This article was originally published by Cape Fear Voices/Teen Scene. It has been republished with permission as part of We Are’s international student voice partnership.
Getting your first pet is a big responsibility. You have to provide the proper care for it, and you need to get a pet that you can take care of and manage. You need to have the proper funds to afford and care for the pet. Both cats and dogs are good “beginner” pets, but which one is truly better?
Cats
Cats are good pets for people who don’t like noise. Since cats are asleep most of the time during the day, they’re easier to manage since they’re less energetic and often just want to rest or sit in your lap. Some cats, however, have more energy, but overall, cats are a good pet for people who like pets with less energy. It all just depends on the cat.
Cats only really ever make sounds when they need something, so they’re good for people with a low noise tolerance. They also don’t have to go outside to use the bathroom, as they usually use a litterbox. Plus, they’re more cost effective, costing around $635 yearly, compared to dogs, which can cost up to around $3,500.
The behavior of cats varies from cat-to-cat. For example, if you want a more energetic cat, orange tabby cats have lots of energy and love to play. If you want a more relaxed cat, you can choose a breed like the Birman.
Dogs
If you’re looking for a more energetic pet, then dogs are for you. They value their owner’s attention and are more easily trained. They enjoy going outside and playing. They come in lots of different sizes, so you can choose the size you like best. Unlike cats, they enjoy being around their owner as much as possible.
Dogs are also better for children. They’re usually more playful than cats, so children would like to be around them, as most kids also have lots of energy.
Like cats, dogs’ personalities vary from dog-to-dog. Some dogs are quiet, while some like to burst out your eardrums (like mine). Breeds like the Shih Tzu are good for children as they are small and overall good family dogs. If you’re trying to look for a family dog, I don’t recommend the Chow Chow. They’re super stubborn and difficult. If you’re looking for a dog, pick a breed that’s right for you.
So, which animal is better?
When it comes to pets, especially cats or dogs, there isn’t one right answer for everyone. The animal you get should be based on which one you think is better and is most effective for you. If you’re willing to fork up some extra money, dogs are a great option for your first pet. If you want a calmer and more laid-back pet, cats are best for you. In conclusion, both cats and dogs are good pets to work with, but the one you choose should be based on which one you think would be good for you.
