Considering getting a pet? Cats and dogs are two of the most popular household pets and they bring a lot of fun to your life, which is why so many people opt for one (or both) of these furry friends. There are benefits of each type of pet, but ultimately, the best one for you will need to fit your lifestyle. From personality to training and costs, take a look at some of the considerations below to help you decide what is the best pet for you.
Personality
When you’re comparing which is better, cats vs dogs, one of the first things to consider is their personality. While every animal is different, there are some key personality traits that will help you make an informed decision.
Dogs
Dogs are very social animals who enjoy companionship and generally want to be around their owners as much as possible. They are typically active and love going on walks, so they are the better choice if you want to share outdoor activities with your pet. Dubbed, “man’s best friend,” dogs are also known for being very loyal and obedient. However, certain dogs may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time, so keep this in mind if you have a tough work schedule. You also need to consider your social engagements if you have a dog and take them with you where possible.
Cats
Cats are a great choice for people who have busy schedules, but still want to have a pet at home. In general, they tend to be independent, intelligent, and clean. They can occupy themselves or nap for hours while you are at work or school. That being said, when you do come home, many cats will greet you with affection and purrs, showing that they really do care about you! Some will play with toys, while others won’t be interested in them.
Training
When it comes to training a dog vs cat, which is easier? Without a doubt, dogs take more energy and time to train, yet it is very worth it to have training!
Dogs
As the saying goes, you “can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” which is why it’s really important to train your dog when they are young. Dog training can be difficult, but it is really worth it because your dog will remember what they’ve been taught forever. A trained dog is a lot easier to manage and take care of than one with no training. Good behaviors taught when they are young last a lifetime. If you feed your puppy table scraps because they are so cuteand you can’t resist, it isn’t so cute when 5 years later your adult dog is begging for food while you are having a meal!
Cats
While dogs always need some type of training, cats can figure most things out on their own. You may need to show your cat where their litter box is, but other than that, they take care of themselves. It’s not common to train cats to do tricks or follow commands because it’s not in their nature to follow directions. Unlike dogs who are motivated by the pack mentality, cats are happy being their own boss.
Maintenance
If you’re wondering what is the best pet to have in terms of maintenance, then take a look at the considerations for each below.
Dogs
Dogs require a lot of maintenance, particularly as puppies. They will need to be taken outside frequently to relieve themselves and also to get exercise on walks. You will need to bathe your dog several times a month, though the exact amount will depend on their breed and specific needs. Just like a person, a dog will need their teeth brushed, nails trimmed, and hair cut if they have long hair. You also can’t leave your dog alone for long periods of time, like you can a cat. This means that if you work all day in an office, a dog might not be the best choice for you.
Cats
Cats require less upkeep than dogs, which makes their maintenance less regular and expensive than dogs. They will need their litter box cleaned once a day, but they do not need to be bathed or brushed like a dog because they clean themselves. Of course, you will still need to take your cat to the vet for regular checkups.
Cost
The pet you choose will need to fit your budget and lifestyle. From vet bills to boarding, take a look at some important economic considerations to make when choosing a furry friend.
Dogs
In general, dogs will be more expensive than cats. Not only are dog adoption fees often more expensive; spay/neutering fees, microchipping fees, and other vet bills can be more costly as well. The size of your dog will also have an impact on the cost, with larger dogs requiring more food, supplies, exercise, and space.
Cats
Cats, on the other hand, come at a relatively low cost. While you will still have to pay for vet bills, the bulk of the expenses for your cat will be in the first year. After initial shots and check-ups, you’ll have occasional costs like supplies, toys, food, and boarding for your cat when you travel. They are definitely the preferable pet if you are someone who likes to travel a lot because they do not experience separation anxiety in the same way that dogs do.
What is the Best Pet for Me?
Choosing the newest member of your family isn’t a decision you should take lightly. Whether you decide on a cat or a dog, you’re taking on a big responsibility. Don’t forget to consider factors such as allergies, or if the pet will get along with other animals, kids, and elderly members of the family. Allergies to pets with fur are common; it’s important to make sure that no one in the house is allergic to either cats or dogs.
Cat allergies are about twice as common as dog allergies, so make sure to ask your doctor for a test if you or a family member suspects an allergic reaction to animals. You can also do some research to determine if there are specific breeds that are hypo-allergenic or less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
If you’ve done your research and are ready to take on the joys and responsibilities of owning a pet, then congratulations! It’s time to go pick up your dog or cat. We’re certain they’ll become your new best friend in no time.
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