Dogs Versus Cats, Study Reveals Seemingly Uneven Attachment by Humans

Dogs versus cats, the great debate of animal lovers. Chances are that you have been asked if you are a dog person or a cat person. The two preferences seem to carry different connotations with them. Cats are typically seen as more aloof and independent, while dogs are traditionally viewed as more attached to their humans. But, one group of researchers from the University of Copenhagen wanted to take this question even further. Which of the two most popular animal companions did people love more?, they wondered. Their results were published in the scientific journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

To discover the answer to their question, the researchers surveyed a cross-section of people with animal companions. They focused on only three countries: Denmark, Austria, and the United Kingdom. Across these three countries, they asked people a series of questions about how they felt about dogs versus cats. Of the more than 2,000 people surveyed, 844 had dogs alone, 872 had cats alone, and 401 had both dogs and cats. 

In all three countries, participants seemed to feel more attached to their dogs than to their cats. Dogs were more likely to be insured, expected more options for veterinary treatment, and paid more for their animal companions’ treatment. However, the level of difference between dogs and cats varied across the three countries. 

In the United Kingdom, only a small gap in emotional attachment favoring dogs existed. The largest gap seems to exist in Denmark. Researchers believe that cultural norms and attitudes towards companion animals may explain some of these differences. They also believe that it is possible that the results would vary widely if people from other countries were surveyed. Indeed, it is possible that in some countries, emotional attachment to cats could be higher than to dogs. So, it seems the dog versus cat debate is yet to be definitively settled. 

We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to adopt instead of shop. Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal. We recommend using these apps to find shelter dogs near you!

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