We need pets to keep us company and for other personal gratifications. Dogs and cats come top of the list of ideal pets to have.
If you are in the dilemma of whether to go for a dog or a cat, cleanliness is one factor to consider besides breed, looks, and temperament. This leads us to the question: Are cats cleaner than dogs?
Cats’ Cleanliness Vs. Dogs’
Cats are cleaner than dogs in nature. They spend 50% of their day checking and grooming themselves, whereas dogs are not as keen on the act.
Why do we say this?
1. Personal Grooming
You cannot compare the self-grooming abilities of a cat to those of a dog, not on any day. Felines have features that make it easier for them to clean up than canines.
A cat has a barbed tongue, which is slightly rough to the touch. The microscopic structures let the cat lick off debris from their skin and coat. It could be hair, dead skin cells, or parasites like fleas. The act also aids in quicker healing of any superficial lesions on their body.
When you look at a cat’s paws, they are more flexible and supple. It helps them reach practically almost any part of their body during self-care.
A dog, on the other hand, is not as able. It can only reach and clean its paws and private parts.
2. Toilet Habits And Potty Training
You will be surprised at how much cats share in common with humans in toilet habits. For starters, cats mostly answer nature’s call in private – not subject to the prying and curious eyes of their housemates. Once done doing their business, they make a point to cover up their urine and poop, saving everyone around the punishment of a stench.
In addition to keeping the environment and home clean, cats also hide their urine and droppings to avoid attracting any other felines and probable predators to their location. It’s been centuries since man adopted and domesticated cats, and even after all this time, cats still have this instinct and trait.
If your cat’s litter box is unclean or smelly, you will find your cat avoids using it to help themselves.
As opposed to the mannerisms displayed by cats, your dog friend will find leave feces at random places around your home. They are not bothered by leaving their waste in the open after relieving themselves. Moreover, dogs like urinating along paths they pass or fences and tree trunks to leave their mark, totally unbothered.
On the contrary, in an attempt to mark its territory, a cat simply rubs against surfaces.
3. Do You Smell That?
Both the waste from dogs and cats can be very stinky. However, how the two pets carry themselves on this one is very different.
On infrequent occasions, you will find yourself cleaning your cat because they are smelly. Cats are keen on keeping clean and getting rid of most skin flakes on their fur, reducing the chances of a stench.
On the other hand, dogs are not as keen on self-cleaning and will require a lot of help to maintain proper hygiene. They will not try to get rid of the dander, parasites, or fur off their bodies; hence if you don’t bathe your dog regularly, you will not like the aftermath.
Feline and canine breaths can be sour because their mouths harbor many bacteria. Still, your dog may be smellier than your cat. Use pastes and toothbrushes that are specially designed to aid their dental hygiene.
Cat Shedding Vs. Dog Shedding
Both cats and dogs shed. Some cat breeds shed more than others, and this applies to dogs too. Examples of cat breeds that tend to shed the most are Ragdolls, Maine Coons, Norwegian Forest felines, and Ragamuffins.
Dogs that shed the most include German shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, Golden Retrievers, and the Saint Bernard’s breed.
A cat’s fur and skin flakes are more refined and lighter than a dog’s and usually remain suspended in the air longer. Dander and fur from a cat are also dispersed farther by wind than a dog’s.
Which Is Easier To Groom, A Dog Or A Cat?
Here, the dogs have it. They are way easier to groom and clean in comparison to cats. Advantageously, cats love self-care. It makes it easier since they can be a handful to groom. It is a case of hit or miss, and most are misses.
1. Nail Trimming
A dog’s nails will always be easier to trim. In their making, their claws are not designed for retraction. They are out in the open, and cutting them is pretty straightforward.
Related: 10 Best Dog Nail Clippers
For cats, trimming their nails can be an uphill task. They are always ready to retract their claws at the slightest touch, especially from a stranger or someone they don’t like or trust. This property does not help when you try to cut their nails.
With a dog, nail trimming is a one-person job. With a cat, however, you will need an aiding hand. One person must hold out the nails as the other trims them. If your cat is not relaxed, you may have to stop the process before you finish.
2. Dental Care
A dog’s mouth is smellier than a cat’s, but the good thing is, it is easier to brush a dog’s teeth. A dog is more trusting and hence will be more still for you.
For both, however, it is advantageous if you start training them at a young age as it is harder to teach an old pet new tricks.
Comparing the two animals in old age: it is easier to brush a dog’s teeth; a cat may prove to be a no-go zone.
Parting Shot
You are no longer wondering which of the two pets is cleaner. It is evident cats take the trophy home on this one.
If you are trying to decide which of the two to take home as a pet, and cleanliness is an essential factor, you know which one to pick.