Cats or dogs? This epic rivalry between these pampered pets has raged for centuries and shows no sign of coming to an end. Cat lovers will always insist that their more independent but still cuddly moggies have the competitive edge, while dog people are quick to point out that their precious pooches are far friendlier.
The truth is, whether you’re a feline fanatic or an Alsatian admirer, both cats and dogs require many of the same things to thrive: a loving home, nutritious food, shelter, exercise and veterinary care. So, if you’re ready to bring a pet into your lives, get a head start by researching local veterinarians, reviewing pet insurance options, pet-proofing your home, etc.
In the end, to any true animal lover, it’s not about which animal is superior, but which pet would make a better fit for your lifestyle.
Wondering whether you and your family are best suited to a dog or a cat? Just answer these 4 questions in the guide below.
1) Are you a fitness fanatic?
If you love going on your morning run or want to encourage your kids to be more active, a dog is the pet for you. Not only will a dog provide excellent companionship and a running buddy to spur you on, but larger dogs also make fantastic protectors for those who prefer to exercise after dark.
What about cats? Let’s face it — your feline friend is more likely to keep you company on the couch while you watch Netflix than follow you for a run.
2) Do you spend most of your day out of the house?
Dogs are known for their loving, affectionate nature. However, this means that they’re also a bit higher maintenance. If your entire family spends most of the day out of the house, a dog probably isn’t the pet for you. Dogs need regular exercise and can also become stressed without a present, attentive owner.
Cats, however, are more self-sufficient, though they still require a lot of companionship and caretaking. While personalities between animals can differ, cats are generally more independent creatures. Your kitty might love to sit down for a cuddle in the evenings, but she’s also far less likely to tear up the living room if you leave her alone for the day.
3) Do you have young children?
Raising a pet alongside young children can have a whole host of benefits, from fostering empathetic behavior to building up your kids’ immune systems. However, it’s important that you do your research before adding a cat or dog to the family.
While any animal can act out when put in a stressful situation (such as tail-pulling), cats are more prone than dogs to experience significant anxiety when faced with young children and particularly new babies. Though this can be managed with veterinary help, a child-friendly dog breed, such as an easy-going Golden Retriever or a playful Boxer is more likely to match your current family situation.
4) Are you an anxious person?
A recent study found that self-proclaimed dog lovers are less neurotic than cat owners. However, research has yet to determine whether anxious people simply relate better to cats or because dogs actively reduce neuroticism.
Although these findings are vague, it makes sense that adding a cuddly canine to your family could help with your anxiety levels. Unlike many cats, most dogs are almost always up for a snuggle. Cuddling with your pets actually releases oxytocin, a feel-good hormone, into your bloodstream. This combats stress. Additionally, regular exercise (like taking your dog for a long walk) triggers anxiety-fighting endorphins that will help keep your stress-levels down!
Once you’ve answered these four questions, you can make a more informed choice about whether a cat or a dog is your ideal pet. In the end, whichever animal you choose, you’ll be making a friend for life.
