Who is better than a cat or a dog - we understand the eternal dispute over pets.

Cats versus dogs - an age-old confrontation has developed not only between two types of animals, but also between their owners: everyone is ready to endlessly prove that their pet is worthy of the title of the best pet. But what if you love both dogs and cats equally and can't decide which animal is best for you?

2 Life with a dog
3 Dog or cat - which one to choose
4 A dog and a cat in the same territory: the possibility of coexistence
4.1 Video: friendship between dogs and cats

We are so different…

As you know, all people are different. By temperament, character, lifestyle, views and values. Psychologists, philosophers and sociologists are racking their brains trying to divide them into types and subtypes. Whatever the criterion, the people selected according to it will still not be alike each other always and in everything. For some it’s watermelon, for others it’s a bacon sandwich. And although there are common clichés about the psychological characteristics of dog people and cat people, when you try to apply them to living people, they sometimes fall apart like a house of cards. And how is it possible, with such diversity, to decide once and for everyone who is better?

I’ll tell you more, the division into dog lovers and cat lovers is also very arbitrary. For many people, cats and dogs coexist perfectly in the same apartment. And sometimes it also happens like this: there lived an inveterate cat lover, he bought rabbit fillets at the ABC of Taste for four purebred cat faces, he couldn’t stand these loud, unkempt mongrels... And then, returning from work, he saw a dying puppy by the road - dirty, sick and mongrel.

Who is smarter, better - cats or dogs and why: the best answers

Each animal not only brings positivity to its owner, but also performs useful work.

For example, dogs are often bought to guard the house, or as guide dogs, and of course, thanks to their sociability and pliability, they are often called family members.
Cats are gentle, affectionate, but by nature they are loners, but according to statistics, cats are owned much more often than dogs. The main goal in a cat’s life is hunting, which is why, even sitting in an apartment, within four walls, the cat trains a lot: attacks, runs after toys, etc.
A characteristic feature of all cats is considered to be rational intelligence. Cats can be selective and inventive, but only in those matters that are truly important to them. If a cat is interested in something, it is impossible to tear him away from an exciting activity.
The cat is considered one of the most attentive animals, in this the dog is inferior. This can be understood by placing the furry cat in a new environment; before starting its usual activities, the cat carefully studies the new place. Also, unlike dogs, cats very quickly find a cozy and warm place to sleep.
Cats are not only attentive, but also wary of everything. The found item will first be sniffed, and then may be touched with its paw; subsequently, if the item turns out to be safe, the cat simply ceases to be interested in it. This ability allows you to survive in various conditions.
Both cats and dogs are able to remember their name; of course, dogs are more trainable and easier to train, but cats can also be taught some primitive commands (for example, going to the toilet in the same place).

Who is better?
Due to the fact that dogs have less developed sensory intelligence, and with it the sharpness of movements in catching prey, dogs need to be in a pack. Perhaps this genetic feature provoked the communication skills of dogs and the development of social intelligence. Therefore, dogs understand people much better, because... Humans also have social intelligence. Dogs are excellent at reading and deciphering human gestures, which helps with communication. Also, it is often observed that dogs help their owners, for example, find this or that thing.

It is quite difficult to accurately answer the question of who is better and smarter: dogs or cats, because each type of pet is unique and has its own positive and useful traits. Each pet is the best in one area or another, dogs are intellectually developed and are able to communicate with people and each other, and cats are the best predators that can catch large prey in relation to their weight in a short time.

A dog and a cat in the same territory: the possibility of coexistence

Hostility between dogs and cats is not exactly a stereotype: dogs often drive cats into trees, and cats, in turn, snap at dogs. However, the coexistence of these animals in the same territory is quite possible.

If you cannot choose between a cat and a dog, then the best solution would be to take a small puppy and a kitten at the same time: when animals grow up together, they perceive each other as relatives. If you already have an adult dog or cat, then the second pet should still be a newborn: in this case, the adult will perceive the baby as a small animal of its own species that needs to be taken care of.

It would be a mistake to hope that two adults can get along together right away - you will need a lot of patience, but in the end you will still fail.

Video: friendship between dogs and cats

When choosing a pet, you should be guided by many factors, the main one of which is your expectations from communication with the animal. If you want complete emotional and physical input, your choice is a sociable dog; If you value aesthetics and more subtle relationships most of all, feel free to get a cat. But, if you can’t choose between two wonderful animals, don’t be afraid and get a kitten and a puppy: growing up together, they will become best friends and will take care of each other all their lives.

Who is better - a puppy or a kitten?

Let's start from the beginning, that is, from childhood. You brought a fluffy ball home - who will give you the least trouble and trouble while growing up? Of course, no cat can destroy an apartment like a large breed puppy who is teething. A cat will not dismantle parquet flooring, will not dig holes in the concrete floor, will not sharpen the legs of the sofa with its teeth and will not tear your best boots to pieces. But the dog will grow up and settle down, you will make repairs, buy yourself boots that are more beautiful than before and forget all this like a bad dream.

But the hooligan cat won’t even think about settling down. If he likes to rip wallpaper off the walls, hang on curtains, throw fragile objects off tables and shelves, and tear upholstered furniture with his claws, then he will do this all his life. You can fight with him and try to wean him off, but we would not advise you to count on guaranteed success. And some cats have a very special relationship with shoes. No, the cat won’t eat your shoes or even tear off the soles, but you still won’t be able to wear them anymore, just believe me.

Place of residence

An animal is a family member, a friend. You also need to find a place or corner for it in the house where it will sleep. You can, of course, have your pet sleep on the bed with its owner. But if the Saint Bernard weighs 60 kg, and is more than a meter long. Inconvenient and unhygienic.

Families with small living spaces should consider this issue before purchasing a large breed puppy.

Communication

A person does not have a pet as an attribute and a soulless creature. In the future, he plans to communicate with him, play and show his love. Dogs are capable of reciprocal feelings, cats, in turn, do this when they want. Some individuals never sit in the owner’s arms at all, do not allow themselves to be stroked or show tenderness.
Dogs can feel the owner, while cats think in most cases only about themselves. The first ones are able to wait for the owner from work simply because they are bored. The second ones meow and ask for food, after which they move away until the next signal from the stomach.
All this must be taken into account if you are planning to connect your life with a four-legged pet. Only some feline representatives are capable of showing sincere feelings. Most of them close themselves off from communication, which in itself is unacceptable. Because a person simply won’t be able to get close to the cat.

