When getting a new pet, there is always the need to weigh in the pros and cons. Some might say that dogs are more loving and family animals than cats are, while others say that cats can be just as affectionate. In this article we are going to be talking about what is good and what is bad about both of them.

Dogs are generally known for being more family friendly when it comes to them versus cats. They are known for being very affectionate and they make great company. If you are into running, dogs need a lot of exercise, so they are good for going with you. There are many different breeds, big and small to accommodate to whatever type you are looking for. Not only are dogs family friendly, but they are also very loyal, which means they will protect you. Different types of breeds are better for protecting, but most of the time, if you are loyal to your dog, they will give you the same love back. Although there are quite a lot of pros to having a dog, there are some cons that go along with them. For one, they can be very expensive. Dogs require lots of care such as food, room to exercise, walks, check-ups, etc. If you don’t have a lot of free time, a dog is probably not the best option for you. They can get lonely and depressed and become destructive. Along with being expensive and time-consuming, you also have to think of them when making plans such as going away somewhere. You have to find a place or a person to take care of them which can also cost a lot of money. When dogs are still puppies, they require TONS of attention along with training. Therefore, if you are going to choose to have a dog as a pet, make sure to do a lot of research about them as well as really think about whether they will be good for your situation.

Now cats can be the complete opposite of dogs. They are typically known to be more independent and don’t require as much attention, but that may not always be the case. In my experience, cats can be just as loving as dogs while not requiring as much time put to them. They are low maintenance and don’t take up as much room as dogs. As long as there is a litter box and the food bowls, they are good. Not only are they low maintenance, they are also more affordable than dogs are. Adoption fees are much cheaper than they are for dogs and not only that, but they don’t need the exercise and attention dogs do. They are perfectly content napping or lounging around the house. They don’t need to go outside, let alone they are much safer inside. They may not be as cuddly as dogs, but they can be very affectionate. They like being pet and snuggled up the same as dogs, but they do need their alone time a little more. Another thing that they don’t do that dogs do is bark. They are much quieter and less of a mess. Cats can also keep pests away, such as mice, roaches, rats, gophers, etc. Last but not least, cats clean themselves, they don’t require tons of baths and that means they don’t need as much maintenance as said before. If you are going to get a cat, don’t expect them to be as clingy as dogs are and remember to give them the space they need every once in a while.

I talked to a couple friends and wanted to hear their feedback on it.

Q: Which animal do you think is better to get when choosing between a cat and a dog? Why?

A: Victoria Spears (12), an animal enthusiast who fosters cats and dogs, “ I believe that it is all about how much time you have on your hands and how much of a responsibility you can handle. Dogs are a lot of work, while they may be more affectionate, if you don’t have the time, you should probably get a cat. They are affectionate while being independent at the same time.”

Aaron Lucatero (12), who has 2 puppies, “ Personally with my dogs, they are very whiny and require a lot of exercise which we don’t always have time for. Cats can be outdoors and do their own thing and not bother as much as dogs.”

In conclusion, I believe that it is important to really look at all of the pros and cons of having a dog or a cat. Try to see how much time you have on your hands and whether or not you want an animal who requires a lot of attention. If you don’t want either and you think both are too much work, then maybe a fish is good for you. 🙂