Men And Cats Can’T Compare

What’s the deal with single women and cats?

Judging from sitcom wisecracks and real-life insinuations, the most popular theory seems to be that women who live alone acquire cats in an attempt to fill a void in their lives. That’s the stereotype.

And we all know whose place the felines supposedly are filling.

But isn’t it just a bit insulting to suggest that a woman has a cat because she hasn’t found Mr. Right?

Sure it is. That’s an affront to the woman and the cat.

Try telling a Maine Coon that it is a mere substitute for a belching couch potato in pants. See what reaction you get.

Besides, most women can usually tell the difference between cats and men. They know the two address separate sets of needs.

Cats are furry and cute. They exude dignity. And when they express affection, it can be like receiving a gift.

Men, on the other hand, are, well, that’s really another story.

Has it occurred to anyone that single women might be attracted to cats for the same reasons little kids, married men and grandparents are drawn to cats?

They’re nice to have around.

But joke writers, office matchmakers and buttinsky relatives like to stigmatize single women’s devotion to their pets. They point to it as a sign that these ladies have come up short in the relationships department. (As if all human pairings are stable, rewarding and fulfilling.)

OK, maybe loneliness is one reason some single women have cats. It would be silly to totally discount that.

But lots of married people are lonely, too. And nobody suggests that their animals represent a dangerous emotional crutch.

Here’s a possibility. Maybe single women and cats are natural companions because each tends to have a lot on the ball.

Both typically value their independence. Both tend to be concerned about their appearance, take a dim view of fools and enjoy seafood.

There’s probably more.

But here’s some advice for men who take an interest in one of these women: Don’t badmouth the cat.

Guys who whine that a woman spends too much time doting on her cat come off looking selfish and insecure. That’s not a sexy combo.

Instead, the thing to do is be friendly though reserved and wait for the cat to make up its own mind about you.

If the verdict turns out to be a paws-down, at least there’s a chance the woman won’t blame you.

And if the cat decides it likes you, well, you’re not going to get a better endorsement.