According to the 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey, there are appx.88.3 million owned cats in the United States.  34% (38.4 million) of US households own at least one cat, and cat owners spent an average of $175.00 on routine veterinary visits.  These figures are a clear indication of the love between people and their cats.

Cats are generally known to be independent creatures.  If you own a cat you certainly know that they are great at bonding with people, even though they are particular about who they bond with.  Normally, it's the cat that choses the person or persons to bond with rather than the other way around, and the bond between cats and people are as unique as the cats and people are themselves.

It's anyone guess why cats choose a particular person(s) to bond with.  It could be the person's voice, manners, or simply how that person treats and interacts with the cat.  One cat may perfer a person that is really gentle, while another cat may perfer a person that is a little rough and forceful - each person bringing out the best in that particular cat.

Cats are pretty adapt to letting you know if they want to bond with you.  They may follow you around, hop on your lap seeking attention, rub against your legs or snuggle up to you at night when you are sleeping.  Purring is a sure indicator of affection and contentment.

Cats love to be pampered and will shower attention on you given the chance.  Cats also love to get attention, normally to make themselves feel good.  The more time you spend with your cat the more they will bond with you and seek your attention and affection.

If you are new to owning a cat you may find bonding to be very different than the way other animals, especially dogs, will bond to you, but be assured that once they have formed a bond with you they will be your companion for life.  Although, given their indepedent nature they sometimes have strange ways of showing their devotion to you.

Cats are much like any other animal, or human for that matter.  They are sensitive to their surrounding and the atmosphere in which they live.  Cats that are timid or unfriendly has likely been mistreated, abused or not socialized.  Befriending these cats can be a challenge and take lots of effort and patience.  For someone that has the time and patience to work with these cats, normally, but not always, you will be able to gain their confidence and have a truly devoted feline friend.

Unfortunately for some cats their distrust of humans or other animals, for whatever reason, can never be won and will live out their lives pretty much alone, even to the disassociation of other cats.

Cats make great companions and can be quite entertaining.  Given the right care and attention you and your cat(s) can enjoy many years of joy and companionship.