During my veterinary practice, people often ask me a question in Pakistan: “Doctor, if we want to have a pet, what advice would you give us? Should we get a cat or a dog?” You may also have this question in your mind: Which is better to have dogs or cats in Pakistan? People commonly keep dogs and cats as pets around the world. While some countries prefer dogs more, there are also countries where cats are preferred as pets. Many celebrities also have dogs and cats as pets, whom people in Pakistan follow. So, if you’re also concerned about what is better as a pet in Pakistan, we’ll discuss some factors and differences here that can help you prioritize your preferences more effectively.
Cats need less space While dogs need more
In the past two decades, Pakistan has seen rapid urbanization, significantly increasing city sprawl. As a result, urban populations are not only residing in small houses but also apartments. It’s important to note here that cats can comfortably live in small spaces and manage well even in tiny apartments, whereas dogs require more space. So, if you live in a small apartment, you should have a cat as your pet. However, it’s important to remember that if you leave a cat alone at home for some time, it doesn’t matter much, as cats naturally prefer quiet and secluded places. On the other hand, dogs might face separation anxiety if left alone and can become distressed.
Kittens and Puppies have different Priorities
After the weaning period of kittens and puppies, kittens require much less maintenance compared to puppies. As mentioned earlier, if you live in a busy city in Pakistan and your kitten is litter-trained, leaving it alone at home won’t be a concern as long as you meet all its basic needs. However, the same cannot be said for puppies. Leaving them alone at home can lead to not only anxiety issues but also health concerns. After experiencing separation anxiety, they might not only damage your furniture but also exhibit behavioural changes that can be troublesome for any owner.
Cats will keep your home Vermin Free While dogs will take care of Strangers
Cats are instinctively excellent hunters, which is why they keep your home pest-free. Any unwanted small or annoying creatures that may invade your home will not be able to enter because of them. On the other hand, people consider dogs the best pets for home protection because of their protective instincts. They can go to great lengths to protect your family. From here, there are various benefits for the people of Pakistan to keep either dogs or cats as pets. Now it’s up to you to decide which animal you prefer to keep as a pet.
Dogs have more maintenance needs than Cats
The most important maintenance requirement for any pet is grooming needs. You might be surprised to learn that dogs require much more grooming than cats. So, in Pakistan, for many people whose schedules are very tight due to their job nature and who cannot regularly groom their dogs, cats can prove to be a better choice. One significant reason is that cats spend about 50% of their time grooming themselves. They engage in self-cleaning to such an extent that they don’t necessarily need regular grooming from their owners. Additionally, cats naturally dislike bathing, and if you have to force a cat to bathe against its will, it can turn into a nightmare.
Societal Dilemmas against Dogs and Cats in Pakistan
If we talk about societal norms, every resident in Pakistan is aware that cats are much more accepted than dogs here. Due to religious viewpoints, people in Pakistan generally prefer cats over dogs as pets, and society also accepts them. Therefore, if you live in a posh area of a big city, people there may even consider dogs as acceptable due to modernization. However, if you reside in a rural or small town in Pakistan, you should prefer cats over dogs. Perhaps this societal acceptance and preference for cats over dogs are the biggest reasons why most people in Pakistan prefer to keep cats as pets in their homes.
Cats are Quieter While dogs could be a little Noisy
If you’re a level-headed person who prefers peace and tranquillity at home, dogs might not be the best choice for you. Dogs are creatures that love to express their feelings, whether in the form of barking or playful growls. When guests visit your home, your dog’s accustomed barking at strangers can be quite bothersome. Therefore, if you desire a quieter environment at home, it’s better to opt for a cat instead of a dog. Cats generally have a more peaceful and silent demeanour. While pet cats also meow to alert you of danger or fear, overall, dogs tend to be louder than cats. Consider choosing a cat over a dog if you live in a congested area in Pakistan and want to avoid disturbing your neighbours with your pet’s noise.
Also Read: Stray Dogs Problem in Pakistan and its Solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
Cats are generally better suited for small living spaces like apartments in Pakistan due to their ability to adapt to limited space.
Cats require less grooming than dogs in Pakistan. They spend a significant amount of time grooming themselves, reducing the need for regular grooming sessions.
Societal factors, including religious beliefs and urbanization, contribute to the preference for cats over dogs in Pakistan. Cats are often considered more acceptable and suitable pets in many communities.
Cats tend to be quieter than dogs and are less likely to disturb neighbours in congested areas of Pakistan. Their quieter demeanour makes them more suitable for apartment living.
Dogs are often valued for their protective instincts, making them popular as guard dogs in Pakistani households. Cats, on the other hand, are prized for their hunting instincts, helping keep homes free of pests.
