Cats have a reputation for being the kind of animals who prefer their own company, thank you very much. But we know that's just a rumor. 

We hear it all the time: cats are aloof, independent, solitary little creatures who don't particularly need anyone around. That they only tolerate us because we feed them. That they would leave if the door wasn't locked. And although, sure, some cats can be perfectly happy doing their own thing, but we, as cat people, know there's a whole other side to them.

Cats can be so very loyal to the people they love. Some cats follow their humans from room to room as if they've been appointed purrsonal supervisors, while others happily curl up and cuddle with their humans. They have their own ways of showing love. Sometimes it's a gentle headbutt, sometimes it's sitting directly on your face in the middle of the night and singing the song of their people. Either way, they know how to make themselves part of the family. Even the most independent cat can have a favorite person.

And it's not just humans who get to enjoy that special feline affection. Cats can form the sweetest friendships with other animals. Take dogs, for example. They're so different, and yet plenty of cats decide that a dog can be their best friend. Then there are friendships with birds, animals a cat might normally be tempted to chase, but somehow end up sharing a home and a bond instead. And every now and then, cats make friends with even sillier little creatures, just to remind us that they clearly don't give a heck about the rulebook.

I think that's the one of the sweetest things about cats. They might take a little time to decide whether you're worthy of their attention, but once you've won them over, that's it. You're in. You've been accepted into their very exclusive circle, and they are not planning on giving up their spot beside you anytime soon. They will be loyal to you for a lifetime. Not all of them will run to greet you at the door, but don't let that fool you. They know who their family is, and when they love someone, they really do love them. Of course, they also expect everyone to respect their nap schedule and provide snacks on demand. It's a very serious commitment on both sides, really.

Which brings us to today's video. Maybe the most unexpected pairing of them all. Cats can even make friends with ducklings. These tiny little visitors have decided that momma cat looks like the purrfect place for a snuggle, and who are we to argue with such excellent and adorable judgment? Before long, the whole crew ends up in one big cuddle puddle, with the ducklings getting cozy alongside momma cat and her adorable kitten. There's clearly no room for purrsonal space in this relationship, and judging by the snuggle session, nobody is filing a complaint. Some cats really are just big softies, and this momma has apparently decided that her cuddle services are available to everyone.