According to the ASPCA, a large number of households in the United States have pets. Specifically, around 44% of all US homes have a dog as a pet, and 35% have cats in the home. This translates to approximately 78 million dogs and 85.8 million cats as pets. Keep in mind that many households are multi-pet homes with more than one animal.
As an aside, the majority of cats are acquired through rescues, while most dogs are purchased through breeders. I hope that in the near future more and more people will choose to adopt animals who need a safe and loving home. Around 6.5 million companion animals end up in animal shelters each year, and I think that we should do everything we can to help find each and every one of them a loving, forever home — if that means not purchasing a purebred dog from a breeder, then that’s what we need to do.
Shelter animals aside, I was particularly surprised by one of these statistics. It turns out that fewer homes have cats than dogs. I assumed that because cats are typically easier to care for and require less training, walking, and work, that more people would choose them over dogs. However, it appears that most pet owners, like me, prefer our high-maintenance pups over the easier-to-care-for cats. Perhaps it’s the unconditional love and joy that comes from dogs or the thought that cats are more aloof, but puppies are definitely the preferred pet.
At some point in your life, you may have been asked if you’re a dog or a cat person. For me, the answer is easy — dog person. But, my significant other’s answer is the exact opposite. He is definitely a cat person. Visiting his house means being surrounded by his adorable, friendly felines who are surprisingly good companions with entertaining, affectionate personalities.
However, meal times can be interesting. Where I have (mostly) managed to train my dogs not to beg, his cats haven’t gotten the message. They will do anything from sneaking to distracting to get their little paws on a single bite of human food.
The cat is this video is very similar and employs the clever “love and affection” tactic. He approaches his owner, showing him all kinds of kindness and affection, but when given the chance he shows his true intentions!
Watch the smart kitty in the video below!
