Forbes states that dogs are the most common pet in the United States, with 65.1 million homes owning a dog, followed by cats (46.5 million households). Given that dogs and cats are a popular choice of pet not just in the US but also globally, it should come as no surprise that many people tend to compare the two species.
Of course, we love kitties and doggos equally, but there are some important distinctions that mean that they need to be cared for in different ways. So, while they share a similar level of silliness and quirks, let’s look at some of their differences.
The first domesticated animals were dogs, who served the hunting gatherers well as guards and hunters. Many believe that dogs provided important lessons for the later domestication of other species.
On the other hand, domestic cats emerged approximately 10,000 years ago, following the construction of homes, farms, and communities by humans. They were effective for pest control.
Dogs are considered to be more social than cats. This is because they descended from wolves, which are pack animals. As dogs' ancestors were naturally inclined to live and hunt in groups, they inherited this social trait from them.
Most canines bond and cooperate with each other. However, cats have evolved from a solitary species, and they don’t necessarily enjoy the company of other feline creatures.
Since dogs are socially active animals who depend on facial expressions and body language to communicate with one another, just like their human friends, they might be able to sense if their buddy is sad or upset.
As cats mostly enjoy their own company, they have to rely on scent for communication. They find it easy to communicate with other animals, thanks to the scent glands on their cheeks and paws. For instance, they let other furry friends know their whereabouts by rubbing or scratching surfaces and leaving their scent.
When it comes to taking medicines, the metabolic processes of dogs are similar to humans. This means they are able to break down and process some medications effectively like us.
However, cats are highly sensitive to many common drugs. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) are extremely toxic to cats. In any case, it’s important that people consult a vet to ensure the safety and well-being of their pets
On hot days, dogs typically pant to stay cool. They do so because they don’t have sweat glands, and panting helps the water in their nostrils and lungs to evaporate faster. Also, you might have noticed dogs pant when they are really eager, stressed out, or nervous.
Conversely, cats do not pant. The main reason for this is because they don't tend to work themselves to the point where they become very heated. However, if you notice your cat panting, it may be an indication of some underlying medical condition.
