We’ve been debating this whole pet thing for awhile. Recently, we had an interesting breakthrough. The thought process goes like this:

1. We love where we live. We have an amazing apartment in a great part of the city, and no matter how green the grass looks on the other side, we’re really comfortable here. I would even go so far as to say we’re spoiled. The only thing that is imperfect about our apartment? No dogs.

2. A dog is a pain in the ass. Realistically, if the dog can’t come to work with me most of the days of the week, we’re not getting a dog, even if it was allowed. I won’t keep a dog in a crate all day every day, especially in a building where neighbors could hear barking. Won’t. Of course, training would be done, but what a tough situation if it doesn’t work out the way we hope.

3. Not all cats are assholes. We have first hand experience with some great cats. Some first hand experience with some not-so-great cats. We want a cat that wants to be with us, and cuddle, who doesn’t attack us or ignore us.

4. Hmm, is there like, a lap-cat breed out there?

5. Hm. There is. The Ragdoll

• Ragdolls are very social animals. They love people and get along well with gentle dogs.
• They love kids, provided the kids aren’t complete assholes.
• They’re extremely gentle and docile; called ragdolls for their tendency to go limp when held.
• Ragdolls are much easier to train than other cats – permitting baths, leashes, and car travel.
• They enjoy playing fetch.
• They aren’t big jumpers; because they are big cats (some getting up to 25lbs), they tend to be stocky and sturdy, and mostly floor-level.
• They have soft, medium length fur. They do not have an undercoat, so unlike other longer haired cats, are much more resistant to matting.
• They are actually called “puppy cats.”

So yes, instead of getting a dog, we’re getting a cat that in all respects resembles what we look for in a dog, with the added bonus of being litter / toilet trained (lofty goals!) and indoor only.

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