Episode description

It’s a debate as old as time: when it comes to a household pet, which four legged furball makes the best companion? On one side, we have the independent, low maintenance feline, she who is quiet and clean. The cat isn’t needy; she gives her humans personal space and can walk herself, thank you very much. Unlike the too-eager dog, winning a cat’s affection takes time, patience, and trust. It’s a hard-fought battle which makes its victory that much more special. On the other side, we have man’s best friend. The ultimate companion, the dog is happy, affectionate and attentive. He protects the house and defends his humans. And, perhaps most importantly, he’s always up for a snuggle. Research shows dogs are better for your health: dog owners are less lonely, have fewer mental health issues, and get more exercise. When searching for a pet companion, dog enthusiasts claim, canines beat out cats in every category that counts. 

Arguing for the motion is Aaron Hancox. He’s a filmmaker who has produced three documentaries about cats including the award-winning film Catwalk: Tales From the Cat Show Circuit

Arguing against the motion is Alexandra Horowitz. She’s a professor of canine cognition at Barnard College and author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know

The host of the Munk Debates is Rudyard Griffiths - @rudyardg.  

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Senior Producer: Ricki Gurwitz

Editor: Kieran Lynch