What do you mean, "you can do far more things TO a bird", Popcornbird? LOL
I notice you get pretty passionate about the things you believe in, which is understandable. So surely you can see that others may have the same feelings about their chosen pets, beliefs, etc.?

My oldest daughter is like you, not only a lover of birds, but a bird magnet!! She could get "wild" birds to come to her! It was interesting to watch her when she was little, like a little St. Francis, or Earth Mother if you prefer . (She would!!)

I like birds a lot, but I love the feeling of my cat's furry purring when she stretches out next to me at night, as I read myself to sleep. I am sure there is a soft, purry bird out there somewhere that could do that, but he or she wouldn't be GRASSHOPPER. For that matter, no other cat could be her, either. And when she goes to the Rainbow Bridge, another cat will probably find me. Because of the wonderful times I have had with Grasshopper, that is the animal spirit I will most likely be looking for.

Just as you and birds are drawn to each other. There is no better or worse animal, just personal preference.