Comparison between Cats and Dogs - Essay Example

Cats and dogs have some vital differences. These differences are as follows:

The origin of dogs can be found in wolves. Dogs are considered to be descendants of wolves. It is widely held that dogs have evolved from wolves which had made their entry to the northern hemisphere in search of food. Cats, on the other hand, find their origin in the Felidae family. It is believed that cats have been evolved around 12 million years ago (Carney, 2011).

A major physiological difference between cats and dogs is that the sense of hearing is better among cats compared to dogs. The hearing part of their body has been created in such a way that they can hear the kitten's as well as the rodents’ ultrasonic sounds (Carney, 2011).

The sense of smell is much better among dogs than among cats. Dogs generally have wet noses which help in dissolving the scent molecules and thus help them in detecting those smells that can not be perceived by any human being. Hence, dogs are used to catch criminals by police forces across the country. Cats do not possess such characteristics (Carney, 2011).

Cats are carnivores, while dogs are omnivores (Carney, 2011).

The average life of dogs ranges from 12 to 14 years, while the average life of cats ranges from 9 to 15 years (Carney, 2011).

Dogs are considered to be the most loyal creature. Dogs are very faithful to their masters. Dogs obey their master’s orders instantly. Dogs are also very protective of their masters. Cats, on the other hand, are regarded as one of the most independent and distrustful creatures. Although cats are quite responsive to their owners than strangers, they are not as loyal as dogs to their masters (Carney, 2011).

Cat lovers very often argue that dogs are more expensive to maintain than cats. Dogs need substantial grooming and special types of foods to make them healthy and look good. Cats, on the other hand, do not need such maintenance costs. One needs only a little box, some toys, and a food bowl for a cat. While dogs need a regular bath, cats don't need to be bathed frequently as cats are quite efficient in taking care of their hygiene (Carney, 2011).

Dogs are considered to be wonderful companions for human beings as they form a habit of adjusting their daily routine with that of their masters. They possess a spirit of self-sacrifice which makes them the best friends of their owners. On the other hand, cats are known for their selfishness and notorious activities (Carney, 2011).

Based on the discussion above it can be said cats and dogs have their own good and bad characteristics. While dogs are highly dependent on their owners and become their faithful companions, cats do so. But cats should also be respected for their self-dependent nature. They are not as dependent as dogs on their masters and thus it is not quite necessary to pay much attention to the maintenance of cats. Similarly, while cats have a better sense of hearing, dogs have a better send of smell. Thus it would not be right to choose one as superior over the other.