videos of cats just purring to help people fall asleep.

They were once worshipped by Egyptians

Egyptian history shows that cats worked hard to be welcomed into homes. But people eventually noticed that the animals resembled Bast, the Ancient Egyptian goddess of warfare, and they started to be held in high regard.

They can live for a long time

There are few things in life more heartbreaking than losing a pet, which is why knowing that your cat can live on an average of 12 years is quite comforting.

They’re just adorable

We don’t really have to say this, but in case you need convincing, cats are seriously cute.