The Shocking Differences Between Cats and Dogs: Which Pet is Right for You?

Cats and dogs are the two most popular pets in the world. This is why the debate about whether cats or dogs are better continues to this day.

Although we love both felines and canines equally, the two pets do have some differences that you might be interested in learning about, especially if you are considering getting a dog or a cat.

We have prepared the ultimate post that covers the shocking differences between the two. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started.

1. Dogs Were Domesticated Much Earlier

Even though there is much debate about the timeline, it is estimated that they were domesticated around 40,000 years ago. On the other hand, cats are said to have been domesticated only 12,000 years ago. The history of cats shows that cats were domesticated for pest control when agriculture evolved.

2. Cats are Better at Self Grooming

If you have a cat, you must know that it spends a lot of time licking its fur and paws. Dogs, on the other hand, couldn’t care less. They can go with matter hair for days without the urge to clean themselves. If you have a dog; you will need a dog shampoo, a slicker brush for dogs, flea sprays, and many other accessories to keep your dog clean. Whereas cat owners can only do with giving their cats a bath once a while.

3. Cats Depend More on Scent for Communication

Dogs are highly intelligent. Being a social species means that they rely on facial cues and body language to communicate in comparison to cats that rely more on scent for communication. The reason behind this is that cats tend to be more solitary.

Cats have scent glands on their paws and cheeks. This means they can know where they have been rubbing or scratching through scent.

4. Cats Are Better Hunters

If you think that dogs are better at hunting, you could not be more wrong. The truth is that cats have retained their hunting behavior far better than dogs from an evolutionary perspective.

Cats need to express their natural hunting behavior as it releases happy hormones. Thus, they need to stalk and pounce on toys to feel good. Cat owners should know how to play with cats to keep them happy.

5. Dogs Do Not Have To Eat Meat

Another shocking difference between dogs and cats is that dogs do not need to eat meat as omnivores. However, cats are carnivores, and they prefer consuming meat to get all the nutrients they require to stay healthy.

Bonus Difference: Cats Are Less Social

Unlike dogs, who are a social species, cats do not require as much socialization. Dogs have evolved as a social species, which is why they require some form of companionship. However, cats have evolved as a solitary species. Hence, they do not require other cats around them. In fact, cats can get stressed when living with one another unless they have formed a strong social bond.

Takeaway

Both dogs and cats make for amazing pets. Knowing the differences between the two will allow you to decide whether to get a canine or feline for your home. Make sure to ask your family members when making the decision.

Author Bio: 
Dur-e-Sabih provides ghostwriting and copywriting services. Her educational background in  Accountancy helps her in tackling topics ranging from career and business productivity to web development, finance, and digital marketing.