Other Pets To Consider: Reptiles
Do your research before getting a lizard, turtle, or snake. Reptiles are not low-maintenance pets. Many can live 15 years or longer, and snakes and lizards can grow to be quite large. Reptiles also need special habitats, and this can be expensive. Carnivorous types need live food, like worms, crickets, or mice.
Cats Keep Pests At Bay
Cats are natural-born hunters, so it’s in their DNA to stalk, hunt, and pounce on their preyeven if it’s on a television screen. While you should never, ever let your cat eat a bug or mouse it catches, a pest-free home is just one of the many benefits of owning kitties. What’s more, your cat’s scent alone can keep rodents away from your house; if rodents detect a hunter in the home, they’re far less likely to enter.
Pet Training: Cat Vs Dog
When it comes to cat vs. dog training, dogs are generally the easier of the two to train. A dog’s pack mentality makes him ready to follow a leader and makes him generally more obedient by nature. Typically, dog training is a process of teaching and reinforcing commands that help you communicate your desires to your dog. Dogs are so eager to please that they’re happy to meet those desires. However every dog is different, and some breeds have temperaments and learning aptitudes that take more readily to training than others.
Cats can be trained, but not as thoroughly as dogs. It requires a lot of patience and consistent practice to get past their willful nature. With cats, it’s best to focus training on establishing boundaries.
When it comes to house training, cats have the advantage over dogs. Cats use the litter box instinctively. It may only take showing them where the box is one time. If a cat is slow to catch on to using the litter box or appears to forget later on, this is often a sign of an underlying health issue, and you should consult your veterinarian.
Dogs, on the other hand, can be a lot tougher to potty train, especially puppies. Teaching them where it is and isn’t acceptable to go usually takes a lot of repetition and positive reinforcement.
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Kitty Downside: Can Be Standoffish
Some cats love to socialize, but others prefer to stay hidden, especially when new people visit. In fact, your friends may not even realize you have a cat! Cats who werent around people enough as kittens may be skittish. Even the friendliest cat will jump off your lap and sashay off when they have had enough of your attention.
Are Tree Frogs Poisonous To Dogs
The same issues that can plague cats can also lead to problems with dogs. While its less likely that a dog will lick or play with a tree frog, they still might eat them. If you suspect that this has happened to your dog, you need to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
Another potential problem is if the tree frog feels threatened by the dog, it might send toxins their way. If this happens, it isnt deadly for your dog, but it will cause them to vomit or have diarrhea for anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.
These symptoms usually resolve on their own, and if this happens, theres nothing that you need to do besides keeping your dog and the tree frog apart in future interactions.
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Am I A Dog Person Or A Cat Person
The easiest way to determine whether you are a cat or a dog person is to consider which animal you prefer the most. If you dont particularly prefer one to the other, you might not be either a cat person or a dog person. It is possible not to belong to either group.
If youre either a cat or a dog person, youll probably know. This usually isnt something you have to figure out one way or another. You typically know whether or not you are a cat person or a dog person.
The pet you like more typically reflects your personality. You tend to like pets that act like you door reflect your personality and outlook. It is sometimes characterized that dog people prefer to have more submissive petswhich cats arent in the leastso they are more likely to have dominance-related personality traits.
There is even a theory that Republicans are more likely to own dogs, while Democrats are more likely to own cats. It seems that worldview does play a role.
However, if you dont like one animal over another, that doesnt mean something is wrong with your personality or worldview. Some people just dont fit nicely into one category or the other!
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Are Dogs Really Better Than Cats
The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd
Comparing dogs and cats is like comparing apples to oranges. Each species has its pros and cons, and both are special in their own ways. This age-old battle of dog people versus cat people doesn’t really need to continue.
Can’t we all just get along? Cats and dogs can learn to live happily together. Why choose? Just get both!
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Are You A Cat Person Or A Dog Person
It is a common idea that everyone is a dog person or a cat person. Youre either drawn to dogs or drawn to catsthere is no in-between.
However, there isnt exactly any scientific evidence about whether people do prefer cats or dogs as a personality trait. However, some people do prefer cats to dogsthere is no doubt about that.
In this article, well dig into the idea of preferring cats vs. dogs. Well also look at how to tell whether you are a cat person or a dog person.
