Puppy or Kitten – Which Pet Is Best?

You’d love to have a pet. Your parents have agreed that you can. They suggest you choose a puppy or a kitten.

So now you need to decide. Puppy or kitten – which pet should you get?

Before you can decide, you need to know more about these pets. What will it be like to have a puppy?

Or what would it be like to have a kitten?

Here are some ways you could find out:

  1. Read LOTS of books about having pets and pet care. You can find them at the library and by following the links on this page and elsewhere on this website.
  2. Talk to your friends who have pets. Ask them what it’s like to have their pet? What is their favourite thing about having this pet? Is there anything they don’t like about having their pet? Why?
  3. See if you can pet-sit with a dog or a cat that belongs to a family member or a friend. Spending an afternoon with a pet, playing with them, feeding them and cleaning up after them gives you an idea of what it will be like to have your own pet.
  4. Ask your parents and relatives who have pets, or had pets when they were children, what it’s really like to be a kid with a pet. Listen carefully to the stories they tell you. Then ask questions to be sure you understand what’s required to be a good pet parent.

Puppies and Kittens are a lot alike!

Both puppies and kittens have a LOT of energy. They play almost all the time when they aren’t sleeping!

Baby animals are very curious. This means, if you have a puppy or a kitten, you need to make your home safe for them. Just like very little children, baby pets can get into all sorts of mischief. They must be protected from harm while still being free to explore.

This is how they learn about their world.

Both kittens and puppies need fresh water, replaced two or three times a day.

Both need to be fed small meals several times a day.

Both need to be around people to learn how to be good pets. They need gentle care and attention from you every day.

Don’t think that you will play with them or take care of them only when you feel like it. Part of being a responsible pet parent (that’s you) is being sure that your kitten or puppy always has everything he or she needs to feel safe, secure and loved.

Remember, that adorable kitten is going to grow up to be a cat. That sweet puppy will become a dog. They could live a very long time – possibly until you are a grown-up. Choose the pet you will be happy to have for years to come.

Dogs and Cats aren’t alike in many ways

If you want a pet who will run and play with you, fetching a stick, catching a frisbee or ball or always happy to run on the beach and go for a swim, the pet you want is a dog. They’re always excited to go for a car-ride, go hiking or camping or on any other outdoor adventure!

If you want a pet who will curl up with you when you’re reading or watching TV, who is always happy to be close to you for quiet times, and who really doesn’t like going to the beach, you want a cat. Cats are always content to enjoy relaxing at home!

Cats never get very big. If you live in a small house or apartment (flat) there is always enough room for a cat.

Dogs come in every size, from small enough to fit in a tea cup to as large as a pony. But no matter what their size, all dogs need to go outside to walk, run, play and for their toilet.

That’s one of the big differences between dogs and cats: cats use a litter box. Some small dogs can also learn to use a litter box, but most dogs go outside to poop or pee. With a cat, you will be scooping out the litter box. With a dog, you will be cleaning up your backyard or garden.

All dogs and cats need their ears and faces cleaned and claws clipped at times. All dogs and cats need their fur brushed. Dogs also need baths (cats clean themselves).

Should I get just one pet?

If you choose to get a pet, think about getting two instead of just one. This is so they will keep each other company during the day when you and your family are away from home. Pets left home alone can get very worried and upset. It is better if they have a friend to keep them company.

Dogs can’t stay home alone all day. They need at least one bathroom break outside.

Cats mind less about being alone. They will mostly nap until you get home.

There’s a lot to learn and think about, before you become a pet parent!

You can learn what you need to know about caring for kittens and cats here.

And if you decide you really want a puppy or a dog, you will want to read this book.

Here are more books to help you decide which pet to get:

If you read these books, you are guaranteed to know more about pet cats and pet dogs than just about everyone you know (even your parents!).

Have lots of fun reading about cats and dogs and learning more about them!