Pros and cons to consider when choosing a dog

Advantages

For a blind person, such a friend will be a lifesaver.

The need to walk the dog and play with it. Mobility, fresh air, and regularity never hurt anyone.
The pet's diet does not require any special frills. He will eat what is offered.
They are quicker to train.
Boundless devotion, up to the need to give his life for the owner.
The dog always shares the problems and mood of the owner. She is a true friend.
In certain situations, a dog is more necessary. He is an indispensable assistant. Hunters, blind people, children suffering from autism - this is an incomplete list of such cases.
A barking animal is more popular as a “bodyguard” and watchman.

Flaws

Every time after visiting the street, your pet needs to wash its paws.

Walking cannot be postponed. This is a daily procedure, in any weather.
A dog cannot be litter box trained.
The dog has a hard time with loneliness.
Barking or howling in an apartment becomes a problem because every neighbor hears it.
Expensive maintenance and the need for sufficient space. This is especially true for large individuals.
The need for frequent bathing and washing paws after walks.
A specific smell of wool, even after washing in some breeds.

Cleanliness

If you live in a city apartment, this argument will have weight when deciding whether it is better to have a cat or a dog in the house. Both will have to be toilet trained. And it is possible that the dog will learn faster: dogs are generally well trained, and at a young age they even grasp everything on the fly.

And most importantly, if a dog is healthy, having learned to go outside, it will no longer crap in the house. An exception may be cases when urinary incontinence is caused by some disease, for example, cystitis, or excessive emotionality. But a dog does not deliberately mark an apartment in order to prove something to someone or simply to mark its territory, but cats and even cats are quite capable of this. By leaving their excrement in a visible place in the apartment, they can defend their place in the hierarchy or expel the smell of a stranger from the house.

About the smell

The urine of these animals has different concentrations. The dog drinks more water and its urine is highly diluted because the dog needs to mark large areas. In addition, the tongue is the only organ responsible for cooling the dog’s body, which is why in hot weather the dog’s need for water increases greatly. Cats, compared to dogs, drink little; cat urine is much more concentrated, has a more pungent odor, which takes longer to dissipate.

At the same time, dogs smell on their own, while cats have no smell at all perceptible to the human sense of smell. A dog that has walked in the rain or has just been washed will emit a slight dog odor, more intense in breeds with thick undercoat. But you can feel it from dry, clean wool only if you stick your nose into it. By the way, many owners, strange as it may sound, love this smell and love to bury their face in the pet’s fur.

Cats vs dogs: who loves their owners more?

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Cats vs dogs: who loves their owners more?

Cats or dogs? An eternal dilemma that everyone resolves in their own way. Do you like cats? Welcome! Dogs? “We have them!” There are convinced “cat people”, there are fanatical “dog people”. The armies are irreconcilable, but coexist quite normally. Some people have both cats and dogs: this point of view also has every right to life. We have devoted many publications to all these issues on Ilike.pet; those who wish can delve into our archives. And yet: which pet loves its owners more? Finally, whose love is selfless?

For some reason, the prevailing point of view is that dogs receive more human love. And they pay people in return. Do you agree with this point of view, dear readers? Let's try to figure it all out.

The joint evolution of humans and dogs (there is such a term in the world of science as “coevolution”) dates back approximately 32,000 years. Plus or minus. Man chose a hunting assistant, protector and watchman from among gray wolves, making attempts to domesticate them. Much water has flown under the bridge since that time. Many hypotheses have been put forward in this regard. Only one thing is true: the man and the dog confidently went on through life together.

Coevolution is not only the joint evolution of species, but also their mutual influence. Dogs, in particular, have learned a lot from humans. And how far they have gone from their ancestors - those same gray wolves! The main thing to note is that dogs have learned to sense a person and his mood. They are subject to emotions! Are you sad, ill, restless at heart? Your faithful dog will definitely come to you and console you. It cannot be otherwise.

Yes, you can no longer equate modern dogs and wolves. Evolution has meant that humans have bred dogs for both practical and aesthetic reasons. Of all the animals, the friendliest, most loyal, and suitable for their range of tasks were selected for further breeding.

What about cats? Cats, at a certain stage in their evolution, realized that being close to a person was great. Plus, it's practical. Food, protection and a roof over your head. In exchange for these blessings of life, you can let yourself be stroked, purred, or rubbed against your legs. “It won’t be enough for us,” that’s probably how the cats reasoned. And they were right! You have to be smart—to “domesticate” on your own terms, without losing your “independence.”

Scientists believe that the process of domesticating cats is about 8,000 years old. Or a little more. Most likely, the domestication of cats coincided with the advent of agriculture, when humans needed help in the fight against rodent pests.

The cats quickly realized that such a life has only one benefit! Perhaps the tabby-tailed animals even overestimated their own importance. Accordingly, they didn’t learn anything from the person – they were so good. “Coevolution” stopped before it really began. Let's put a wolf and a dog next to each other: is the difference noticeable? Of course, and what a one! And the cat and the ancient cat? Hmm...we're afraid we'll only see two cats. No one will be able to determine which of them is “ancient”.

It is known that there is no limit to perfection. In the case of cats, this truth does not apply: cats are already perfection in themselves. Something like this!

There is no doubt that modern cats are not so wild and more friendly to people compared to their ancestors. But everything in the world is relative. Yes, there are affectionate and very flexible creatures, but it seems that we are talking about individual breeds, bred by the hard work of breeders and breeders. A wild, unsociable cat is not at all uncommon, you will agree. Try taming a feral cat and see what you can do. Now feed the abandoned dog. The result is known in advance, and the cats lost this round outright.

What conclusion can we draw, dear “dog people” and “cat people”? Let's start with you, dear dog lovers. Your heart should be calm: the love is completely mutual. You love your dog, the dog loves you.

Let's move on to you, fellow cat lovers. You sincerely love cats... And yes, you have to put an end to this. In the end, your love is accepted favorably, and that too is worth a lot. Well, love itself is a transitory feeling, isn’t it?

Photo: pixabay.com

Mr. Cat recommends: who is smarter - a dog or a cat?

