Cats vs Dogs-Which Pet is Best for You?
So you’re researching cats vs dogs and deciding which is best for you.
If you are wondering what things you should consider before taking a cat or dog home, then this post is for you.
Interestingly, while U.S. households own more dogs than other animals, there are still more cats overall in sheer number.
For example, cats are generally considered more independent, less demanding, and cheaper. On the other hand, dogs are very loyal, joyous, and submissive and can be trained, but they require a little more attention and care than cats.
You should also consider how much time you can give your pet, how much you can spend on your pets, and where to buy your pet.
Read on to learn more about cats vs dogs.
Amount of Attention Required
As a general rule, dogs require more attention than cats. Dogs crave closeness and attention. Having a dog can be comparable to having a young child.
One reason for this closeness is that dogs are “pack living animals”. In packs, each member cooperates to search for food and provide protection.
Each pack has an “alpha dog” that is the leader of other dogs. You must have seen this herd instinct in domestic dogs that makes them friendly, social, and the feeling of belonging to a family or even a single person.
It is the behavior of dogs to go wherever their pack or family goes, and this makes them easily accept experiences like traveling or moving.
That is why it is difficult for dogs to be left alone, especially for a more extended period.
In comparison, cats are solitary nocturnal hunters. In the wild, cats can jump and climb, which helps them hunt and makes it easier for them to escape danger.
Cats can fend off larger predators with the help of their sharp retractable claws.
Because of this, cats do not have to work together to take care of themselves. This is an instinct that makes domestic cats much more independent than dogs.
You may have noticed that cats sleep during the day and like to roam around the house at night.
This independent nature of cats helps them deal with being left alone at home.
Keep in mind that some breeds of cats are different and more social.
Life Expectancy
Generally, cats live longer than dogs.
The life expectancy of cats is largely dependent on whether they live indoors or outdoors.
While the numbers vary, you can expect an indoor cat to live normally 12-15 years old. However, some can live a lot longer with the oldest cat living until age 38.
Outdoor cats live on average until 8 years old.
On the other hand, the age expectancy of dogs depends more on the size of the dog. A bigger dog’s heart has to work harder to support its organs compared to a smaller dog.
Smaller dogs can frequently live to more than 15-16 years old such as chihuahuas, while medium and large size dogs often live between 10-13 years old.
However, the biggest breeds may only live from 7 to 8 years old.
For example, while a Great Dane is expected to live until 8 years old, a mini poodle is expected to live until 15 years old.
Space Requirements for Cats vs Dogs
Generally speaking, cats require less space than dogs. Based on their nature, cats do not need to run as much and usually sprint and expel energy quickly.
Cats generally exercise by playing with you and can satisfy their general hunting nature by stalking their toys. Because of this, cats don’t need a lot of space to roam.
The layout of your home is also more important than the amount of space. Cats like to climb and hide, so prefer less open spaces.
Cats can become stressed if they do not have a place to hide.
With dogs, their space requirements depend more on their breed rather than their size.
Dogs, regardless of their size, can be comfortable in most spaces from small apartments to large houses, as long as they get enough exercise.
So if you can take your dog for a walk or you can give him space in the backyard to play, then a dog is still suitable for a small apartment.
Some breeds like to work and move constantly, so it is harder to keep them happy in small spaces.
How Easy to Train
When it comes to training, dogs are easier to train than cats overall.
Dogs can follow your orders and are generally more obedient in nature due to their pack mentality.
The dog training process includes training and reinforcement commands that can help you communicate your desire to your dogs. Dogs are happy to fulfill those wishes.
However, keep in mind that some breeds have temperament problems and are more difficult to train.
Cats are normally difficult to train; they can be trained but not as thoroughly as dogs. It takes a lot of patience and regular practice.
However, with potty training, cats are easier to train. It usually take only one showing of where the litter box is, and cats will instinctively use the litter box.
On the other hand, it can take patience and repetition to train a dog, especially puppies, of where to go to the bathroom.
Costs of Owning a Cat vs Dog
Overall, dogs are more expensive to own than cats.
This is true despite cats living longer than dogs.
It has been estimated that dogs cost $126.19 each month on average vs $92.98 for cats.
Some reasons for this cost difference is that dogs can require more food based on their size, plus cats are more low maintenance.
For example, cat food can cost from $100-$200 per year, while dog food can cost from $250-$800 per year.
Vet bills are also more expensive for dogs ranging from $500 to $5000 per year, while cats can be around $160 per year.
Additionally, dogs require more grooming and bathing, especially if they have long hair.
Products Required to Buy
Dogs generally need these products such as:
- Water bowl
- Food bowl
- Leash
- Treats
- Collar
- Toys
- Dog bed
Typically cats require these products such as:
- Water and a food bowl
- Toys
- Grooming brush
- Sometime collar and cat bed
- Litter box.
Conclusion
While dogs and cats are both great pets, one may be better for you than another.
You should consider your budget, space in your home, and your available time to help determine which one is best.
Let us know which one you chose below!
