How are cats and dogs different? What to Know

Five differences that show why dogs and cats have different needs.

With cats and dogs the most popular pets in the UK, it’s no surprise that they are often compared to one another in the great cats vs dogs debate.

Of course, we love both canines and felines equally, but there are some key differences that mean they need to be cared for in different ways – and some just might surprise you!

Here are five differences between cats and dogs, as well as a few ways they’re similar too!

How are cats different from dogs?

1. Cats were domesticated much later

While there is some debate around when exactly dogs were domesticated, it has been estimated to be up to 40,000 years ago, as they would have helped early humans to hunt. Cats on the other hand are believed to have been domesticated only up to 12,000 years ago when agriculture evolved, as they were effective for pest control. Find out more about the history of cats with our blog post.

2. Dogs are a more social species

Dogs have evolved from a social species and so they often benefit from some form of companionship. Cats however have evolved from a solitary species and so don’t need other cats to be their friends. In fact, cats can often become stressed when made to live with each other, unless they have a strong social bond. Take a look at our blog to find out if your cats are best friends.

3. Cats rely more on scent for communication

As they are a social species, dogs rely heavily on body language and facial cues to communicate with each other. As cats are more solitary, they rely more on scent for communication with other cats. Scent glands on their cheeks and paws mean they can let other cats know where they’ve been by rubbing on or scratching surfaces. Want to know how your cat lets you know that they love you? Watch our video to find out.

4. Cats are better at hunting

Even though dogs have evolved from a species that would have been able to hunt in packs, they have not retained their hunting behaviour like cats have. Cats need to be able to express their natural hunting behaviour as it releases happy hormones in their brains, so it’s important that they have the opportunity to stalk and pounce on toys. Watch our video for tips on how to play with your cat to keep them happy.

5. Dogs don’t need to eat meat

Dogs are omnivores, meaning that provided they have a nutritionally balanced diet they do not necessarily need to eat meat. Cats, however, are obligate carnivores, so they must have meat in their diet in order to get all the nutrients they need to keep them healthy. For advice on what cats should and shouldn’t eat, take a look at our diet advice.

Dogs Can Be Vegetarians, But Cats Can’t

Dogs can be omnivores, while cats are strictly carnivores. Because cats cannot produce certain essential amino acids that are necessary for health, they must get them through diet.

“A few of those essential amino acids are only available in meat proteins—the two most necessary are taurine and arginine,” says Dr. Jeff Werber, a Los Angeles-based veterinarian and contributor to CBS’ “The Early Show” and “Sunday Morning.” “Taurine is necessary for eye health and healthy skin, and very important for heart health.”

Arginine is needed to produce ornithine, a different amino acid that binds to ammonia to make it non toxic to the body.

“Without it, ammonia build up can’t be neutralized, so it will become toxic to the cat,” says Werber. “Cats need a meat/fish diet to get their protein from animal sources [and] get these essential amino acids.”

The Surprising Differences Between Cats and Dogs

Whether you are curious about your own pets or just want to know the difference between the two, the cats vs. dogs debate is an ancient one.

Furthermore, if you are thinking about having both pets in the same house for the first time, then we’ve got you covered.

While some unique pets are getting more and more popular, dogs and cats are still ranking high as our favorite pets.

Here are the main differences between cats vs. dogs and why all pet owners who want to be in control need to know them.

This is the most obvious to our eyes. For instance, cats have claws that they mostly use for protection, catch and hold food, or climb. You can notice, some cat owners may have some small scratches on their arms or hands.

On the other hand, dogs’ claws are duller. They will always wear down their claws due to their outdoor activities.

The behavior and personality of cats vs. dogs vary greatly, especially depending on breed. Cat behavior revolves around sleeping most of the day and being playful in the evenings.

Dogs are social, active, and playful throughout the day. They prefer being by your side, going for walks, or simply enjoying your company.

Whether giving a warning or communicating pleasure and excitement, their sounds are dissimilar. Dogs will whine or sigh when happy. They will bark and bare teeth when intimidated or giving a warning.

Cats are strictly carnivores and require essential nutrients and amino acids, while dogs are omnivores and can eat like humans. Feeding your cat, especially if you are thinking about cat food for feral cats, should be in small quantities, fed frequently.

Dogs can eat both animal and plant-based products in larger proportions, less frequently. It’s important to understand your pet’s nutritional needs.

Cats are different from dogs in how they discharge their waste. Cats can learn how to potty train themselves with less of your effort. And most cat owners use a litter box kept indoors for their cats.

Dogs are picky about where they relieve themselves. You have to dedicate more time and effort to train your dog on where and when it’s appropriate to do this.

How these creatures use their bodies to communicate with humans is entirely different. For example, dogs wag their tails to show affection or indicate they want to play. Cats, on the other hand, wag their tails when displeased.

Yes, it’s possible to train cats. But a cat’s training sessions should be short and done independently.

It feels more natural to train dogs because humanity has been doing it for centuries. One can also train dogs in a group setting during longer sessions.

Cats have a better memory than dogs. Dogs have a short span to remember anything, less than 5 minutes; that’s why they need constant reminders. Cats, on the other hand, can remember things for 16 hours.

Your dog will get excited when you praise them. A pat on the head and a few words of praise help reinforce your dog’s good behavior. Cats don’t care as much about praise, but still want to feel appreciated.

Most dogs enjoy running and love to be taken for a walk. They have specific exercise needs and usually need you to accompany them.

Cats are more independent and will be active by themselves. They are agile and may occasionally play a game, like chasing the laser with you. Cats generally participate in less vigorous activities.