In more than one way, pets are important to us and our development as humans. Asides from the mental boost they provide by giving us companionship to help us manage loneliness and depression, pets can also help us decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels if we regularly walk or play with them. For those that are openminded about housing one, pets are like ‘dummy children’—you are saddled with parental responsibilities, even though our society doesn’t exactly consider them worthy to be catered to. If it’s a journey you’re willing to embark upon, then we’re here to help you out. But first, do you even know if you’re a cat or dog person? Here’s a guide to help you navigate your first pet adoption.

Nana Otedola

Companionship

A cat person is independent. Cats owners are likely to be autonomous and content with alone time. A dog person takes pleasure in companionship. With a heart full of compassion and benevolence, a dog person can prove to be the best life companion.

Creativity and Duty

A cat person tends to be creative, artistic and imaginative. Cat people find it easier to come up with original ideas and novel solutions. A dog person is an efficient planner. Due to their strong sense of duty and self-discipline, a dog person is pragmatic and an effective planner too.

Emotional Intelligence

A cat person is witty and sarcastic. Cat people are likely to have a good sense of humour, they enjoy satires and ironic puns. They are also neurotic— easily stressed, anxious and worriers.

A dog person is toughminded. With their ability to focus more on situations instead of emotions, a dog person tends to possess tough-mindedness.

Openness

A cat person is open to new experiences. Due to their curious nature, cat people tend to be more adventurous and courageous. They are nontraditional thinkers.

A dog person is sociable and outgoing. According to Huffington Post, a dog person gets comfortable in social gatherings so easily that every individual becomes their best friend.

People Interaction

A cat person could be over-cautious and reserved. They are generally guarded people and have a more cautious approach to life. A dog person is agreeable. A dog person is usually altruistic, kind and owns a selfless concern for others’ welfare.

Affection and Loyalty

A cat person values affection. Cat people often need constant assurances, therefore, they value and cherish endearments. A dog person is loyal and devoted. Being a true friend and protector, a dog person is extremely loyal to his loved ones and will always stand by their side.

Now that you know if you are a dog or cat person, here are a few things to consider before getting either one.

Doggie Upside

Loving and Loyal

Dogs have rightfully earned their reputation as man’s best friend. No matter the size or breed, a dog provides a lifetime of love and loyalty. Dogs are social animals, and they thrive on human companionship. Certain breeds, such as Rottweilers, also make excellent protectors.

Boundless Energy

If you’re looking for a playmate, it doesn’t get much better than a dog. Most breeds are playful and love to be outdoors. A dog can be a great companion for jogging, hiking, or a leisurely stroll in the park. If you’re trying to get in shape, Fido is a fantastic exercise companion. Exercise is as important for dogs as it is for people.

Doggie Downside

Must Be Trained

Even the best dog can have some not-so-cute behaviours. Dogs bark, jump up, dig, tug at the leash, or even growl and bite. To curb bad behaviour, you need to teach your dog what’s OK and what’s not. Some dogs are easy to train, while others take more time and practice. Either way, your time and money spent on obedience classes will make your dog a delightful pal for years to come.

Kitty Upside

Independent

Cats are famously low-maintenance. They don’t need to be bathed or taken for walks. They can be left on their own for hours at a time. Even though cats like to do their own thing, they still need plenty of love and attention. Devote some time each day to playing with your cat, grooming them, or just giving them some TLC.

Cosy Companion

When it comes to cuddling, cats take the prize. And most cat owners will tell you the sound of a purring cat is deeply soothing. In fact, when researchers looked closely they found stress levels and blood pressure dropped slightly in people who snuggled up to a purring kitty.

Kitty Downside

Can Be Standoffish

Some cats love to socialize, but others prefer to stay hidden, especially when new people visit. In fact, your friends may not even realise you have a cat! Cats who weren’t around people enough as kittens may be skittish. Even the friendliest cat will jump off your lap and sashay off when they have had enough of your attention.

Kehindé Fagbule
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Self-identifies as a middle child between millennials and the gen Z, began writing as a 14 year-old. Born and raised in Lagos where he would go on to obtain a degree in the University of Lagos, he mainly draws inspiration from societal issues and the ills within. His "live and let live" mantra shapes his thought process as he writes about lifestyle from a place of empathy and emotional intelligence. When he is not writing, he is very invested in football and sociopolitical commentary on social media.