Claws vs Paws
Andrew Buis
In the age-old battle between cat lovers and dog lovers, there has always been a clear winner. Society today tells us there are some unique benefits that come with cats, that far outweighs the need for a dog. Here is some validation for the cat people out there.
Expensive Dog Food
Runaway Dog
A dog being off of a leash can cause them to feel the need to bolt, escape, look for food, or find something to do. Sometimes running away can become self-rewarding behavior. When dogs run away they get to roam wherever they please, dig in the neighbor's yard, chase cats, and hang out with other dogs. You will very rarely ever have to chase a cat because of its calm attitude that the cat has.
Destructive
Normal behaviors for dogs include chewing, playing, exploring, and investigating their environment. However, these normal behaviors can result in the destruction of household property, This can become a serious and frustrating problem for owners. Dogs often behave destructively to relieve anxiety or as an outlet for excess energy, which is shown in the dug up flowers.
Small Lifespan
Cats live longer than dogs and it's because they're so aloof. Being independent helps them avoid disease and can boost their lifespan by three years. While dogs are sociable animals, cats like to keep to themselves. Cats also have more natural defense against attack. While dogs claim a fearsome set of teeth, cats have sharp claws and tremendous agility. This cuts the odds of them catching and spreading disease.
Vicious Dog
Dogs have a natural behavior called predatory chase drive. Dogs sense an overwhelming desire to chase things, such as small chickens, cars, bikes, scooters, and many more. The movement of the other animal triggers the dog to chase and is a part of normal dog behavior. This behavior can go from fun, like when your dog is chasing after a tennis ball, to a real nightmare for you if the drive becomes too high.
Despicable Fence Pricing
On top of the other outrageous costs of dog products, installing a modern day fence for a dog can be very expensive. It would cost about $800-$900 to have a hidden fence professionally installed in the same area, or about $200-$300 to do it yourself. You have to replace the battery in the dog collar every 3-4 months, depending on how often your dog tests the hidden fence.
Dog Allergens
Dog allergens are everywhere and cause humans to have mild allergic reactions. Dog allergens are even in homes and other places that have never housed pets. This is because people can carry dog allergens on their clothing. Cat allergens do not travel as easily. Very few species of cats spread their allergens. Also, allergens can get into the air when a dog is petted or groomed. Dog allergens can also be stirred into the air where the allergens have settled. This can happen during dusting, vacuuming or other household activities. Once airborne, the particles can stay suspended in the air for long periods.
Snatching Dog
A dog stealing food from its owner is a self-rewarding behavior that can be hard to break. This behavior can be very expensive to fix when fixed by a professional. Private classes with a professional trainer range from, $30 to $100 per hour, costing about $240 to $600 for six sessions. When the problem is dealt with by “the common person” the problem may never get resolved.
Puppy Child
Cute as they are, puppies aren't perfect and every new owner has times when they wonder what on earth is going on in their pets' head. Puppies take the same maintenance as a young child would. Barking, nipping, biting, chewing, peeing indoors, crying all night, and acting aggressively are pretty much an accepted part of puppy parenting. Kittens have been proven to mature much faster than a puppy.
Dog Depression
While cats are so drawn back and can’t get depression due to a lack of interest in its owner, dog depression can lead to behavior problems. The most common sign of dog depression is over sleeping. If your dog suddenly loses interest in playing, going for walks, and other things that would normally excite her/him, take notice. Dogs who become less active, slow down, or seem to lose purpose may be suffering from dog depression.
Conclusion
The argument of "cats versus dogs" can start a war, end a marriage, or strain a friendship. For cats, it's no contest. Their inspired playfulness and independent spirit are the secret envy of some humans, many of whom wish they could spend their own days batting at a catnip mouse and napping in the sun rather than tapping a computer keyboard. Even some die hard dog lovers have inched toward the light of the catlike side, drawn by their low maintenance lifestyle and excellence household qualities.