One cat’s meat is another dog’s poison

Cats and dogs are, in many ways, worlds apart. The former are associated with more charisma and independence, the latter are known for their affection for their master. Some generalizations formulated in this respect are appropriate, others completely miss the point.

Although cats, just like dogs, are domesticated animals, they are still capable of surviving in the wild. The reason behind this is that they have not been affected by major changes during the domestication process. At the same time, they can adapt smoothly to the conditions characteristic of a modern household. A cat will always find itself a place or a recess in a house that will look as though it had been designed specifically for that cat. A dog will never be able to fit in perfectly with the surroundings.

The paradoxical nature of the whole issue of domestication lies in the fact that cats have remained resilient, while dogs have become more vulnerable to their living conditions. This does not affect the responsibility that pet owners have, be it dogs or cats. Although cats also appreciate human company, they can be perfectly happy alone, while dogs are much more dependent on their owners. Sadly, not everyone is aware of this. Well-meaning pet owners may not be aware of the shortcomings of their attitude. Social interaction is an essential part of a dog’s life. Those pet owners who cannot provide it have done nothing or very little to contribute to the well-being of their pet.