We all love to be loved. But when it comes to love, is it better to be loved by a partner, or unconditionally and eternally loved by a pet?

We think a pet. Always. Here are 9 reasons why they give the best kind of love.

#1 They’re Fluffy

Pets are so fun to pat — even if they’re not typically fluffy. Patting a pet, or even hanging out with them if you have pets that can’t be touched, is one of the greatest things you can do in life. They’re so soft and they love the attention. Plus, it’s an excellent bonding moment! Sure, you can always pat a partner but they’ll definitely look at you funny.

#2 They Don’t Care What You Look Like

Your pets do not care what you wear. They don’t care if you’ve brushed your hair. They don’t care if you’ve shaved, showered or moisturised. They don’t care if you haven’t got makeup on. They don’t care if you’ve spent the day binge-watching Netflix and snacking. They love you for you. And probably because you’re the one that feeds them.

#3 You’re Their Entire World

I get emotional when I think about how much my pets mean to me. Your pets aren’t going to cheat on you. They aren’t going to leave you for someone else. They might ignore you if they’re in a grumpy mood, but deep down, they love you—forever, through thick or thin.

#4 Caring For Them Is Super Easy

You don’t have to go through the effort of cooking a fancy meal for them. You don’t have to take them on dates. You don’t have do things with them that you loathe. They’re just happy to be around you—and they’re much cheaper than a human being.

#5 They Want To Be Around You

My dogs follow me around the house constantly. I can’t go to the toilet alone, or even have a bath. One of them couldn’t stand to be away from me so much that he literally jumped in the bath with me. And forget about having the bed to yourself! But you’re never alone, and never feel alone with a pet in your life.

#6 Napping With Them Warms Your Soul

Having a pet — who doesn’t even speak the same language as you — to trust you enough to sleep with you is the most beautiful thing in the world. One of my rats would break out of her cage, run through the house and climb into bed with me to snuggle into my neck. Unconditional love: this is what happiness truly feels like.

#7 They’re Cheap

Of course, you still buy your pets birthday, Christmas, Easter, Halloween and just-because presents. But they’re happy with the smallest things — like a new ball for a dog, a small toy for a cat, or even some snacks for rats. The same goes for most pets. They’re not interested in expensive technology, dinner dates or fancy holidays away. They just want your love!

#8 You Can Talk Endlessly To Them Without Judgement

I tell my pets everything – I sing to them, I ask how their day has been, I tell them I love them. They might give me funny looks, but at the end of the day, I can tell them anything and everything, and they still love me. Plus, they can’t share your secrets with anyone else!

#9 They Make Cute Noises

The sound of their paws tapping the floor, them drinking water, the cute sleep-noises and soft meows. Even the sound of a cat tearing up and down the hallway at 3am, or a dog barking as another dog passes are sweet.

Zoe is a journalist with a passion for all things wacky and strange. Like her on Facebook or follow her on Twitter for more!

(Lead image: Veronica Mars/The CW)