Main differences between cats and dogs
Besides the obvious differences in appearance, cats and dogs also differ in terms of the conditions they are most likely to develop.
While cats are less likely to get injuries because they are naturally cautious, dogs are more predisposed to developing joint wear and tear. As for the illnesses they can develop, cats are usually prone to immune deficiency, diabetes, asthma, or food allergies, while dogs generally get illnesses like external parasites, skin disorders, lymphoma, or pancreatitis.
At the same time, these two species deal with medications in different ways. Because cats have small dosages of liver enzymes, they cannot break down certain meds such as pain drugs, which, when not broken down, become toxic. Dogs handle the same medications much better, similarly to us, humans, when administered in low dosages.
Other differences consist of the lifestyles they need. Cats are more comfortable in limited, indoor spaces and, since they are more independent, they require less attention from their human parents. They are though adorable, affectionate, relaxing, and fun.
Dogs, on the other hand, need much more stimulation, to be walked outdoors regularly, and to have fresh air. They are much more sociable than cats, requiring human presence throughout the day, and they love being trained and groomed. They are very interactive, playful, faithful, and just plain lovely.
How pet insurance differs in terms of species
Because of the reasons explained above, but also because cats are less likely to develop conditions as often and the treatments of cat illnesses are less expensive than those of dogs, cat insurance plan prices range on average from $10 to $40, while for dogs – from $25 to $70.
The table below contains a few more explicit examples of price differences between costs of monthly premiums for cats and dogs from three different pet insurance companies.
Monthly premium costs also differ depending on the breed for both species, with insurance for the most expensive breeds costing more in terms of prices for the monthly plans.
No matter which one you choose, both cats and dogs make great friends and companions. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), a leading national public health institute in the U.S., studies have proven that the connection between us humans and our pets can increase our fitness levels, decrease stress, and lower, among others, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, loneliness, and much more. Feel free, therefore, to adopt that cat or dog you’ve always dreamed of and live happily with a new family member that will repay you with plenty of unconditional love and acceptance.
Irina P.
Richard C.
