Cats and dogs are the 2 most common types of pets. A survey by Rakuten Insights Proprietary Panels in January 2021 showed that of all Indonesians who own pets, 47% have cats and 10% have dogs.

In addition to differences in physical and character, choosing a cat or dog must also consider your situation as the owner: lifestyle, availability of space, daily activities, and of course, the budget you can allocate for them.

So, cat or dog, which one do you prefer?

Cat

+ More independent

+ Less noise

+ Cleaner (self-grooming, pooping and peeing in an easy-to-clean litter box)

+ Does not require a large space + Relatively easier maintenance + Relatively cheaper maintenance costs

Cats are "lone hunters". Cats in the wild prefer to hunt alone and are more active at night. Cats can also entertain themselves and do exercise without the company of their owners. This trait makes cats often look indifferent to humans.

But don't worry, most cats do take longer to adapt to their new environment and family. Cats that have adapted well are also capable of showing great affection for their owners!

The independent nature of cats makes them more popular with owners who are busy outside the home and don't have much time to take care of them. Just provide food and drinking water, toys, a litter box for peeing and pooping, you can stay in the cat all day. The cat's habit of self-grooming also makes them not need to be bathed often, 1-2x a month is usually enough to keep their skin and fur clean and healthy.

Keeping a cat is also relatively cheaper than a dog because of its smaller size. Automatically, the portion of food is smaller, the cost of grooming is cheaper, to the cost of going to the doctor, medicines, and medical procedures that are relatively cheaper. Even toys for cats don't need to be expensive; Even a piece of string or used cardboard can really cheer them up.

Dog

+ More active, prefer to invite and be invited to play

+ Easier to socialize with humans and other animals

+ Easier to adapt to new environments

+ Easier to train

+ Loyal, will do anything to please and take care of the owner

+ Change the owner's lifestyle to be healthier and more active

+ Has many types of breeds, sizes and traits to choose according to preferences

+ Certain breeds can have many uses, such as being a guard dog, detection, herding, guide (for the disabled), and as a therapy dog.

So, which one do you want to choose?

Choosing a cat or a dog is like comparing apples to oranges; each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Adjust to your circumstances as a consideration for choosing the right pet. Having pets is a responsibility, and they deserve to be able to live a healthy and happy life with you!

Maharrani, A. (2021, June 21). Almost half of Indonesians keep cats, Asians prefer dogs. Lokadata. https://lokadata.id/articles/almost-separuh-orang-indonesia-piara-kucing-asia-select-anjing