There are several differences between cats and dogs. Either will make life more enjoyable or difficult. The key to choosing which one is right for a person, is knowing the personality and traits of each species. There are many different factors to consider when making a decision. A person's life style, housing and time available to devote to an animal, is a major factor.


Let us examine cats first. There are some very strong points for owning a cat. Cats normally weigh from 5 to 25 pounds. Cats are very independent, and do not require regular feeding or bathroom schedules. When feeding a cat, all feeding requirements can be preformed in the morning. When the owner awakes, fill the cat's bowl with dry food and water. It will be set for the day. A litter box is sufficient for their bathroom. There is no more attention required for feeding; the cat will eat when it is ready. Cats do not require obedience school, and are not likely to bite neighbors. A cat will never beg for a walk, and can live their entire lives indoors. If a pet owner chooses to let their cat outside, most of the time cats will come back if no external factors intervene. Cats are easily trained to use the litter box. Cats do not require regular baths. Some cat collars have cute bells, letting the owner know where the cat is at all times.

There are some bad points to cat ownership. The litter box must be changed on a regular basis, if not the house will most certainly stink. Cats will also spray, claw, and shed on furniture. Cats can not be confined in a yard; if the yard is fenced, the cat will jump or climb over. Cats come into heat more often than dogs. If the owner does not get the cat spayed or neutered, it will have a multitude of kittens; due to the fact containment is difficult. Also, confinement difficulty leads to cats being hit by cars more often than dogs. Also, male cats often fight each other. If the owner dies, the cat will not try to get help; the owner will be eaten.