You can argue about who is smarter. But only with a specific task in mind. And although both are predators, their hunting methods are different.

Representatives of the canine family prefer to starve out their prey, attacking it after a grueling chase. This method developed their ability to cooperate and social intelligence.

Domestic cats prefer to hunt alone, attacking from ambush, investing their energy in an accurate and swift throw. To succeed here you need to have excellent control of your body. It is impossible to do without developed sensorimotor intelligence.

Scientist neuroscientist Alexey Piskunov believes that cats cope with the tasks assigned in the laboratory no worse than dogs. But they are more difficult to motivate. Moreover, the number of neurons in a cat’s brain is almost twice that of a dog.

In a dispute about who is smarter, cats or dogs, each side will find more and more new arguments. The question relates rather to the psychology of a particular person.

Cats vs. dogs: who is faster?

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Cats vs. dogs: who is faster?

Get ready for an interesting read, dear pet lovers, “cat people” and “dog people.” Today we will try to find out which of the pets is “the best.” This time we'll make them compete in speed! Do you think the winner of the race is known in advance? No matter how it is! Read the article, let's be surprised together!

There can be a lot of discussion about which animal is preferable, a cat or a dog. This is the stumbling block for entire armies of animal fans. As soon as they meet, cat lovers and dog lovers begin to sort things out: which of their pets is the most intelligent, affectionate, loyal - and so on ad infinitum.

Today we have a competition on who is the fastest, a cat or a dog. If you look at the issue purely from a scientific point of view (the battle of the respected families of cats and dogs), then the former will emerge victorious: the fastest cat in the world (cheetah) is much faster than the fastest dog. Cheetahs are, rather, sprinters: in pursuit they can easily give out a spurt and reach speeds of up to 110 km/h. More than any other car.

How can dogs respond? The Greyhound is considered the fastest breed. The dog is able to “squeeze” an impressive 69.2 km/h. An excellent result, but... As the famous cartoon hero used to say, it won’t be enough!

But why can both the cheetah and the greyhound run so fast? The fact is that these animals, having a unique anatomy, have perfectly mastered the technique of the so-called rotating gallop. The cheetah, in particular, develops incredible speed thanks to muscles consisting of different types of fibers. The forelimbs contain those muscles that can work for a long time. In this case, little energy is expended, the animal does not get tired. This is enough for leisurely movement. But when it is necessary to accelerate sharply, the cat uses more powerful muscles located on the hind limbs. Under load, they get tired very quickly, but their capabilities are enough to catch up with the victim and win a quick victory. In addition, cheetahs have a unique elastic skeleton: during the spurt, it completely stretches, providing the owner with long jumps of 6-7 meters in length.

But now we will be reproached for a not entirely correct comparison: after all, not every cat owner can boast of a pet cheetah! Therefore, we need to compare our more familiar domestic cats and dogs. Let's not argue!

And here the victory will remain with the dogs - they are definitely faster. However, since we are talking about the correctness of the comparison, we must emphasize: it depends on what breed of cats, it depends on what breed of dogs. And then the cats still have a chance to win back!

The fastest breed of dog is the Greyhound (a group of greyhounds), we just talked about it. But in general, dogs of many breeds are able to reach high speeds, in the operating range of 56-65 km/h. Let us note the noble Hungarian Vizsla - a very fast animal. For a Vizsla, a speed of 64-65 km/h is not the limit. Let's put the Jack Russell Terrier in third place with a respectable 61.2 km/h. The Dalmatian takes an honorable fourth place: his result is 59.5 km/h.

You can’t say anything, these wonderful animals can run very fast! But how will our furry pets respond? What about their speed data?

Among domestic cats, the Egyptian Mau firmly holds the gold. These wonderful cats accelerate up to 48.5 km/h and can easily give a head start to many dogs!

Among the “magnificent sprinters” we will also include the Abyssinian cat, the Somali cat, and the Bengal cat. Their results are only slightly worse than those of the “absolute” champion Egyptian Mau.

Did our article seem lacking in content to you? You have a chance to check everything yourself and arrange your own demonstration competitions. True, you will have to work hard: during the race, the dog will get carried away by some impudent squirrel, and the cat, under plausible pretexts, will completely leave the race. It’s a shame that we can’t organize our own Olympic Games for our favorites! It would be a truly epoch-making event, you must agree!

Photo: pixabay.com; zooproblemnet.ru, uadog.com.ua (from open sources). From: cuteness.com

Lifestyle

Indeed, a significant consideration when choosing whether to get a cat or a dog is the amount of exercise your future pet needs to live a full life. A large, active dog that requires long walks and a lot of physical activity is not at all suitable as a pet for elderly or not very healthy people.

On the other hand, it all depends on what exactly the person is sick with. For example, regular walks with a small, middle-aged dog can prolong the life of a person with a heart condition, and cardiologists strongly recommend such gentle exercise. If you are young and full of energy, walking your dog in any weather will be even more beneficial for you, but there may be a question of time.

Dog

Dogs also have a number of advantages that furry pets do not have.

About the benefits

Despite all the advantages of a cat, many believe that the best pet is still a dog. They love her, first of all, for her boundless devotion. Few people can remain indifferent to these eyes, full of trust in a person, in which the readiness to do anything for him shines. Even give your life.

A dog is a true friend who will not leave you in trouble. You can find a lot of articles and news about how a pet saved people from fire, pulled a drowning person to shore, protected him from criminals, etc. Next to a faithful dog you always feel safe, and also not alone.

A dog is often better as a pet if there are children in the family. She will happily play with them and entertain them, and many breeds are ideal nannies. Children with autism are encouraged to interact with dogs. It has a healing effect on them. A dog is indispensable as a guide dog for blind people.

Life with a cat

Cats are independent, but sensitive and friendly animals.

Cats take a confident first place in the love and recognition of Internet users - you can watch videos with funny animals for hours. But what is life like with a feline? Let's look at all the pros and cons (which, unfortunately, exist).

It should be remembered that the independent nature of cats is not a stereotype: they really prefer to exist on their own and do not like it when someone intrusively invades their personal space. This fact is both a plus and a minus, depending on your character. If you are introverted and prefer solitude to communication and games, you will definitely enjoy living with a cat. But this does not mean that the cat should be deprived of attention: it simply needs to be dosed. You should feel when the cat is ready to communicate, and at what moments it is better to leave him alone.

