Cats or dogs? It’s not a grey area...

WE asked our readers whether they prefer cats or dogs – and which they believe are the smartest…

DOGS

“I prefer dogs, more affectionate than cats and very loyal too.” – Jacqueline Burton, Ashington

“Dogs are definitely more intelligent. I remember sitting in the lounge and the dog quickly moving away, seconds later the Christmas tree fell!” – Robert Young, Carrickfergus

“I prefer dogs. Cats are clever but more independent, whereas a dog normally likes to please its owners.” – Irene Allison, Airdrie

“Definitely prefer dogs. We’ve had two wonderful dogs and they always knew when we were happy, sad or unwell, and behaved accordingly.” – Judi Martin, Aberdeenshire

“I am definitely a dog person. I like their loyalty and their unquestioning, uncritical love, which is such a bonus when things go wrong. Dogs have owners but cats have staff!” – Liz Kelly, Glasgow

CATS

“Dogs are smart but cats are smarter! Unlike dogs they find out how to get the cupboard door open for treats. I’ve had dogs before but none have thought of trying to open a cupboard door!” – Joseph Clancy, Glasgow

“Cats are obviously more intelligent. You can teach a dog tricks but a cat will only learn if it chooses to.” – Susan Ireland, Kendal

“Cats are very intelligent, easy maintenance with no need for walkies!” – Heather Peterson, East Lothian

“I appreciate the advantages of a cat. Being housebound, our cat checks in on me every now again, coming up on the arm of the chair to let me know she is watching over me.” – Lorna Smith, North Yorkshire

“I had dogs and cats when I was young, and dogs and cats when I got married. Now I have two rescue cats and they are great. I am sure they both wear watches, as they are on time for everything… food, cuddles and sleep. – Joan Fordyce, Forfar

“We much prefer cats and have had four in our 56 years of married life. Cats can be equally intelligent in their little ways.” – John Grant, Oxford

“Unfortunately I prefer cats. I say unfortunately as in the past we have been slaves to our cats. Dogs are honest as the day is long. But a few doggie biccies and a walk and they are anybody’s!” — Irene Thomson, Perth