If you’re thinking about getting a pet, whether as a companion for yourself or as an extra member of your family, you may be undecided whether you’re better off getting a cat or a dog.
For some, this choice may come down simply to which they prefer – we all know that some of us are ‘cat people’ and others are ‘dog people’. Regardless of the relative advantages and disadvantages of keeping one or the other, these types are likely to build their lives around their favourite kind of pet and will aim to always have one in their lives.
If you’re not already fully committed, however, it can be a difficult decision, and there are many things you need to consider before taking what will undoubtedly be a big step. This month, we’re looking at the things you should be taking into account when working out which is right for you.
Why should I get a cat?
Cats are undoubtedly far more independent than dogs and, while some people think that also makes them less affectionate than dogs, this really isn’t the case. Cats can be just as loving, but only on their terms and only when they feel like it – if your cat isn’t in the mood for a cuddle, you’re not going to persuade them otherwise!
That independence has some very specific advantages, however. For starters, you can leave your cat on its own all day while you all go to work and school and it won’t get lonely or bored – in fact, it will probably just sleep. You can even go away for a night or two and not worry in the slightest about how your cat will get on without you, as long as you make sure there will be enough food and water (and litter, if it’s an indoor cat). Unlike a dog, you can leave a couple of days’ worth of food out and it won’t eat it all in one go – it will just eat what it wants when it’s ready.
Neither do you need to find the time to take them for walks in all weathers; if your cat is happy to go outside and you have a cat flap, then it will take itself for a walk whenever it is ready. Around the house, apart from the occasional mad moment, your cat is likely to be a calming presence that makes for a relaxing and homely companion.
There are downsides to this independence, however. If you’re looking for a companion you can take for long walks, join the family on holiday and play with in the park, a cat isn’t going to be for you.
You also want to be careful if you have very young children – cats tend to be far less tolerant of being poked, picked up and generally disturbed when they’re not in the mood, and aren’t shy of lashing out with their claws when provoked, no matter how innocently.
In short, if you’re looking for a pet that will share your living space, demand some love and attention but not too much, and not impinge too much on your lifestyle, then a cat is probably for you.
Why should I get a dog?
When you take a dog into your home, you’re making a far bigger commitment that you do with a cat – in terms of your time, your finances and your independence. But the rewards can also be much greater.
For a family, having a dog is going to be much like adding an extra child. For a single person, their dog can often become their new best friend, ready to join them on any adventure. Dogs tend to offer their love and companionship pretty much unconditionally, so as long as you’re good to them, they’ll pay back that warmth in spades.
You can’t leave them at home on their own for any length of time, so if you’re a busy person who’s always out and about and without the spare time to spend with your dog, you need to think twice before taking on the commitment. On the other hand, unlike cats, you can take them away with you, so they’ll happily join you on family holidays in the UK.
A well-trained dog can also be a great playmate for children, who will enjoy playing with it in the garden and the local park, and is likely to be far more tolerant of younger children than a cat.
Of course, you do need to put more effort in with a dog as well. We’ve already mentioned that you need to make sure they are regularly walked – although that exercise will be just as good for you as it is for them, even if it doesn’t feel like it on a cold and rainy evening. You’re also going to need to spend time training them if you acquired your dog as a puppy, as well as washing and grooming them.
In short, if you’re looking for a pet that will also be your friend in life or a playmate for your kids, a dog is likely to be the best choice for you.
If you’re a cat or dog owner and need a home-from-home to leave your pet while you’re away – whether it’s for a fortnight’s holiday abroad or just a day at work – Green Lane Farm Boarding Kennels and Cattery is the perfect choice. Our friendly and experienced team will make sure that your family’s friend is as loved and cared for as they would be at home.
We don’t care which is better between a dog and a cat – or even a rabbit, a guinea pig or a tortoise! – we’re committed to providing the best boarding facility for pet owners in and near Chessington, Kingston and the rest of Surrey.
Get in touch with us now to find out more or to book a stay for your pet.