Cats can bring a lot of pleasant emotions

A huge advantage of cats is that they do not hide their affection or hostility. If an animal wants your affection, it will come up to you and begin to rub itself, inviting you to communicate. If the cat does not allow you to approach him or evades your hand, it means that he wants to be alone for some time. These signs are usually easy to read, but for some reason many people still consider cats to be too mysterious creatures.

Let's move on from the nature and subtleties of communication to a more practical issue: hygiene. Unlike dogs, cats do not need to be walked - therefore, they do not need constant bathing. Cats are extremely clean: they wash themselves several times a day, and they can take baths, which they hate, no more than once every six months or a year. Washing cats is a separate issue: these animals hate water, so a cat shower turns into torture for both the animal and its owners. The solution will be shampoo without rinsing: they have a convenient dispenser and a pleasant aroma, so that with it hygiene procedures will become more enjoyable for all participants.

A cat will keep even a small child company - but make sure it doesn’t scratch your child

It is important to pay attention to the quality of food: cats have rather sensitive bodies, and the life of an animal on cheap, questionable food significantly loses in quality and duration. At first, you should give your cat different flavors of food of the same brand and thus identify its preferences. Don't forget about treats - but not from your table: from time to time give your cat malt paste or special pads for removing hair, and don't forget about delicacies - such as good canned food and steamed fish.

Despite the fact that cats, due to their lifestyle, are ideal for lazy owners, the animal should never be deprived of activity. Cats love to play with fishing rods and, in general, anything that they can catch and jump for. Remember that a cat is a predator: do not deprive it of the pleasure of hunting, even for toys. But if it occurs to the cat to play with you in a predatory way (grab your hand, jump, bite), stop this immediately and show your dissatisfaction. These small animals can cause serious injuries - their claws and fangs are quite sharp, and in the rush of play, the cat may forget that you are not a victim, but his loving owner.

Love a cat and he will love you back; but the favor of this animal must be earned

Perhaps one of the main advantages of a cat is that caring for it is extremely simple. Most animals become litter-trained instantly, and if you choose the right litter, you will never smell any unpleasant odors. The fur of a cat is also completely devoid of strong aromas - on the contrary, all lovers of these pets note a very pleasant, pheromone-like smell behind the ears, which is reminiscent of sweet pastries.

CAT OR DOG: who to choose?

If your own home at one point suddenly seemed insufficiently cozy without a warm fluffy ball rushing towards you, then it’s time to buy a four-legged friend. It remains to decide who you need: the one who purrs deafeningly, rubs his feet and snorts nervously, or the one who barks noisily, knocks his claws on the parquet and slobbers his household with joyful kisses?

So, you are wondering: should you buy a tailed pet or not? Don't rush into a decision. There is no need to take an animal into your home if you are not prepared for the fact that it, like any living creature, will be sick, tired, mope, whine and demand attention. Your expectations may differ significantly from reality: after you play with your pet for a week and boast to your friends that you have an “amazing animal”, you will become sober. You will understand that not only joy has increased, but also troubles. And from now on, you are not just the owner of the animal, you are responsible for someone else’s life: that is, you are obliged not only to feed the pet, but also to educate it, entertain it, monitor its well-being and mood. Are you ready for this role?

To decide who exactly you need - a cat or a dog - think about this in your spare time. If you are closed, unsociable, irritated by the violent manifestation of other people’s emotions, get ready for the fact that the dog, having showered its love on you, will begin to hope for reciprocity, namely, wait for confirmation that it is needed, it is adored. If you can't reciprocate your dog's feelings, there's a good chance he'll grow up to be a sullen misanthrope. However, do not think that the cat can be left without affection. It’s just that, unlike dogs, cats prefer a quiet and restrained expression of feelings. They should not be squeezed like a dog, ruffled by the ears, ruffled their fur or lightly touched with their feet. The cat will gratefully accept only stroking - all other caresses, especially rough ones, will be perceived as an insult and will be offended. Admit it, are you weak-willed, easily succumbing to the influence of others, in personal and professional relationships you always play the role of a follower, and never a leader? Then think, can you become a leader for your dog? Dogs, unlike cats, are suggestible, susceptible to the influence of the owner and agree to submission. But only if they feel strength and authority in a person. If you fail to convince the dog that you are the leader and not his precious person, he will sit on your head. In this sense, it is simpler with cats: not only do they not need a commander, but they themselves do not strive to command. The main thing for a cat is that his interests and desires are not infringed upon, that he is allowed to do what he considers necessary, and that he is not bothered unnecessarily.

It is generally accepted that a cat is an introvert, a dog is an extrovert. The cat is selfish, a sole worker, on her own mind. The dog is a good guy, the life of the party, and cannot stand loneliness. A cat's self-esteem is normal, sometimes inflated, turning into delusions of grandeur. A dog is a doubting creature, its self-esteem depends on how the owner looked - affectionately or contemptuously, and sometimes sinks to the level of self-deprecation. Animal psychologists, specialists who study animal psychology, chuckle and talk about the difference between a cat and a dog in this way: “Any dog is sure of the following: “My owner loves me, looks after me, feeds me, which means he is God.” Unlike dogs, cats believe: “The owner loves me, takes care of me and feeds me - that means I am God.” From here we can draw some conclusions: if you are a friendly person, like to be among people and surround yourself with people, you have many friends and acquaintances for whom your home is always hospitably open, it will not be difficult for you to get along with a dog. The fact is that open, sociable, emotional people perceive a dog’s devotion, fidelity and, ultimately, strong dependence on the owner with the understanding that they themselves depend on other people. But to closed single people, for whom loneliness is not a punishment but a reward, dog devotion seems like an obsession and fawning. For such a person, a cat is the best friend, because she is by nature a loner, sacredly guarding the boundaries of her personal space. By the way, psychologists even came up with a half-joking division into dog people and cat people, taking as a basis the scales “extraversion - introversion”, “communication skills - withdrawal” and “distance “I and others”. A dog person usually reacts to a cat (animal): “This cat doesn’t care about me at all!” And the cat person will most likely say about the dog: “She is too noisy and intrusive.” An interesting point: animal psychologists have noticed that dogs enthusiastically get involved in family scenes, be it a scandal or jubilation. They jump around their owners, bark loudly, trying to attract attention. Cats try not to participate in family squabbles; they prefer tactfully not to interfere in other people's lives. However, if one of the household members has trouble or is not feeling well, the cat is right there: she lies down next to or on the place where it hurts and begins to “heal”. And, surprisingly, the nerves really calm down and the mood improves.

