4 Interesting Facts About Cats
Did you know that Australia has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world? According to RSPCA, 69% of Australian households own pets. 48% of those own dogs, and 33% of them own cats. That’s a lot of domestic cats we have here in our country, and a lot of animals we’ll need to consider when preparing for the end of our loved ones’ lives, and the end of our own lives.
Pet owners often speak of the relational benefits (ie. the love, affection and companionship), socialisation benefits (ie. being able to connect to the wider community and interact with others outside of their household), improved mental health and wellbeing (think, Pet Therapy), and improved physical health they experience when they own any type of pet. But what are the unique benefits you can expect to experience when you bring a cute little cat into your home?
Here are some interesting facts about cats (and their owners).
1. Cats are relatively independent.
While they can’t exactly make their own food, tidy the house or sort the washing, cats are able to take themselves out on walks (which means you don’t need to ‘walk them’), are less interested in human food than dogs (so they likely won’t nag you at the dinner table), and they’re super easy to transport if you need to take them to the vet, to a cat sitter when you’re going on holiday, or just if you’re heading out on a fun excursion. This makes cats a super easy pet to look after, both for young busy families and older retirees. In fact, although some aged care facilities still have strict 'no-pets' allowed policies in place, many places are now offering pet-friendly aged care so you can take your cat with you.
2. Cats are one of the most abandoned types of pets.
It’s sad, but it’s true. Maybe it’s because they often take themselves outside for walks (they love nothing more than roaming around the neighbourhood), or because the owners get too comfortable with being lazy and not needing to exercise their cat. Either way, it’s not uncommon for domestic cats to be abandoned in Australia, causing them to become pests to communities around the country.
3. Cats are frequently adopted.
If abandoned cats make you feel sad, we come bearing good news: Cats are one of the most popular pets to adopt. Between 2021 and 2022, 33,697 cats were adopted in Australia (according to Pet Rescue). This means it’s pretty easy to find your cat a new home if you need to; there’ll likely be someone who’s keen on taking them home to care for.
4. Many pet owners don’t have a plan in place for when they die.
Do you have a cat? Maybe you have another kind of pet who now feels like part of your family or household? Regardless of what type of furry friend you have at home, it’s important to ensure you have a plan in place for when you pass, so they aren’t left alone to fend for themselves.
Wrap up
At Willed, we’re passionate about helping you get your ducks (or cats) in a row, so you won’t need to worry about your most important possessions or pets when it’s time to say goodbye. When you include your pet in your Will, you’ll be able to appoint a guardian who’ll take care of them when you’re gone, plus, you can ensure you leave some of your savings to the guardian too, to help pay for future medical bills, food, and essential items.
Don’t risk your furry friend ending up at the home of cranky cousin Collin and include your cat in your Will. Start writing yours online today in just 15 minutes.
