By Jen Flatt Osborn

The time has come to get a new best friend. The question is, should you get a cat or a dog? It’s an age-old debate and one that deserves investigating.

Besides the obvious physical differences between the two animals, you need answers about their temperaments, their care, and basically, what makes them tick. It’s easy to love both but each has unique characteristics.   

Should I Get A Cat Or A Dog?

It all begins with what kind of person you are. Ask yourself these questions:

> Do I want a constant companion?
> Do I need my space even though I have plenty of love to give?
> Is affection at the top of my list of must-haves?
> Do I want an animal that goes places with me?
> Would I rather chew on glass than bathe an animal?
> Do I only have time and energy for one pet and would never get more?

That’s good for starters. Now let’s break down each and see if your future will be filled with catnip or dog treats.

A doggy companion

Do You Want A Constant Companion?

If dogs were human, they’d be Chatty Cathys. If cats were, they’d probably be less personable. Canines need daily companionship. They want to greet you at the door, have their noses in whatever you’re doing, and are usually up for a good belly rub.

On the other hand, domesticated cats are loners (although they can flourish within colonies). When they want interaction, they’ll let you know. Other interests like lounging in the sun make them happy and if you’re not involved, it’s perfectly okay.

Dig deep to know if you want a pet that puts you at the center of their world or one who appreciates their independence.

Do You Need Your Space?

Cats understand this concept. Unless the smell of fresh tuna is in the air, often they’d rather be sleeping, playing, or just staring out the window at Tweety. You can do your thing while they do theirs and all is well.

With dogs, personal space could be the six inches between your faces as you sleep. To be by your side as much as possible is often their happy place. They may not be the best choice if your idea of bliss is being completely alone for long periods of time.

An affectionate cat

Looking For An Affectionate Pet?

Here’s where cats are sometimes misunderstood. Contrary to their reputation of being aloof and needing no one, they love affection like dogs do. They may not leap into your arms like a dog might, but they’ll let you know it’s time for some lovin’ by purring or rubbing up against you.

If there were superlatives in life, dogs would be honored with “Most affectionate.” Their eyes, tails, and bodies all get into the act when they’re letting you know they’re ready for some attention.

And don’t get me started on licking – Dogs have their licker-license and most will share their slobber every chance they get to let you know how much they love you.

Prefer A Pet That Needs Minimal Bathing?

If you have physical limitations or would rather not regularly bathe a pet, a cat’s your best choice for a pet. They’re wired to clean themselves and their tongues have a rough texture suited for it.

That said, they do need baths every couple of months to remove debris, parasites, and to get any mattes out. Especially if they’re long-haired or are often outdoors.

There are differing opinions on this ranging from every two weeks to once a year but to be safe, every eight weeks should do the trick.

Dogs are more inclined to get dirty since digging is a favorite pastime and they have no natural ability to clean themselves. Monthly bathing will keep them up to snuff whether you do it yourself or take them to a groomer.

If you go it alone, look online for reputable articles on the best way to wash a dog. You don’t want to dry their skin out or irritate it so being prepared and using the right tools is important.

A traveling dog

Want A Pet That Likes To Travel?

You’ll need to walk right on past the feline section and choose a dog instead. Cats generally would rather be in a rocking chair factory than ride in a car. They’re extra-sensitive to noise and environmental change and travel gives them both.

In contrast, have you ever seen a sad dog hanging his head out of a car window? Neither have we. Of course there are dogs that don’t enjoy a car ride, but many do and will even get excited when you pick up the keys.

(Just remember to never leave an animal in a car when the temperature is over 65 degrees.)

Are You A One Pet Kind Of Person?

If you know you want one best buddy and never any more than that, a cat would be the best option for you. Even in the wild, cats spend a lot of time on their own. Since domesticated cats are descendants of lions and tigers, they also enjoy being, um, top dog.

They can certainly get accustomed to another feline but it’s usually a painstaking process.

In comparison, a dog often needs companionship. It’s like having kids…If you have one, they’re solely focused on you all the time. But when there’s more than one, they have a friend and someone to play with.

Dogs come from wolves and are pack animals who love to have company of the canine variety. Just make sure you introduce them properly or find someone who can.  

How Caring For Dogs And Cats Is Similar

1. Both need consistent care from a veterinarian.

2. Each requires a lifelong commitment.

3. Both need to be groomed.

4. Each needs a diet with proper nutrition.

5. And finally, they both deserve all the TLC they can possibly get.

Now you know the pros and cons to make the all-important decision of getting a dog or a cat. Also remember, there’s more training involved with a dog and more patience involved with getting a cat to do what you want.

And if you still can’t make up your mind, you could always get a dog AND a cat. 

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