I guess I've been very lucky when it comes to cats. I've had several in my life, all of which were very affectionate with me, especially the ones I raised from kittens.
One very smart cat, a male marmalade named Gizmo, I trained to retrieve bottle caps. I could call him with a meow, and he always came running. When he got into mischief I'd let out a scream meow which made him jump and head for cover.
When I slept, he'd hog as much of the bed as he could, legs and tail splayed out as he laid on his back. He learned early on that it wasn't a good idea to try to bat my nose in order to wake me, so he was patient about my slovenliness.
He was so trusting of me that I could take him for walks. I used to walk with him late at night about 10 blocks to a 7/11 store. I'd go in and buy a little can of cat food, and we'd sit down together while he ate his fill. We'd wait a few minutes while he cleaned himself as he purred, then walk back. He'd run around and sniff things as I walked, never more than ~ 30 yards away.
He died of FIP when he was only 2. I miss that little guy.
Opps, think i'm a bit late to post something here?
I'm more of a dog person, but i took care of a stray cat before. The way i see it, a cat's loyalty appeared when someone is weak or depressed. They would stay with you until you get back on your feet. Very maternal, nurturing type of affection.
I think they are better at it than a human parent. They know when to comfort you and stay with you till you are feeling better (without being intrusive) And once you're alright, they are perfectly fine to let your spread your wings and find your own way.
A dog is completely happy to follow your lead. But if you became weak, they assumed the role of alpha, but became highly strung and tense, no nonsense type of behaviour.
A cat is completely fine with taking over the reins once in awhile when you are unable to. And also totally cool with passing the leadership back to you when you get better.
Dogs can teach human to be sociable and a good team player.
Cats can teach human to be independent, but selfless in helping others when they need it.