Elsa Angel rose
Respect for boundaries, a need for independence, low-maintenance emotional support, adaptability to small, cozy spaces, and being easy on the wallet, these are exactly the things Generation Z values most. Cats, or more like ‘cars’ (few Gen Z refer to cats as ‘cars’), tick all the above boxes for Gen Z to be madly and profoundly in love with them. A rising meme culture that prominently features cats, celebrity and internet personalities’ influence, and more has also led to the rising popularity of cats as pets. Café is exploring Generation Z’s undying love for cats, covering aspects of emotional connection with cats, felines' relation with Gen Z lifestyle, presence of furry companions in dynamic meme culture, and more.
“Simba, my cat doesn’t talk, obviously, but somehow I always feel heard when he’s around. I feel like cats sense your mood and respond in their own quiet way”, noted Ojal Gaitonde, a 20-year-old cat lover from Moira. Felines have a unique way of connecting emotionally, offering comfort and calm without demanding constant attention. Their subtle gestures and quiet presence often provide a needed relief during stressful or lonely times. Ojal continued, “Cats don’t demand constant attention, but when they come to you, it feels genuine and special. My cat 'Simba' has this personality that makes even the quietest moments feel warm.”
Having a close connection with a pet is a blessing, but for Gen Z, it is a top priority that their boundaries are not intruded upon. Unlike Dogs, cats are not clingy or in constant need of attention, care, or love. They are good on their own. Most cat owners opine that even though their cats do not show much affection, they always understand the owner and in times of hurdles, they offer tremendous love and caring through small, cute, and meaningful gestures. Deanne Ella Fernandes, a 19-year-old from Saligao, said, “Cats may not be as affectionate as dogs, but it always melts my heart to see small signs of affection from them, such as following you around, nudging their head, or rubbing their bodies against you.”
Cats are honestly perfect for Gen Z’s lifestyle, especially for those who live in smaller spaces or lead a more introverted or digital kind of life. Ojal said, “They don’t need a huge house or constant supervision. Simba (her cat) is happy with his daily 'must follow' routine- food, nap, staring at his 'cat girlfriend' from the gallery, and that fits so well with my own schedule.” According to Ojal, cats are also financially manageable. They don’t need expensive maintenance to be happy.
Deanne said, “Most people adopt cats because they don't need much care, they clean themselves, and all they need is food and a comfortable place to sleep, and of course, some play time. Most cats are low-maintenance.”