And one more piece of advice. Refrain from buying a “living toy” if your life involves constant absence and travel. Firstly, the animal left without an owner will be bored (here both cats and dogs suffer equally). And secondly, you will never be able to become close friends: having realized that the owner is a “visitor,” the dog or cat will not want to become attached to him as a loved one. The less you love, the less you cry. The natural instinct of self-preservation will work: “He often leaves me, I don’t want to suffer.” Why do you need a friend who doesn’t consider you close?

Cost of keeping cats and dogs

There is an opinion that a cat is much cheaper to keep because it eats little. But only at first glance. If you compare the cost of cat and dog food of the same brand, you will notice that the same volume for the former costs more than for the latter.

At the same time, dogs, as you have probably already noticed, vary greatly in size. And any Papillon, not to mention a toy terrier, is unlikely to be able to eat much more than a cat. And since you will feed him dog food, it will cost you less. However, you will have to buy at least one collar and leash, and small dogs often require clothing for walks in cold weather, some also require regular haircuts, so we can say that keeping a dog, on average, still costs more.

Cats, in addition to food, only need filler, but this is not so simple either. Firstly, cats have individual characteristics. Give one some sawdust, another - something to rustle under his paws, the third prefers fine clay, and the fourth is an intellectual who only goes to see the Literary Gazette.

You can, of course, accustom a cat to a litter box with bars, but the benefits of this method are not entirely obvious. After all, you will have to wash the tray clean after each cat visit, because if the cat wants to go twice in a row, and the tray is dirty, then you will also have to wash the floor. You will be tortured. And the smell quickly spreads throughout the apartment at the slightest delay in cleaning, which you and your guests are unlikely to like.

Dog or cat - which one to choose?

Many people prefer not to choose between a cat and a dog

Choosing a pet depends entirely on your personality—even more than your preferences. You may love dogs, but if you prefer solitude and are not ready to devote all your free time to your pet, you will not get along with them. And vice versa - if you watch videos with kittens on the Internet with emotion, this does not mean that you will not be disappointed by the coldness and detachment of cats in real life. A pet should fit your lifestyle and your priorities.

So, you should give preference to a dog if:

you are friendly and sociable;
you love walks at any time of the day and in any weather;
you are ready to devote a lot of time to caring for the animal;
you don’t get tired of constant attention and frequent games;
you live in a large apartment or country house.

And a cat is more suitable for you if:

you prefer to spend time alone with yourself;
you are not ready to devote a lot of time to caring for your pet;
you have enough patience to indulge your pet’s whims;
you do not have the opportunity to walk with the animal even once a day;
you are clean and sensitive to smells.

Advantages and disadvantages of dogs

Man's best friend is not called that for nothing. Probably no other creature can compare with his willingness to cooperate with him. Over the years of living together with the owner, the dog is able to become a member of the family.

There are many dog breeds in the world. We offer a top of 6 friendly and sociable representatives for novice owners:

Golden Retriever - with a balanced character, active and friendly to people, often used as a guide or rescue dog.
Collie, a Scottish Sheepdog, is smart, with luxurious fur, and is rightly called a nanny.
The Labrador Retriever is active, cheerful, easy to train, and gets along well with children.
The Border Collie is one of the smartest breeds in the world and is rapidly gaining popularity today.
The Jack Russell Terrier is active and cheerful, loves children.
The German Shepherd is a breed popular all over the world, used for everything except hunting.

Problems of mutual existence of a person and a dog

The owner of a small puppy should walk him 4 times a day. Regardless of your mood or well-being. It is necessary to keep the baby busy by offering special toys. Otherwise, he will have fun on his own. For example, chewing on shoes. And you can't blame him for that.

Attachment

A dog is a more faithful and devoted friend to its owner than a cat. Even feature films are made about friendship and mutual understanding between a person and a dog. These are films such as “Hachiko” or “White Bim-Black Ear”.

A large or small dog needs family and communication in the same way as people do. The pet doesn’t care where to go, where to spend the night, as long as it is with the person: to guard, protect, work. These qualities are inherent in nature. After all, the wild dog lived and lives in a pack, which makes it easier to get food and survive.

And cats are independent predators. Their sense of herd is not developed. Although, pet cats know, love and willingly communicate with the owner. But kisuli are most attached to the house in which they live. This is probably why cats are endowed with a magical gift. Popular beliefs say that cats not only absorb negative energy, but also protect the apartment and residents from evil spirits. To do this, the cat is the first to be brought into the new home.

Sociability

Here, it would seem, clear leadership should belong to the dog. Indeed, in its attunement to humans, a dog has no equal in nature. Since childhood, dogs living with a person simply breathe love for him. And if the owner does not respond to love with anger and cruelty, he will receive a friend who is ready to literally give his life for him. In addition, dogs are unobtrusive, they perfectly understand the mood of the owner, and if he is not in the mood for communication, then they will simply lie quietly next to you, waiting for you to pay attention to them.

The cat is not only more closed, but also more self-centered. She is interested in a person because he gives her shelter and food. Yes, sometimes she is especially attached to certain family members, but the cat has no goal of serving you, she has her own interests. Therefore, you can pet your cat when she wants it, and where she allows it.

But when the cat decides that the time has come to communicate with you, nothing will stop it. Neither your sleep, nor your work - it will just come and stand between you and the monitor or lie on the book you are reading. And he will touch your cheek with his velvet paw. And then he buries his head under your chin. What kind of work is there!

Cats

Cats have their advantages and disadvantages. This applies to the size of the animal, maintenance and feeding.

About the benefits

Cats have been living next to humans for more than 10 thousand years and they still haven’t gotten tired of them. They have a special charisma that captivates people. Cats are affectionate animals, their soft, silky fur is pleasant to the touch. You always want to cuddle and hug these pets. For many, communication with a cat has a calming, peaceful effect. The house where she appears immediately becomes somehow more comfortable.

