What Pet Ownership Has Taught Me

It’s the six month anniversary of when we adopted little Gypsy cat, so I wanted to let you guys know how pet ownership has changed me as a person.
Before Gyps, I’d never had a pet previously. I’d lived with another family who had pets, but it wasn’t my responsibility to look after them, and whilst we cuddled (a lot), they weren’t my own. Having my own pet is different.

It’s taught me a sense of responsibility. It’s in a way preparing me for parenthood, because for this small animal, I’m her entire world and she’s totally dependent on me to be kept safe, fed, warm and happy. If I forget to feed her, she goes without. If her water bowl isn’t full, she goes thirsty. It’s not like you and me where we can pop to the shop and grab a snack – this little animal is fully dependent on you for everything.

It’s taught me the value of quiet moments. Gyps isn’t too great with loud noises – the postman’s van spooks her, she hates fireworks and jumps if we ever raise our voices at each other. Her (and my) favourite times are simply cuddled up in silence together. Quiet is beautiful, it allows for time to reflect and re-evaluate situations, and it allows for cuddles, which makes it just that much better.

I always was a homebody, but I’ve become much moreso now. Previously it was due to my anxiety that I hardly left – only for work or for university, and for some days that was even too much. But now – my priorities are different, I’d much rather be cuddled up at home under a blanket with my cat by my side than out and about. She’s my happy place, and by the sound of her purrs I’m hers as well.

Gyps has taught me so much in her small time in my life. She’s taught me the value of silence, that an animal’s love is unconditional, and taught me a huge element of responsibility. Her personality is simply perfect – cuddly and sweet, but rambunctious and playful, especially at 3am in the morning in her tunnel! Some days she just won’t leave my side- she’ll be sitting on my chest for hours, following me throughout the house. She’s honestly the biggest blessing on my life. 

If you’re reading this and considering getting yourself/your family a pet, I couldn’t recommend it higher. You’ll get yourself a companion who will love you unconditionally forever.  We adopted Gypsy from a local animal shelter, and I couldn’t recommend adopting more – you’re giving these animals a second chance in life, a forever home, and they will always and forever love you for it!