Dogs vs. Cats: The great divide/debate

Round 1: Brain power 🧠

Dogs’ brains have actually grown in size since humans domesticated them. Deep dive into the history of humans & dogs if you’re keen to know more.

Cats? They’ve stayed pretty much the same for the last 8,000 years.

But before dog lovers start celebrating, cats have almost twice as many neurons in their cerebral cortex as dogs. That means, in theory, they can process information faster… probably plotting your downfall while you sleep.

Round 1 winner: cats!

Round 2: Skills & training 🎓

Dogs have CVs that would put most of us to shame. We’re talking seeing-eye dogs, search-and-rescue heroes, therapy dogs, drug detectors, and even cancer sniffers.

Cats? Let’s just say they’re… selectively trainable. They’ll learn things if they feel like it, which, let’s be honest, is part of their charm.

Round 2 winner: dogs!

Round 3: Speed demons 🏁

Greyhounds can hit 40mph. The fastest cats (domestic, that is) only clock in around 30mph. Sure, that’s still faster than your morning jog, but in a straight race? The dog takes the medal.

Round 3 winner: dogs

Round 4: Super senses 👃

When it comes to smell, dogs leave cats in the dust. With up to 300 million scent receptors (compared to cats’ max of 80 million), dogs can sniff out everything from buried bones to your secret snack stash. Dogs can even sense illnesses!

Need more reassurance about the crazy capabilities of canine snouts, hearing & more? Read these 4 mind-blowing facts about your dog’s senses.

Round 4 winner: dogs

Round 5: Vocabulary 🗣️

The average dog can understand up to 165 words. That’s about the same as a two-year-old human. Cats average around 35 words, but again… they probably know more and just ignore you out of principle!

In cats’ defence though, studies in the past have pin-pointed 21 different domestic cat vocalisations, but new research from 2020 suggests that that’s probably an underestimate – they’re known to use subtle adjustments in tone, frequency and duration in order to convey different messages. 

Round 5 winner: based on human-to-pet communication alone, dogs

Round 6: Agility & hunting 🎯

Cats are the ninjas of the pet world. They can leap, twist, balance, and squeeze through spaces that make dogs look like clumsy oafs.

When it comes to hunting, cats tend to have the killer instinct. Dogs? Many will happily chase a squirrel… then panic when they actually catch it!

Round 6 winner: cats

via GIPHY

Round 7: Longevity & cleanliness 🛁

Cats tend to live longer – around 13 years on average compared to dogs’ 11. They also spend up to half their day grooming. That’s right! They give themselves a daily spa treatment.

Dogs… well, let’s just say they’re more of the “roll in something smelly things” type. 

Round 7 winner: cats

Round 8: Peace & quiet 🤫

Dogs bark. At the mailman…At leaves…At literally nothing. It’s one of life’s mysteries! And, did you know dogs don’t tire from barking?! *sigh* Read these tips on how to help control their barking.

Cats? They know the power of silence… except for the occasional meow when they actually have something important to say (like “feed me now” or “your laptop is my bed”).

Round 8 winner: cats

So, who wins? 🏆

If you’re keeping score, it’s basically a draw.

And this is exactly why this debate will rage on forever. Dogs bring loyalty, trainability, and enthusiasm. Cats bring elegance, independence, and quiet (well, sometimes quiet) cunning.

Whether you’re Team Dog, Team Cat, or just here for the cute memes, there’s one thing we can all agree on:

When you’re away, your furry friend deserves the best care.

Book a trusted Mad Paws Sitter and know your pet – dog or cat – is in good hands!