Cats are also famous for their healing abilities. Many owners will confirm that when a furry creature is placed on a sore spot, relief soon follows. Animals relieve nervous tension and relieve stress.

A cat is better than a dog because it is much cheaper to maintain. In addition, it is not necessary to have spacious housing - even in a tiny apartment he will feel comfortable. Cats do not need to be walked regularly; they can be left alone even for several days, just provided with food and drink.

Animals are easy to transport in transport if you want to take them somewhere with you, and it is not very problematic to place them temporarily with friends or relatives. The furry beauties are very interesting to watch. They know how to surprise, and you never know what to expect from them next. Another definite plus is the ability to catch mice and flies.

About the disadvantages

The main disadvantage of cats is their independence. Unlike dogs, they will not bring slippers to their owner or carry out various commands. All human attempts to force cats to “walk the line” and serve have long ago failed. Not everyone likes submissiveness. For some, a cat’s love of freedom is not a minus, but a plus.

There are fewer practical benefits from furry beauties than from dogs. Unless, of course, your home is infested with mice. You cannot leave a cat to guard the house, and it will never become the owner’s “bodyguard,” unlike a dog.

Who is better to have and in what case?

If you are responsible and constant, you have enough free time for daily walks, then the dog will become not just a pet, but a family member and friend. Of course, a dog requires a lot of time and attention than a cat, but the owner will receive many times more love and devotion from the animal.

For those who want to have a living creature, but are not ready or cannot devote a significant part of their free time to it, it is better to give preference to a cat. The representative of the feline family does not require much attention, but will delight with its purring.

There is no clear answer to this question of who to choose. Both pets have a lot of advantages. To make the right decision, you need to analyze the situation and understand your own preferences, based on your habits and lifestyle.

Life with a dog

The dog will become a full and beloved member of your family.

Definitely, dogs are animals for active and sociable people. The dog will never leave you alone - he will always demand your attention, but at the same time he will give a lot in return. This fact is often cited by dog lovers as an argument against cats: after all, a cat, at first glance, gives much less than it receives from its owner - unlike a social and loving dog.

The main and undeniable advantage of living with a dog is precisely this: you will not only not be lonely, but you will not feel lonely. A dog will always keep you company - share your fun and comfort you when you are sad. However, it is worth remembering that the more energetic the breed you choose, the more energy it will require from you. The dog needs constant physical activity.

A dog will keep an elderly person company and will not leave him alone

A conditional disadvantage, which may turn into a plus for some, is the need to walk the dog at least twice a day - in any weather, regardless of whether you have enough time for this. Walking a dog brings a lot of positive emotions, but if you are too busy or cannot walk it due to health conditions, you can use the services of a person who will walk your pet - this can be either your friend or a person who makes a living from this enjoyable activity. occupation.

Unlike cats, dogs don't wash themselves - so your four-legged friend will need to visit the bathroom from time to time. It is advisable to wash your paws after every walk. An objective drawback that loving owners, however, do not notice is a specific smell that is present even in a freshly washed dog. If you do not have a very sensitive sense of smell or simply love these animals madly, their smell will definitely not be a minus for you.

Dogs are the best friends of children of any age.

However, all the theoretical disadvantages of living with a dog will cease to matter if you want to get yourself a pet. Dogs, especially large breeds, are very intelligent (some of them even have a sense of humor), and of course all of them are loyal and loving. Earning their favor is much easier than winning the love of a cat, but this does not mean that dogs are promiscuous. They have subtle intuition and always feel which people truly love them. If a dog has become attached to you, believe me, it will be forever.

Upbringing

The dogs are highly trainable. Watch videos of dog agility or dancing competitions on the Internet - it’s simply incredible what kind of interaction and mutual understanding can be achieved with a dog without resorting to verbal explanations. And the point here is not only in pack hunting of dogs, which requires constant coordination of actions between members of the pack. Man domesticated the dog many millennia before the cat, and its experience of communicating with us is enormous.

The dog is open to you, receptive, really trying to understand what you want from it, and really wants to do what you ask. However, the whole problem is that dogs are not self-learning, they need to be taught, they need to be dealt with from an early age, and even if you are not going to shine at exhibitions or competitions.

An untrained dog is much more of a nuisance than any cat. Uncontrollable both in the house and on the street, guided only by its own instincts, far from the rules of human society, it is a big problem and even a threat to both its owners and those around them.

A cat, locked within four walls, and not even striving to communicate, will show aggression or inappropriate behavior only if you come into contact with it against its will. Of course, it will be difficult for you to wash the animal or carry out any medical manipulations with it, but in general you can coexist quite peacefully with each other, without attempting to raise a pet.

Comparing the intelligence of a dog and a cat: similarities and differences

To resolve the dispute between cat and dog lovers, many scientists carefully study the structure and physiological data of these animals. But even to this day, scientists do not have enough facts to give an accurate answer - who is smarter than a cat or a dog.

Many facts claim that dogs have more neurons in their brains that are responsible for transmitting and absorbing information than cats. And this suggests that dogs are more capable of perceiving information, thus being smarter than cats.
The number of neurons depends on the animal’s way of life; the more predatory the behavior, the higher the intelligence. This is justified by the fact that this way of life requires the ability to develop, because this is necessary to outwit the victim.
Scientists count the number of neurons in the cerebral cortex, because It is these neurons that are responsible for information processing, that is, the ability to draw conclusions based on past situations and life experiences. Dogs have approximately 600 million neurons, while cats have only 150.

Comparison of cats and dogs

All studies on the structure of the animal brain do not prove that dogs are 100% smarter than cats, both of them can solve simple riddles in order to get food. But the difference is that if the problem has reached a dead end, dogs will turn to the owner or another person, but cats will persistently continue trying to solve it. This indicates that dogs are capable of interacting with humans and understanding minimal social interaction skills.
Dogs, like people, have social intelligence, so it is easy to explain that dogs often gather in packs, unlike cats. Dogs are more communicative with each other and distribute responsibilities in the pack.
While a dog has the skills to communicate with humans, cats have sensory intelligence, which helps them catch food faster. Cats are more precise in their movements and much more sensitive than other animals, which is why cats were previously bred to catch mice, which is very difficult for a dog to do.

