Do you have a family member with memory loss who could use a companion? If so, you might be wondering which type of pet is best. Cats and dogs have advantages when it comes to keeping your loved one company. So, which one should you choose for your loved one? Let’s explore the pros and cons of both cats and dogs for seniors:
Cats Are Quieter
Cats are quieter than dogs, which makes them better for your loved ones who are hard of hearing or have dementia. Like their canine counterparts, cats can be trained to do tricks and perform various functions that help your loved ones with their daily lives. However, they tend to be more independent-minded than dogs (determined by breed), so they may not require as much attention from their owners as dogs.
Cats also tend to enjoy being in rooms with people more than dogs do; this means that if you have an older adult living in your home who likes having pets around but doesn’t want quite as much interaction with them as someone else might prefer-or if multiple residents would like some company but don’t want it all day long-a cat might be just what everyone needs!
Dogs Are Easier To Train
When it comes to training, dogs are easier to train than cats. Dogs are more likely to obey commands and follow instructions, while cats tend to be independent creatures who don’t always want or need human intervention. This means that a dog might listen when asked not to jump on the bed or eat food off the floor while a cat will likely ignore such requests until they get bored with them-or worse, decide that they are fun!
Dogs also tend to be more excitable than cats and may bark at things like fireworks or thunderstorms (or even loud noises). If this bothers you, having a cat may be better for your needs since they’re naturally quieter animals overall.
Dogs Are More Loyal
Dogs are more loyal than cats. Dogs are social and affectionate, whereas cats tend to be independent and aloof. This makes dogs better companions for loved ones who need a lot of love and attention, especially those with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Cats can be territorial about their space but don’t necessarily guard it against others as dogs do. Their personality type will determine the best way for your loved one: some people prefer the company of a canine companion, while others will feel more at ease with a feline friend.
Cats Keep The House Cleaner
Cats are more independent than dogs, so they’re less likely to need attention and supervision. Also, cats are more likely to use litter boxes and scratching posts than dogs. So if you want your resident’s home environment to stay tidy, consider getting them a cat instead of a dog!
Dogs Allow Aging Family Members To Get Outside And Walk
Dogs are great for keeping seniors active. Many older adults cannot walk as much as they used to, so having a dog that needs exercise can help them get outside and move around more often. Dogs are also good at helping older people socialize with others in their community by providing opportunities for conversation when walking through parks together or bringing friends over for visits at home.
Conclusion
Both animals can provide companionship, unconditional love, and attention like no other pet can. If you’re looking for an animal companion for an aging family member who needs help with their memory, consider adopting one of these furry friends today!
