Men do not raise cats, women do not raise dogs, this saying has been circulated in China for a long time. People seem to have some fixed ideas about the gender choices of keeping pets. So, why does this saying exist? Let's explore it together.

Reason One: Personality Differences

There are certain personality differences between cats and dogs that are related to gender characteristics. Men are often compared to "dogs," while women are compared to "cats." Dogs are naturally lively and loyal, easily forming a tacit understanding with their male owners. Cats appear more independent and delicate, resonating more easily with female owners.

Reason Two: Gender Role Changes

Some related anecdotes exist in ancient stories supporting this saying. It is said that at the end of the Han Dynasty, there was a newlywed couple. Because the husband went out on business, to prevent his wife from feeling lonely, he specially brought back a male dog. This arrangement could both protect the family and relieve the wife's loneliness. Similar stories also mention that men raising cats would be considered "disrupting nature," while women raising dogs would "change their nature," possibly due to concerns over gender roles.

Reason Three: Pet Influencing Owner’s Personality

Keeping pets can have a certain impact on the owner's personality. The lively and cheerful nature of dogs may make the owner more outgoing and cheerful, which might be difficult for some girls to accept. The independent personality of cats may allow female owners to feel mutual reliance when alone. Such personality differences also become factors for people choosing pets.

Comprehensive Viewpoint

The reasons mentioned above are only partial interpretations of the saying "men do not raise cats, women do not raise dogs." In reality, people's reasons for choosing pets are diverse and not absolutely related to gender. Everyone has their own tastes and preferences, and raising pets should be based more on personal interest and responsibility. Whether men raise cats or women raise dogs, as long as they can properly take care of them and establish good interactive relationships, they can enjoy the happiness and companionship pets bring.

Conclusion

Although "men do not raise cats, women do not raise dogs" is a saying, the reasons behind it are not absolute. Gender has some correlation with pet selection, but personal interest and responsibility are more important. Whether male or female, as long as they can properly care for pets and build good relationships, they can choose pets they like and enjoy the wonderful time with them.