From Their Ease Of Care To Their Quiet Nature
The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong
When deciding to get a pet, it may be a difficult decision about whether to choose a cat or a dog. Although they are both furry friends, the two types of animals are very different from each other. Cats have many favorable traits, including their ease of care, cleanliness, and adorable antics, making them a wonderful pet for any family.
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Cats Are Perfectly Content Indoors
The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong
It’s virtually impossible for dogs to have an indoors-only lifestyle; they need a lot of exercise, plenty of walks, and time spent outdoors to live happy and healthy lives. But if you don’t have a yard or access to parks, or have limited mobility, this may present a major challenge.
Not only are cats much safer indoors, but they’re perfectly happy perched next to a window or curled up in a sunny spot on the couch. Simply crack a window for some fresh air , and your cat will be totally content watching birds and bugs all day long.
Dogs Come In More Shapes And Sizes
There are different breeds of cats, but many of them don’t vary a whole lot in shape and size. Sure, you have your giant Maine Coon and your uniquely-coated Devon Rex, but most house cats are mixed breeds, sometimes called “moggies.” They come in many beautiful coats and colors, but the differences between cats are subtle compared to the differences between dogs.
It’s hard to believe that a tiny little Yorkie is the same species as the huge Great Dane. If you decide to get a dog, you’ll have plenty of choices available. Do you want a giant dog, a small dog breed or something in between? Would you like a herding dog with endless energy or a cuddly lapdog? Perhaps a well-balanced mixed breed is your preference. Mutts are not to be overlooked! There are even some low-allergen dogs for the mildly allergic. There’s a type of dog for just about any household.
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The Scientific Evidence For Cat People Vs Dog People
Surprisingly, there are quite a few studies that have been done on the personalities of cat people and dog people. One study was performed in 2010 by the University of Texas. This study found that those that identified as dog people were more social, while cat people were more openmeaning creative and nontraditional.
Another study was done in 2014 by Carroll University. They found similar results to the previous study. Dog lovers were more likely to be energetic and outgoing. Cat people were open-minded and sensitive. Cat people tended to perform higher on IQ tests than dog lovers. Cat people were also non-conformists, which fits nicely with the nontraditional aspect mentioned in the previous study.
A similar study was shown that cat people were more likely to have a higher blood pressure than dog people.
As these studies have shown, there does seem to be a difference between cat people and dog people. There seem to be a few personality differences and health differences between these two groups of people. There is likely something behind the correlation, therefore.
However, that doesnt mean that being a dog person or a cat person actually causes these differences. People that are more energetic and outgoing are more likely to prefer dogs. Its less likely that dogs cause someone to become more energetic.
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Cleaning The Litter Box Is Easier Than Constant Walks
While it may be a little weird that your cat pees and poops in strategically placed boxes all over your house, cleaning out a litter box is far easier than having to take walks late at night, during scorching summer days, or through freezing snow, all while scooping up dog poop with a plastic bag over your hand.
Cats are naturally very clean creatures, and one of their instincts is to bury their pee and poop. This hides their territory from predators who, like cats, use their sense of smell to find their prey. Although house cats aren’t necessarily being hunted by predators, humans can reap the benefits of neat, clean, and completely covered waste.
There’s A Chance That Your Cat And Dog Won’t Be Friends But You Can Help Them Co
Your dog and cat may never be best buds, but with careful training and a lot of patience, you can encourage your pets to develop a peaceful relationship with one other.
“Reward your pets with yummy treats and lots of love when they are interacting nicely and spend time with each of them individually,” she told Insider.
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Each Animal Will Need Their Own Designated Bathroom Area
The ASPCA advises that you designate a quiet space for your cat’s litter box that’s away from a lot of foot traffic.
You may also want to keep it out of common play areas where your dog may be tempted to sniff it or mess with it, as that may cause your cat to feel like their space has been violated.
As for dogs, you’ll have to start house training them immediately. This process is different than litter-box training a cat and may require a lot more patience on your part.
Downsides And Upsides To Cats
Cats dont make good burglar alarms and are not likely to scare off intruders. And few cats will take to a leash unless training is begun at an early age. Cats are not pack animals, so they dont have an innate need to please you. If a cat learns a trick, its because she wants to.
