Many of us have pets at home that we come home to each day after a long 7-hour, sometimes more, school day. These companions can be a great source of distraction from our daily lives, and according to News In Health’s website it, “decreases levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lowers blood pressure.” Animals can also, “reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost your mood.” Between the two most popular pets- dogs and cats- there is still one core debate at hand: Which one is better? Although they both provide companionship, depending on the type of person you are, you might prefer one over the other.
Cats are known for their self-reliance and independent state of mind. One can argue that this level of independence makes them superior and more intelligent than dogs. Cats clean, play, set boundaries, and make their own schedule. In addition to being independent, cats are also entirely simplistic. If you live in a small apartment with not a lot of outside space, cats might be ideal for you. Additionally, cats tend to be less expensive than dogs in regards to the cost of food, toys, training classes, daycare, and vet bills. If you are looking for a low-key and simple animal, then a cat is the way to go.
According to hillspet.com, sixty-nine million people in the United States own dogs in their household. If you aren't a dog owner yourself, consider the perks. Dogs are indeed “man’s best friend.” They are always close to you, which shows how protective they are of their owners and will faithfully care and protect you as best as they can. Dogs are also more selfless and eager to please others than cats, which often makes them easier to train or adapt to daily routines. If you desire a more codependent relationship, then a dog could be a good addition to your household.
Cats and dogs may be seen as complete opposites, but the truth is they both support us in different ways. They will always be at home waiting for us after a long, stressful day, something most owners find comfort in. Whether you're more of an extrovert, dog person or an introvert, cat person, we can all agree our pets help us so much in our lives.
- Jacob Francy