Compare and Contrast: Dogs or Cats -- Is There Really A Better Pet?
A dog or a cat: which would you choose? By nature, dogs are pack animals; they do best in an environment where they are surrounded by animals or people that can provide for them, even if their “pack” is only made up of one person. Because of their pack mentality, dogs desire attention and companionship. They enjoy being near their owner and dislike being left out or being alone. They do better when others are present--even other animals. They also instinctively want to please their leader, making them easy to train.
Unlike dogs, cats prefer solitude. They are very self-sufficient -- in the wild, they hunt alone and are rarely seen in groups. Their flexibility and sharp claws make it easier for them to sneak up on prey, escape danger, and defend themselves. Because of their independence, cats can be left alone for long periods of time. However, their self-sufficiency also makes them territorial and resistant to change. Therefore, they might not do well with moving or with the addition of another pet to the house. Cats are also very smart, and although it may take them longer than dogs, they feel gratitude towards the people that care for them. Some cats can even be let outside during the day and will return to their owners each night, ready to be let in. Although cats like their time alone, they also appreciate the attention from their owners. Cats are much easier to potty-train than dogs because they instinctively use the litter box.
Dogs can be content in any size house, as long as they are given time each day to go outside and get exercise. They thrive in families who lead active lifestyles.
Cats also thrive in any size of the house, but they do not need to be let outside each day to get their exercise. They often get their exercise by climbing around on furniture or chasing cat toys that their owners drag around the house.
Dogs are often much more expensive than cats because, in addition to food and vet bills, they require toys, training classes, and daycare for when their owners are on vacation or working long hours.
Cats, on the other hand, usually only rely on their owners for food. As for toys, they are content simply chasing the light given off by a flashlight or a piece of cloth tied to a stick. They also tend to require trips to the vet less often than dogs.
Cats and dogs have many differences to be considered when choosing a pet. Cats might be better pets for people who aren’t home as often or who live in a smaller home, while dogs might be better for active families who have much time to spend with their pets. However, not all dogs and cats fall into these categories. They might act differently due to their breed or simply their disposition. Either way, cats and dogs are both loving pets who serve as great companions to their owners.