Is your cat part of your family? Do you refer to yourself as your cat's mom or dad? Cats that are loved and valued as a child are lucky cats.

It is becoming more common for cats to be a valued member of a household, rather than a replaceable possession. While there is still far too much of it, it is less acceptable for a cat to live wandering the streets, fending for itself. This trend is being replaced by cats regarded as children, living in a loving home with their own warm bed, nutritious meals, and much spoiling!

Signs that your cat is a furry child:

1. You always carry a picture of your cat in your wallet, and you show it off often.

2. Your cat has his or her own stocking and gifts under the Christmas tree.

3. You always keep cat treats on your counter.

4. The plant life in your home includes cat nip and cat grass.

5. Your cat has birthday parties.

6. A common form of decor in your home is the cat tree.

7. Instead of the kennel, your cat has a relative, friend or cat sitter come to your home.

8. Your cat drinks from your milk glass, and instead of getting new milk, you just drink after him or her.

9. Your cat has health insurance.

10. There are arrangements in your will for you cat.

11. You have been known to take your cat for a walk in a stroller.
12. Your friends threw you a shower when you got your kitten.

13. You've called off work because your cat is ill.

14. Spending quality time with your cat everyday is a priority.

15. Head rubs and purrs from your cat are welcomed.

Treating your cat with the respect you would give a child is not only fun, it is important. Cats are living beings just as much as kids are. They feel, think (some more than others!), love, and need like kids. Having a child should be taken very seriously, and so should getting a cat. Both are responsibilities. Both need medical care, shelter, proper diet, and your time and affection. Both are lifelong commitments.

Of course, there are many aspects of cat-raising that are easier than raising a child. Cats don't go to college. They don't absolutely need a babysitter while you're at work. They litter box train quickly. Cats don't get speeding tickets. They don't throw temper tantrums at the movie theater. And at the end of a long day, what is more soothing - a purring loving cat or a puzzling, algebra equation?