I’m a crazy cat lady and proud of it!
A few weeks ago, I introduced you to some of my bloggy mates – the ones that are almost as crazy about cats, as I am.
To help unite us and build a sense of community, I even designed a badge for each of us to share on our blogs – which most gladly did. (Do let me know if you want to display the badge too and be added to the crazy cat lady blogroll!)
But not everybody was keen. Because apparently calling yourself a crazy cat lady isn’t necessarily a good thing.
Who knew?!
It seems there are many cat lovers – bloggers and others, particularly those involved in rescue work – who dislike the phrase “crazy cat lady”.
You see, research has shown that the whole negative stereotype of crazy cat ladies, has a detrimental effect on the number of cats adopted from shelters. People who would otherwise be delighted to give a kitty (or, in some cases, another kitty) a loving home, resist the idea – primarily because they are concerned about how their family, friends and society will judge them.
And when you think about it, you don’t see too many men admitting to being cat lovers either – it’s just not seen as “macho”. But I’m here to tell ya – real men love cats too – just ask the hubster!
Now THAT’S a real man at Brisbane’s Cat Cuddle Cafe!
Anything that stops people adopting cats from shelters, or enjoying the company of a furry friend, is just downright sad.
So am I going to change the badge, and tell people: “Don’t call me a crazy cat lady anymore!”?
Nope.
Because I figure the best way to smash the stereotype, is to show that (relatively!) normal, everyday people, love cats. Every post you see about my cat here on the blog, every pic of her on Instagram, every cute cat video I share on Facebook – that’s me, doing my bit, to show the world what a modern cat owner looks like. That they don’t need to fear the stereotype. That cats make wonderful pets, and can enrich the life of any woman, man or child.
Who’s with me in my quest to make cats (and crazy cat ladies!) cool?!
Ashleigh My Meow says
Cats are the best. They are so funny and have so much personality and are very intuitive! I have been time poor but keep forgetting to add the badge! I’m proud to be a cat mamma! I also think lots of creative types are more likely to be kitty people.
Janet Camilleri says
I think you might be right about the creatives thing Ashleigh! Have you ever noticed that dog people nearly always “hate” cats, but cat people usually like dogs too? I think that shows that cat people are more loving and accepting. Well that’s my theory anyways!!! 😉
Denise says
I don’t mind being called a crazy cat or dog lady, but I can see your point. I love posting adorable pictures of my babies, so I will continue in order to encourage “adopt, not shop”. 🙂
mackenzie glanville says
I have no problem being a crazy cat lady lol, even my hubby thinks I am. I have adopted 4 cats as rescues, a brother and sister that someone dumped at our local vet were my first Toby and London. Unfortunately London passed away due to a complication with surgery. So we got Toby a new sister (unrelated) called Pumpkin from a shelter outside of Melbourne. I then went on to rescue another cat later on from the same shelter called Avari. I love my cats as do my kids. There are so many cats that are in need of a home so whether that’s considered cool or not I am happy I have put up my hand to help. Well done you for helping out!