Cats require some grooming, such as nail trims, as well as periodic brushing. Although she doesnt have to go outside to go to the bathroom, her litter box needs to be scooped every day, and the litter needs to be changed weekly or, at least, once every two weeks.
And the cats famous independence is also a consideration. Because she doesnt feel the need to please, a cat will approach you for affection when she wants to be petted and stroked. Can your ego stand catering to your pets whims?
But because a cat is more independent, they can be left alone for longer periods of time. Although a cat will miss you, she doesnt depend on you to be home right at 5 p.m. for a walk. If you are gone for longer periods, your cat will do well with a house sitter, but she can also get by with someone feeding and checking up on her twice a day.
When you do get home, you can lie on the couch and vegetate; shell probably be happy to curl up with you for a nap. Cats do need play time, but the effort is less taxing on you because shell do the running and jumping.
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Are Tree Frogs Poisonous To Humans
While tree frogs arent poisonous to humans, they do secrete toxins on their skin that can irritate human skin. The level of irritation ranges from mild to severe, depending on the specific species of tree frog.
However, since tree frogs secrete toxins, its essential that you thoroughly wash your hands both before and after handling a tree frog. Most tree frogs, especially pet ones, are not fatal to humans. Still, theyre not secretions that you want near any openings on your body, as they can get extremely painful.
But keep in mind that some tree frogs in South America and other parts of the world have toxic secretions that are so powerful, they can indeed kill you. If youre thinking of handling an exotic tree frog and dont know what species they are, its best to leave them alone.
Dogs Are Pack Animals
In the wild, dogs form packs in which each member cooperates to find food and provide protection, says Veterinarians.com. The pack usually has an “alpha dog” that the other dogs look to for leadership. Domestic pups are hardwired with this pack instinct that generally makes them social, friendly, and all too happy to belong to a family or even a single person who can provide him with food and leadership. Dogs instinctively go wherever their pack goes, which makes them more readily accepting of experiences, such as travel or moving. This pack mentality also makes it really hard on dogs to be left alone, especially for long periods of time. Dogs crave closeness and attention. Having a dog may be comparable to having a young child.
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Which Of These Best Describes The Way You Progress From Being A Stranger To Friends With Someone
We’re A Nation Of Pet Lovers And Rightly So Cats And Dogs Offer Unconditional Love Affection And Friendship As Well As A Host Of Therapeutic Benefits Such As Improved General Health And Wellbeing
Choosing between getting a cat or dog can be a tough decision, but generally speaking, dogs require more attention while cats are more independent. But if you like to have a cuddle with your furry friend – and not just when it suits your cat, then perhaps a dog is the right choice for you.Pet owners have lower levels of cholesterol, lower blood pressure and are less likely to suffer from stress, depression and anxiety. A study by the US Department of Health has even shown that owning a pet significantly improves the chances of surviving a heart attack, while a UK study found that people who own a pet deal with stress and loss better than those that don’t. So owning a pet is good for more than just cuddles!
The most popular mammalian pets in the UK are cats and dogs, and we’re evenly split when it comes to favourites: an estimated 20% of UK households own cats and 21% own dogs.
Cats and dogs have different needs and characteristics, so this decision is influenced as much by the type of lifestyle you have as it is your personal favourite. It’s less about ‘dog vs cat’ and more about which animal would best suit your lifestyle, taking into account your activity levels, the space you have at home, whether you have children or not, and how much time you can give to a pet.
Cats and dogs have different needs and characteristics, so this decision is influenced as much by the type of lifestyle you have as it is a personal favourite.
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It’s Been A Long Work Week: Which Of These Scenarios Describes The Perfect Weekend Evening To Unwind
Please Be Patient Your Results Are Being Generated
Its raining cats and dogs all over the Internet! Though cat owners and dog owners all have personalities as different as their pets, there is no doubt that fur parents love their companions more than anything! Can we tell whether you prefer cats or dogs? Believe it or not, there are simple differShow More
Its raining cats and dogs all over the Internet! Though cat owners and dog owners all have personalities as different as their pets, there is no doubt that fur parents love their companions more than anything! Can we tell whether you prefer cats or dogs? Believe it or not, there are simple differences in personalities of pet owners. Tell us your favorite TV shows, favorite relaxing activities, favorite travel plans, and even favorite Instagram hashtags to find out whether youre more likely to be a felines friend or a canines companion. Are you more likely to spend time at home or out with friends at the end of a long week? Would you rather live in the city or the country? Are you single or in a relationship? Even if you dont currently own a pet, you are always more likely to be drawn to one over the other. Answer these 12 questions to see if we can guess whether youre a cat person or a dog person!
