Cats vs. Dogs

Cats and dogs are two of the most popular domesticated animals in the world. While the terms can refer to more general groups of animals (such as the cat family, which includes lions, cheetahs, and jaguars) they are more often used to refer to just the domesticated breeds.

A cat is a carnivorous mammal that is part of the feline species, ranging from small domesticated varieties to large wild beasts. As mammals, cats are covered in fur and give birth to live young. Most have retractable claws and are nocturnal (active at night). Cats generally have vertical pupils and are adapted to see well in low light. Many purr or roar.

A dog is a carnivorous mammal that is part of the canine species, ranging in size and easily domesticated. Although most dogs are pets, there are wild dingoes and distantly related wolves. As mammals, dogs are covered in fur and give birth to live young. There are hundreds of different breeds of dog ranging in size, fur type, structure, and behavior. Most dogs can growl and bark.

Cats and dogs are both the most popular house pets in the world. While both are domesticated and can be trained, cats tend to be more self-sufficient while dogs generally seek more attention and exercise.