I have seen a few cats where the owners do not want them left alone.
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I am definitely a cat person. As a professional pet sitter and daily dog walker for 15 years, I’ve known tons of both cats and dogs and can’t imagine wanting a dog of my own. They are so needy and high maintenance as a rule. And I take issue with anyone saying cats are all aloof whereas dogs are so intuitive and loving. I would say it’s 50-50. About a third of the dogs and about a third of the cats I’ve cared for are skittish and very nervous, and about two-thirds of each species are friendly, meet me at the door, love to cuddle, and are gentle and intuitive. However, I think cats are more tuned into human emotions than dogs, and the cats I’ve owned and most that I’ve cared for comfort me if I’m sad, soothe me with purrs (a major plus over dogs!) and are just so intuitive. I also find cats far more fascinating. Dogs, to me, are simpletons who have their agenda of “Wait on me!” Another reason I prefer to care for and have my own cats is they don’t have to be trained. I highly dislike giving orders to anyone, including animals! But dogs for the most part behave according to commands. Most dog owners I’ve sat for need to go over the proper commands and regimented routines their dogs respond to. I will say I have cared for plenty of smaller, more cat-like breeds like small poodles and poodle mixes who don’t need to be told what to do and not do. Finally, another reason I prefer cats is they do their business in their litter boxes (if they’re indoor only), so my life doesn’t revolve around when they need to be let out in order to relieve themselves!
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I’ve only ever owned dogs in my lifetime, but I’ve always loved cats and wanted one. We weren’t able to growing up since my brother was allergic, and now I don’t think I can handle starting the journey of getting a cat and caring for it currently. With that being said, I think I’d be both since my love for cats has not weened even after multiple cat sits I’ve done when I was younger. I’d be more than happy to have a cat added to my little pet family in the future though.
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I’ve had some very distressing experiences looking after both cats and dogs. Cats bringing in live prey, or dead! Dogs fighting and killing a cat before my very eyes.. both cats and dogs are decisive about whether they will tolerate each other or not. I don’t like being referee. A dog died on a lead, over excited to be going out with me on a walk! That was a heart breaking moment, for sure. One dog you only had to say “Cat!” and he’d be out, like a shot, scouting the garden
I have sat both cats and dogs together and we’ve all slept in the same bed. Purrfectly lovely!
I suit a dog more as I love being out in all weathers I like exploring and the challenges of hiking. This winter is Spain has been exceptional: rain, wind, flooding, landslides and lots of snow on higher ground. In the comfort of home a cat on my lap is lovely. The dog can be a furry hot water bottle too!
This poodle / Shnauzher mix is basically a travelling sponge. She actively seeks the puddles and mud and wet long grass! Yes a lot more work and a big bath towel required near the front door! Dogs keep me healthier, for sure. I know they make me more active.i love their spontaneity and they wear their heart on their sleeve like I do. They are super social often and I like meeting other dogs and their owners whilst out and about. Pet sitting can be quite isolating.
I sat two rabbits and hand fed them. They were very special. I am crazy about all animals. Both cats and dogs quickly know if the person is on their team or not
. I’d say I fake it with cats, at least to start with, but some have totally won me over. My favourite cats are affectionate, playful and generally independent. They leave the birds and mice alone! They get along with the dogs and visit me frequently for a cuddle. Dogs I feel most drawn to when out and about. I’d like to see more cats out with harnesses and leads. Some cats I’ve sat are clearly obese and not having the best of options.
Animals know their people. I hope dogs know how much they mean to me.. I have stopped owning cats and dogs but it’s rare that I want to bring back a cat from my multiple sits! So I guess I’m 60/40 dog focused!
Last year I spent half the year with an animal. A friend recently said why don’t you just get your own?
I travel a lot and love that flexibility. I so enjoy handing them back and taking a breather! Dogs never have a day when they stop loving you! I like to care for animals passionately but also need some recharging time now I’m nearly 70! So being able to select my time and commitment to the cats and dogs in my life works best for me now. I want the dogs in my care to get long walks and lots of attention on my watch.
I avoid pet shops and rescue centres!
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What a gorgeous photo!! Makes my heart sing 
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February seems to be a month for carnivals. In Spain these have coincided in much better weather, fortunately. Lots of examples of people dressing up and identifying with being animals.
The Chinese New Year has made many focus on the Panda.
My love of pets has never led me to dress up as one of them. If I could choose? A wolf dog would be my choice. What would your choice be ? A cat? A dog? A panda? Or some other animal?
Any one got a costume in the closet?
Some think cats are the cat’s whiskers and dogs are revolting? Well maybe they are right!
Dogs Trump Cats lol
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@Highfive Excellent post! LOL 
Although I don’t think our cats have any money.
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