Are you wondering whether your future pet will be a Fido or a Fluffy? Adopting the perfect animal can be a wonderful journey, starting with discovering if you’re a dog person or a cat person. Both can make fantastic family members. Read on to learn more.
Where you live
The first thing to consider is the type of home you live in. Cats are quite content living in an apartment provided that they have a private place to sleep, a clean litter box, sufficient stimulation, and a window where they can see the goings on outside. You’ll be amazed at how long felines can spend fixated on bird and squirrel antics.
Dogs can be happy enough in an apartment; however, they need a certain amount of outdoor time. Not only do they require bathroom time outside, but also fresh air and exercise. A walk twice a day will help them stay fit, burn off excess energy, and socialize in the neighborhood.
In a house with a yard, it can be much easier to meet a canine’s needs. The opportunity for playtime and chasing a ball or learning new tricks can enable them to stay active.
Be mindful that if you rent your dwelling, the landlord may be allowed to place restrictions on the type of pet you can have. Similarly, a condominium board will have rules. Even if you own your house, it’s wise to check out the local pet bylaws.
Your lifestyle
How you live your life is another factor to consider in the type of pet you select. Basically, dogs require more time and attention than cats. Felines are considerably more independent. Sure, they enjoy the chance to play and cuddle with you, but they also like their alone time.
Another reason that cats are lower maintenance than dogs is that they sleep up to 15 hours a day versus the 12 hours that dogs need. You can leave your cat for the day, secure in the knowledge that if they’re not napping, they’ll find a way to occupy themselves in your absence.
However, if you’re looking for a companion to take hiking or to ride shotgun on a car trip, then a dog is the pet for you. You’ll discover they’re up for any kind of fun and will be fully engaged no matter what the activity. Both felines and canines can make great snuggle buddies at the end of a long day, too.
Training time
Think about how much time and effort you wish to put into training. The average puppy requires quite a lot of time invested. Expect to take them outside frequently until they learn that they need to go outdoors to relieve themselves. While they’re teething, you must make sure they have proper teething toys and bones and that they don’t tear up your personal property or the legs of your dining table.
Good behavior must be reinforced with constant reminders and rewards. While a mature dog may come trained to some extent, they may also have acquired some bad habits, and you’ll need to teach them more appropriate behavior.
Of course, cats need proper training, as well, and that will take some focused effort. This is especially true with kittens who can keep you constantly on your feet correcting them in between their many naps.
Having said that, in general, get ready to spend more time teaching a canine. Remember, one reason for this is that your dog will be exposed to more environments, while your cat is a homebody. This translates into more scenarios where Butch or Bessie needs to be well behaved.
Your disposable income
An often overlooked consideration is how much money you have available to spend on your new pet. If you think cats are less expensive in contrast to dogs, in general, you’re correct. Aside from healthy food, veterinary care, and some pet toys, there are many ways to spend your cash.
Cats and dogs alike require regular grooming. A good quality pet brush and a pair of animal nail clippers are important investments. Beyond that, it really comes down to the particular breed of animal you adopt and whether they need to visit a groomer.
So, what is the difference in cost between cats and dogs? Felines can be left alone for several days if their needs are met with enough food and water. If you’re away longer, the cost to have someone check on them is minimal. Unless your dog is going on vacation with you, the expense of a boarding kennel is a big consideration. Plus, there are other potential costs like dog walkers, doggie day care, agility training, and more.
In closing
When deciding if you’re a dog or cat person, it really comes down to your lifestyle, the type of home you have, and a few other matters.