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Dogs Adapt Better To Change
Cats are usually sensitive to their environments and dislike change. Many dogs tend to accept change more easily, especially when their owners act like it’s no big deal. Of course, there are plenty of anxious and fearful dogs out there, but as a species, they’re often calmer in the face of significant alterations to their lifestyles.
When it comes to introducing new people, pets, or items to your home or moving to a new house, cats generally need more time to adapt. They don’t automatically trust that all is well. They want proof first. Most dogs take their cues from their owners. If you’re cool and calm when that new baby comes in your door, chances are that your dog will be, too. Of course, some might not be quite as accepting of strangers.
Both Dogs And Cats Need Their Own Space To De
“, most cats and dogs enjoy a mix of socializing and time spent alone… be sure to give each animal a private space to rest and enjoy quiet time,” DiCicco told Insider.
“A handy trick is to use baby gates to give each pet an area of complete separation, allowing the new pet privacy and space to settle in,” she added.
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Is A Cat Or Dog Better For Me Quiz
If you still can’t decide which animal to choose, then you should definitely start this quiz. Thanks to your answers we will be able to effectively answer which animal you should choose, a dog or a cat. This quiz contains 10 questions. When you answer all the questions, on the last page of the quiz you will find the answer to the question that bothers you. Good luck!
Cat Or Dog Person Quiz
Its obvious that canines and felines are different in many ways: Owning a dog is by nature a social experience, thanks to the need to walk them. On the other hand, the cat person enters into a longer contract, since cats generally live longer than dogs . Is the cat owner someone you can trust for the long-haul commitment and quiet evenings at home?
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Other Pets To Consider: Rabbits
Rabbits can make great house pets. Besides being soft and adorable, they are quite social and affectionate and can use a litter box. However, they generally don’t like to be picked up, which means they may not be ideal for young children. Rabbits also love to chew, and if they’re allowed to roam freely in your house they may damage furniture or electrical cords.
Dogs Promote An Active Lifestyle
The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd
Cats tend to stay home and do their own thing, or they go out and do their own thing. Some people have been known to walk their cats through the neighborhood on harnesses, but that’s not the norm.
Just like humans, dogs need plenty of exercise. The great thing is that we can make them part of our own exercise routines. Most dogs love to go on walks. Many enjoy running with their humans. Some can even be trained to run alongside a bike.
Many dogs make wonderful hiking companions. Also, dogs can participate in dog sports like agility, flyball, disc, and diving. Dog sports are great for fulfilling a dog’s need for mental and physical exercise.
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Matching Cats And Dogs
- If youre thinking of getting a cat for your dog or a dog for your cat, its important to consider both animals personalities. It may be helpful to look for a companion that has already been exposed to the other species in the past.
- If a dog attempts to aggressively chase, pin, pick up or otherwise manhandle any cat, it is best to not even consider getting a cat or at least to proceed with caution. Additionally, a dog who growls, lunges at or obsessively barks at a cat would probably do best in a cat-free environment. Likewise, a cat who growls, swats at, runs from or hides from dogs would probably prefer to not live with a dog.
- If a dog loves chasing things, then a fearful, shy cat who runs away probably wouldnt be the best choice, as it could trigger the dog to chase. Similarly, an energetic cat who runs and pounces would fall into this same category. A better match here would be a calm, confident cat who will not run .
- If a dog plays roughly, it is best to avoid kittens or elderly cats who can easily be hurt. Instead, stick to playful adults who are interested in play, but are also confident enough to take care of themselves. If a cat is rambunctious or playful, a dog that is playful, but gentle, could be a great option.
- If a dog or cat is elderly, laid back, quiet or anxious, then a calm counterpart would be best. Avoid rambunctious companions who may annoy, frighten or otherwise bother the other pet.