It is believed that dogs are more useful to mankind, and that is why many laboratories (about 10) are narrowly focused on studying the body structure and intelligence of dogs. But there are no similar laboratories for the study of cats, and therefore the brains of these animals are not fully studied.

Intelligence of cats and dogs

In addition to sensory intelligence, cats have a good memory, as for animals, which is why they are often called vindictive. But, if you do something nice for a cat, she will also remember it, though not for long, because... animals tend only to short-term memory (from 5 to 16 hours).

Each animal brings incredible benefits to humanity; of course, the intellectual abilities of both cats and dogs are an order of magnitude inferior to humans, while animals have other useful qualities. But in order to fully study the functioning of the animal brain, it is necessary to conduct even more laboratory research and everyday manipulations.

Who is better, a cat or a dog: pros and cons

If we consider the issue of the psychological state of the owners after adopting a pet, then it is completely indifferent who becomes the furry friend. The inevitable accompanying struggle with dirt (in one form or another) will almost always be present throughout the pet’s life, with cats a little smaller, with dogs a little more. The benefits of keeping a cat in an apartment include virtually unspoiled relationships with neighbors. In the case of a dog that still needs to be trained so that it does not howl when its owners are absent and does not yap when someone passes by the apartment, relations with neighbors can even lead to scandals. There are many examples of this; the result can be a move - you cannot give your pet to anyone (although there are many negative cases). You can leave your cat on vacation by entrusting its care to relatives or neighbors (this is an economical option, a more expensive option is in a special foster home). The dog is having a very hard time with the absence of its owner; its relatives cannot cope with it, let alone its neighbors. All that remains is an expensive nursery specializing in foster care. From the point of view of routine and rhythm of life, a dog binds its owners to itself much more tightly than a cat. A dog is a lifestyle, but a cat, in fact, does not change anything.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of cats?

The main advantages of fluffies

Most mustaches can heal their owners.

From an aesthetic point of view, people like murkas more. They are considered more beautiful. Soft, pleasant wool, a variety of colors, a mysterious look, and special charisma attract and pacify.
They help relieve stress, and for some they turn out to be even more useful - they relieve pain by lying down on the disturbing place.
Keeping a cat is cheaper than dogs, and care is easier.
A fluffy dog does not need large areas to live comfortably.
They are accustomed to loneliness. The cat is left alone for several days, and it does not require constant attention and walking.
The ability of some individuals to catch mice.
Transportation is not problematic. And if you can’t take it with you, then it’s easier to place a cat with friends than a dog.
Fluffies are cleaner than dogs. They groom themselves and rarely require bathing.
Representatives of cats are characterized by playfulness. Both children and adults like it.

Disadvantages of Murkas

If the pet is “out of sorts,” it can leave a scratch on the owner’s body.

While having fun or expressing dissatisfaction, a cat may scratch, which is important to remember for families with children.
The pet is “infected” with bad habits, which are difficult to wean from.
The mood and behavior will not always correspond to the owner.
The time will come when it is necessary to resolve the issue of the manifestation of the sexual instinct.
The need to “get used to” the pet’s character and indulge its whims are undoubted disadvantages of cats.

Animals and children

If you decide to get a pet at the request of your child, he will most likely be able to answer the question of who is better - a puppy or a kitten. But we want to remind you that it is very beneficial for a child’s health to be born into a family that already has pets. It is advisable that they be in the house already during pregnancy and, of course, grow up with the baby. In this situation, children are much less likely to suffer from allergies and even asthma, and in general their development occurs faster. This issue is covered in more detail in the article “The Benefits of Cats for Humans,” published on our website.

In principle, children will enjoy playing with any animal; it is only important to teach them not to hurt the animal. And it should be remembered that not all cats are ready to endlessly endure liberties from a child, and their claws are much sharper than a dog’s. However, most often cats will simply try to hide from the obsessive attention of a child and will use their weapons only as a last resort.

But a dog that has not undergone proper training can show active aggression, and if it is a large or even medium-sized dog, then it may not just be a matter of scratches. Adults are responsible for everything that happens in the family, so it is they who must take responsibility for choosing the breed of the pet, and most importantly, its training and upbringing.

If the dog obeys you and knows exactly the boundaries of what is permitted, then for your children it will become a friend, ready to share with them all the joys of childhood. As a rule, such friendship is remembered for a lifetime and becomes for a grown child a measure of honesty, devotion, love and selflessness in relations with the world.

Differences in behavior between dogs and cats

The first thing that comes to mind is the number of walks. Those who love active sports and walks should choose a dog, as some breeds need activity both in the evening and in the morning, which motivates the owner to go jogging. But if a person is not particularly active or too busy for walks and sports, then a cat will suit him better. Naturally, they also need activity and walks, but not as much as dogs.

Which dog is better to bring into a private home?

The second is the amount of sleep. Cats sleep longer than dogs; some breeds can sleep for up to 20 hours. Dogs sleep less and are more active during the day. This lifestyle is convenient if the owner often needs to be distracted by work and run away on errands, even for a short time. The cat will sleep and will hardly notice that the owner is away from home. But a waking dog will definitely begin to feel sad for the person.

Note! Dogs are better than cats for active owners, but cats are better for lazy and always tired owners.

Training

Because of its wayward and proud nature, a cat is more difficult to teach various tricks and, in principle, to raise. The owner will succeed, but only under several conditions. Firstly, the animal itself must like it. Secondly, you can develop those talents that a cat has according to its nature. It is also very important to encourage her with treats and demonstrate your love, otherwise the cat will become stubborn and refuse training altogether.

Dogs are easier to train, but not all dogs are. Sometimes more social cat breeds are easier to train than a hunting dog, whose temperament is even more stubborn than a cat's. But still, dogs are better than cats when it comes to training.

Problems of mutual existence with cats

A small kitten (it is best to adopt it at the age of one and a half to two months - then it will grow up and meet the owner’s requirements) is not accustomed to anything. He can eat, drink, jump, run, climb. The discharge of natural needs occurs almost spontaneously - where I wanted, it happened there. It will take two, or even three, months to potty train a kitten (tray with filler). No one will do this for the owners, although if you have enough money, you can take a purebred kitten that has already been trained in everything at 4-5 months of age. And if you're lucky, then an ordinary one - not a thoroughbred. But this will already be a creature with a pronounced character and not completely the master’s - he was raised by others, he will remember them all his life. What if the content requirements are different? Maybe he was climbing the curtains, but you don’t allow it. He grew up with a cat mother, she taught him to eat properly, but he cannot lick himself, and washing a kitten (to remove fleas) is already a problem.

