Get

In Your Inbox

Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Are Cat Owners Smarter Than Dog People? Facts & FAQ

Dog owner versus Cat Owner

The fight between cat people and dog people has been going on for as long as we’ve kept both species as pets. Well, maybe calling it a “fight” isn’t right since it’s all in good fun, but many people feel very strongly about their preference for either cats or dogs.

One of the jokes that cat people sometimes tell is that dog people are less intelligent because they prefer a needier and less emotionally intelligent pet than cats. However, that may have led you to wonder if there’s any truth to the idea that cat people are more intelligent than dog people.

Well, science has an answer for you.

divider cat paws oct 2024

Are Cat People Smarter Than Dog People?

person smelling cat
Image Credit By: JensEnemark, Pixabay

Interestingly, a survey has shown that people who prefer cats score higher on intelligence tests than people who prefer dogs. They also have a stronger tendency for introversion and being more sensitive people. Surprisingly, cat people also tend to be more open-minded than dog people.

Perhaps not surprisingly, cat people show a tendency to be more non-conformist than dog people, and they also prefer convenience over following the rules. Obviously, these tendencies are mirrored in pet cats, who are more interested in doing things their way than in following the rules.

Who Was Involved in This Study?

This information is primarily based on a survey distributed to 600 college students, so there is a chance that a larger survey would show different results. Only surveying people who fall within such a small age group could have produced false results in this survey. It’s also important to note that college students are in a  specific life stage, which could also impact their responses to the survey and their preferences toward cats or dogs.

A survey of older or younger people could elicit different results in the study. It’s also important to note that it was a generalized survey of 600 college students, but it was not a carefully monitored scientific study with control groups or a sterile environment in which the participants could be questioned without outside influence.

What Does It Mean?

Man carrying a Dog
Image By: Pxhere

When it comes down to it, all people are different, regardless of what type of pet they prefer. We’re all individuals, and a generalized survey of 600 people from a limited group doesn’t reflect the results that might be seen in a proper scientific study. The results of this survey shouldn’t be taken as anything but fun information for the time being.

divider cat faces oct 2024

Conclusion

According to the survey performed by Carroll University in Wisconsin, cat people tend to be more intelligent than dog people and also more open-minded and non-conformist. The survey was performed on a limited group of people within the same age group and similar life stages, which could have impacted the results.

You may also be interested in:

Sources
 

Featured Image Credit: Left – Artem Beliaikin_Pexels; Right – StockSnap, Pixabay

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything cat

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Catster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

5 Best Cat Clippers for Matted Fur in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Matted fur can become a real issue in long-haired cat breeds like Persians, and although prevention is better than the cure, sometimes your...

How to Get a Feral Cat Into a Carrier: 14 Expert Tips & Tricks

Feral cats can be challenging animals to deal with. They’re skittish and easily spooked, making it difficult to get them into a carrier...

Why Does My Cat Sleep Pressed Up Against Me? 5 Possible Reasons

Cats are interesting creatures that seem to be mostly content by themselves. It’s not unusual to find your cat curled up on your...

Can Stress Cause a Heart Murmur in My Cat? Here’s What You Should Know

Normal, healthy cats can get temporary heart murmurs due to stress1. The adrenaline and cortisol released into their bloodstream in stressful situations cause...

More related

9 Best Cat Grooming Tools of 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

Whether you have a short- or long-haired cat, there’s no doubt that finding your cat’s hair everywhere—and we do mean everywhere—is not your...

What’s the Price of Cat Abscess Treatment? 2025 Costs & FAQ (Vet-Reviewed)

If you own a cat that loves to explore the outdoors and has a high chance of encountering wildlife or other pets, they...

How My Cats Help Me To Switch Off and Focus on The Now

Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and meet my five hilarious cats: Clutch, Cyril, Alex, Zelda, and...

Do Cats Grieve for Their Owners? A Helpful Guide

Although they may often seem aloof and indifferent, cats recognize the strong bond with their owners. Caring for and connecting with our pets...

Keep reading

Why Does My Cat Lick My Hand & Fingers So Much? 7 Vet-Reviewed Reasons

A dog licking your hand is normal, and it’s how they show affection. However, a cat is a different story. Felines aren’t widely known for their licking behavior toward humans, and it’s strange when they begin licking our hands and...

cat-licking-human-fingers

How to Make a Cat Less Skittish: 10 Vet Approved Tips & Tricks

While some cats love to meet new people and explore novel environments, others emphatically don’t. Particularly skittish cats will sometimes disappear entirely in the presence of visitors. While some cats simply prefer to be left alone, it’s often possible to...

bengal cat gives a high five paw to the owner

Why Do Cats Like Wet Hair? 10 Interesting Reasons

Cats do a lot of things that we consider a bit strange. How many cat owners have woken up in the middle of the night to find their cat staring at a spot on the wall and there’s nothing there?...

a woman holding a cat that's licking its mouth

Can Cats Eat Pansies? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Pansies are a staple for anyone who appreciates a splash of color in their garden. These colorful, diverse, easy-to-grow plants are certainly popular with those who love gardening, but what if your cat also develops a liking for them or...

Can Cats Eat Pansies

Can Cats Eat Donuts? Vet-Reviewed Nutritional Facts & FAQ

Many cats are clingy and are interested in everything their owner does, especially eating. So, if you are snacking on a delicious doughnut, your cat might be nosing around, acting like they want a bite, especially if it has a...

Can Cats Eat Donuts

Sheba Cat Food Review of 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Sheba Cat Food Review Summary Mars Inc. manufactures Sheba cat food, along with more than 40 other pet food brands. Sheba products are produced in the United States, except the Meaty Tender Stick Sheba cat treats, which are produced in...

Sheba Cat Food Review

Do Cats Revenge Poop? Vet-Reviewed Behavior Facts

Our cats communicate their interests, likes, and dislikes through a long list of methods. Some do a series of vocalizations, while others rely on body language translation. But what about when it comes to the litter box? If your cat...

hand picking up cat poop

10 Best Cat Litters for Allergies in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Just like humans, our cats can suffer from allergies, and it’s no fun for them at all! If you notice your cat sneezing, wheezing, and generally looking a bit miserable, it’s important to try and figure out if they’re having...

ginger cat inside red grey enclosed litter box