Differences Between Cats and Dogs

Let's discuss about the differences between cats and dogs. If you've ever had both a pet cat and a pet dog then you know how different they can be. They do have some similarities however they are very different pets in many ways.

Dogs can be considered doers while cats tend to be more of watchers. They both have quick reflexes, but they act and respond very differently. Dogs wag their tails when they are happy, cats don't wag their tail much and when they do it's usually the opposite of being happy.

Cats can do their business in a litter box, while dog's do not. Cats are usually considered more independent than dogs are. Cats and dogs obviously look different and act different, but is there more to it?

Cats and dogs are different because their biology is very different. With domestic cats and dogs you probably don't even realize, but cats are actually considered carnivores while dogs are omnivores. You may have heard of some people feeding their dogs a vegetarian diet. This probably isn't the ideal and most healthy diet for a dog, however a dog can easily live off of a vegetarian diet. On the other hand, cats cannot. Cats need meat in their diet.

Cats and dogs have some amazing biological traits. Humans, cats, and dogs all need vitamin C. We get it from food, beverages, and supplements. Cats and dogs' bodies actually make enough vitamin C that they don't need to consume things containing vitamin C. However, their bodies don't make enough of every nutrient for them which is why cats are carnivores.Some other differences are that cats need more protein in their diet than dogs do. The protein goes toward an animal's growth and metabolism.

Dogs can actually go through periods of starvation. Obviously, a pet should never have to go through this, but unfortunately a dog in the wild may not be able to find food sometimes. Their body would use their fat reserve to have energy. A wild cat's body, on the other hand, can't handle prolonged fasts.

Cats and dogs are different, but the one thing they do have in common is that they make great pets.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.