Who is more affectionate and gentle?

Dogs love affection and can be cuddled, caressed, and played endlessly. The pet loves close, physical contact with the owner: it will either snuggle sideways, or lick it with its tongue, or even climb onto your lap and become quiet so as not to be driven away. The animal may not leave its owner 24 hours a day. And after separation he greets with wild joy, jumping, wagging his tail.

A beauty comes to a person only when she wants to. But her caresses are gentle and pleasant: she rubs and purrs. Or maybe lick it with your tongue - wash it or “comb it”. Cats also love to crush the owner’s blanket or clothes with their paws. By doing this, they show trust and love for the owner. But he won’t let himself be squeezed by Kisul – he doesn’t like encroachments on personal freedom. Murka also meets his returning friend on the doorstep, but she does not know how to show wild dog joy.

Choose a pet for love

So, we cannot tell you which animal is better - a cat or a dog. But we wish you to find exactly the creature that will steal your heart. People no longer have pets for practical purposes; they live with us in order to bring joy into our lives, give us their love and give us the opportunity to experience this love for them ourselves. So why do you need a “marriage of convenience” exactly where the whole point is in love?

Living in the same apartment with an animal of no matter how thoroughbred, the look of which does not make you feel anything and does not bring tenderness to your heart, is a dubious pleasure for both him and you. So the nascent feeling of love is the main factor that will allow you to make the right choice and subsequently not pay any attention to the inconveniences that inevitably arise when you take on the work and responsibility for the life of a being wholly dependent on you.

Test to determine

A test will help you find out who will definitely become a good friend:

How much time do you plan to devote to your pet?
B. 1-2 hours a day.
B. Less than 1 hour per day.
What to do if your pet is lost:
B. I will search in different ways.
B. I’ll wait until he returns on his own.
Train a pet:
B. If there is time.
V. No, this is a waste of energy.
Why get a pet:
B. Just out of boredom.
Q. This is a toy.
How strong is the love for animals?
B. I’m calm.
V. I don’t like it.

If “A” answers predominate, then a dog is a good choice.

If answers “B” predominate, then the best option is a cat.

A large number of “B” answers indicate that you should not have a cat or a dog.

They are killing machines

Before you judge a cat's sleeping habits, know that these long hours are less due to laziness and more due to evolutionary code. Cats are natural predators; Unlike other mammals that may have searched for food, cats had to hunt, which meant spending more time sleeping, saving energy for hunting.

For the same reason, most of this period of 12-16 hours is spent in light sleep. Before they became domesticated, felines had to sleep lightly in case prey - or a more dangerous predator - entered their territory.

Moreover, this centuries-old history of hunting has passed into modern times. According to a University of Georgia study, domestic cats are responsible for the death of 2.9 billion rodents and birds every year. That's all that needs to be said: your cat is a biological Terminator, and we would be drowning in rats if not for the cats' valiant efforts.

Forget tigers and lions - the deadliest predators live in your home

Smell

In this case, you should consider the smell of urine if suddenly your four-legged pet decides to mark the territory. Dogs' urine does not smell as strong as cats' urine. However, the former, due to their natural characteristics, can smell like dog. Not everyone will like this, especially when keeping an individual at home. Cats do not have a strong aroma.
Even after bathing, when keeping certain breeds, you will never get rid of the characteristic smell. Shampoos will only obscure it, but will not remove it forever. In terms of hygiene, dogs are more difficult to look after than cats. The latter lick themselves, they don’t like to be dirty.
Cats usually do not go outside, so there is no point in washing them constantly. As for our devoted four-legged friends, they are happy to go for a walk in any weather. If it’s damp outside, you’ll have to wash the paws and even the whole body.

Life with a cat

Cats live in almost every home not only in our country, but throughout the world. There are quite a lot of breeds and varieties, but this does not reduce the number of ordinary outbred individuals. Some people keep them in their country house or in a private house so that they catch mice. Others keep pets in the apartment, they serve them as a kind of decoration.

It is known that cats are accustomed to living on their own; they have a wayward character. Therefore, it is better not to disturb or squeeze them again, as the animal may not like it and the cat may well bite or scratch. But this does not mean that the pet does not need affection and care. When a cat wants to cuddle, they show it to their owner with all their appearance.

Living in the same area with a cat is suitable for closed and unsociable people, families with small children and the elderly. Since cats prefer to spend a lot of time alone, doing their own thing, such as carefully licking their fur, or they can sleep sweetly in any place where they like.

Nowadays, more and more often, older people have 1-2-3, or even 10 cats in their apartment at the same time, psychologists explain this by the fact that in old age a person becomes the same in intellectual development as a small child, and children simply adore cats . Children pay special attention to small kittens, as they are quite funny and prefer to play with their little owners; an adult cat is unlikely to play. This will also need to be taken into account, otherwise the child will lose interest in the pet and then he will start asking for either another kitten or a dog.

We also recommend reading:

Pet: why does the dog refuse to go for walks When and why do kittens change eye color? Why a cat won't accept kittens, and how to deal with it Unusual facts about the cat's nose

Another plus is that cats are cleaner than dogs. They can spend hours licking their coat. It is recommended to wash them quite rarely, at least several times a year. And all because cats do not like water and generally have a specific attitude towards it; for them, washing in the bathroom turns into a living hell. In order to periodically keep your pet clean, you can buy a special spray in a specialized store that does not require rinsing and acts as a shampoo.

There is no special care for cats, you just need to change the tray in a timely manner and add fresh water, and feed the animal. By the way, the cat’s body is designed in such a way that it does not accept certain foods from the human table well, this can lead to diarrhea or even poisoning. From time to time, cats are recommended to buy malt paste; it helps remove hair from the pet’s stomach and prevents it from clogging the intestines. Although they say that cats are rather lazy animals, to some extent this is true. However, you should ensure that your pet leads an active lifestyle, otherwise it can lead to obesity and various other diseases.

A cat is a hunter by nature, so you shouldn’t deprive it of this skill. She hunts movable and immovable objects, such as butterflies, flies or toys.