Dogs and cats are two of the most popular pets in the whole world. Take the United State of America for an example, while 2.8% of American households own birds, 25.4% of households own a cat, while a whooping 38.4% households own a dog.
Even though there is a significant difference between Dog and Cat ownership in the US, it remains a fact, that these two amount to more than 60% of pet ownership in the US, (63.8 actually). So if you are considering a pet currently, chances may be that these two are among your options. But which of them should you get as a companion?
Aside from surficial differences between a Dog and a Cat, there are other areas of differences that make the duos unique. Now, here are ten of them to consider;
1. Exercise needs:
Dogs require more exercise than cats and need to be taken on regular walks or runs. Cats are more low-maintenance in this regard and can get their exercise through playtime at home. For the best fit, you must be ready to take your Dog on a walk or run once in a short while.
2. Training:
Dogs are more trainable than cats and can be taught a variety of commands and tricks. Dogs are also popularly used among security agents, for example, Police Dog is a familiar name in most countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and even Germany.
However, the story is not the same with Cat. Don’t miss me here; Cats can also be trained, but it can be more challenging and may require more patience.
3. Affection:
Both dogs and cats can be affectionate with their owners, but dogs are often more affectionate and crave more attention. Cats are more independent and may not demand as much attention. When given the opportunity, most Dogs would want to move around with their owners. The same can not be said about Cats.
4. Communication:
Dogs communicate through barking, whining, and body language, while cats communicate through meowing, purring, and body language. Your dog can be heard a distance away when distressed, but that is not the case with cats.
5. Diet:
Dogs and cats have different dietary needs and should be fed appropriately for their species. You may also likely spend more on the feeding of a Dog than a Cat. Even though their cost of food is almost the same, their body mass is not.
6. Grooming:
Both dogs and cats require grooming, but the frequency and type of grooming can vary one from the other. Dogs may need to be brushed more frequently and may require professional grooming, while cats are generally more self-sufficient groomers.
7. Lifespan:
Dogs generally have a longer lifespan than cats, with an average lifespan of 10-13 years for cats and 10-15 years for small dogs, and 7-10 years for larger dogs.
8. Cost:
Both dogs and cats have similar costs when it comes to things like food, toys, and basic care. However, dogs may have higher medical costs due to their longer lifespan and greater likelihood of requiring surgeries or other medical procedures.
9. Space:
Dogs typically need more space than cats and may do better in a house with a yard. Cats are more adaptable and can do well in apartments or smaller living spaces. So you should only get a Cat if your space is more like a single Apartment.
10. Energy level:
Dogs can have a wide range of energy levels, depending on their breed, and the average of these is generally higher than cats. Cats are known for their ability to sleep for long periods and may be more low-key than dogs.
While both dogs and cats can make great pets, it’s important to carefully consider which one is the right fit for you and your lifestyle. The ten points above should be able to help decide which of these amazing companions you should get.