Compare or Contrast: Cats & Dogs

 Monday 8th, November

Cats & Dogs: Feline & Canine

    How many times have you been asked: are you a cat person or a dog person? In almost every social interaction, individuals must pick a side and argue why that side is the best. Although, cats and dogs are widely comparable in characteristics such as their; territorial/ survival instincts, training and, ability to have a family. Individuals may brag and make wisecracks as to why the animal in question is the best companion. Conversely, cats and dogs differ in their; physical characteristics, general behaviour and, diets.

    When it comes to physical characteristics, there are discrepancies between cats and dogs. Apart from the evident difference in size, they have dissimilarities in the five senses, locomotion, and the teeth & mouth. Cats and dogs have the same five senses, as do humans. However, "to very different degrees"; as some senses are heightened or underdeveloped. Cats have sharp eyes that can see considerable details. In addition, they have excellent visual acuity & binocular vision, which help them judge speed and distance better. Second, cats are sensitive to sound and can hear above and below the range of frequencies. The fluid in their semicircular (ear) canals helps them maintain balance and quickness. Also, felines do not rely on their sense of smell as it isn't well developed. However, they are over-particular about odors and try to cover bad smells. Smell plays a part in the taste and enjoyment of food; for this reason, veterinarians recommend you keep cats' bowls away from the litter box. Felines are agile hunters because their muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and spine are very flexible. Their normal gait is a pace, but they can leap, run, twist, walk, and even roll into a ball. Third, cats have sharp, curved, and retractable claws that provide discretion when sneaking on prey. They have 26 deciduous (baby) teeth. And develop 30 permanent (adult) teeth between 5 and 7 months of age. A feline tongue has tiny thorn-like structures that give it a sandpaper texture that helps with grooming. Contrastly, dogs have less visual acuity, meaning they can not distinguish fine details well. Unlike cats, they can only hear sounds at high frequencies and are more susceptible to developing ear inflammation and infections. Dogs have an acute sense of smell that can detect and distinguish odors at low levels. Hence the use of dogs to search for drugs and people. They can taste certain smells because of an organ at the roof of their mouth. However, their distinct taste is poor. All four limbs of a canine facilitate locomotion, giving them the ability to walk and sprint. Like horses, dogs share the same four gaits: walk, trot, canter, and gallop. Despite both companions having claws, dogs' are referred to as toenails which are dull, thick, and brittle. These toenails dig holes and provide traction while running. Dogs have 28 deciduous (baby) teeth. And develop 42 permanent (adult) teeth between 2 and 7 months of age, 12 more than their feline counterparts. A canine tongue is smooth, wet, and less effective at grooming.

    Individual personality and environmental factors influence companions' behaviour and preference. And can affect their vocalization, pack/clowder mentality, and activity schedule. A clear difference between felines and canines is the sound they make. However, the way they communicate through body language is also different. When angered, frightened, or irritated, a cat's hair stands up, and they let out a low snarl and stare that tells whoever to stop bothering them. Felines are traditionally independent - solitary. Generally, they do not need clowders (groups) and don't create a hierarchy. However, they can form social groups; but hunting remains a solo activity. Since they are content with being alone, a suggestion is that owners take the first step in getting acquainted. Both companions are active; what differs is the time in which they use their energy. During the day, cats are mostly sleeping. Meaning at night, they are more active and playful. Also, cats enjoy things like 'laser chase' but are not very athletic. In contrast, when a dog displays confidence, their hair stands on their shoulder and neck. When angered, their ears flatten, their head lowers, and they let out a low growl through closed mouths & tight lips. Unlike felines, canines are pack members and work well in groups. Dogs create hierarchy; hence owners may note that their pets involve themselves in their routine and looks for them for direction. Also, during the night, dogs are mostly sleeping. Meaning at daylight, they are more active and playful. Since dogs are the more athletic companion, they enjoy running and going on walks.

    A diet is essential for nutrition and good health. Both companions are required to eat food so they can function. However, the quantity of food served is different, as is their eating habits. Cats are obligated carnivores and ingest more frequent meals. Since cats must eat meat, they require higher meat-based protein, fats, minerals, and vitamins. For instance, they can tolerate certain levels of vitamin D. Also, felines can regulate their food intake well throughout the day. Meaning they are not likely to overeat. On the contrary, dogs are omnivorous and can get by on less frequent meals. Since dogs eat a structured diet of both meat and vegetables, their nutritional requirements differ. For instance, a dog can not survive on a cat's diet because it would cause a nutritional imbalance and health issues. Also, canines do not regulate their food intake. Meaning they are more likely to consume food paste their point of satisfaction. For this reason, owners should avoid crossover of cat and dog food and consult a veterinarian for a meal plan.

    Whether you are a cat or a dog person, the distinguishing characteristics between our fur friends are limitless. No need to argue on which companion is the better. You can own both! Regardless of the dissimilarities in their features, conduct and, the food they eat.

Reference

Bukowski, J. A., & Aiello, S. (n.d.). Description and Physical Characteristics of Dogs. MSD Manual: Veterinary Manual. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/description-and-physical-characteristics-of-dogs/description-and-physical-characteristics-of-dogs

Bukowski, J. A., & Aiello, S. (n.d.). Description and Physical Characteristics of Cats. MSD Manual: Veterinary Manual. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/description-and-physical-characteristics-of-dogs/description-and-physical-characteristics-of-dogs

The differences and similarities between cats and dogs. (2019, September 4). Purely Pets: Pet insurance specialists. https://www.purelypetsinsurance.co.uk/blogs/the-differences-and-similarities-between-cats-and-dogs/