We'd Rather Hear a Bark Than a Meow

One poll conducted by the Gay Men's Health Crisis in New York found that out of the 92% of gay men who owned pets, 60% owned a dog and 40% owned a cat.

Another poll conducted by the American Veterinary Medical Association found that 38.2% of gay men owned a dog, while 21.1% owned a cat.

A study conducted by the University of California, San Francisco found that pets provided companionship for gay men who may not have had traditional family structures.

The study surveyed 109 HIV-positive gay men and found that 72% of them owned pets. The study did not, however, provide data on whether gay men were more likely to own a dog or a cat.

Another study conducted by the University of Liverpool found that pets served as a way for gay men to connect with others. The study surveyed 30 gay men and found that pets provided a way for participants to meet new people and socialize with others. The study also did not provide data on whether gay men were more likely to own a dog or a cat.

Despite our blaring headline (!) there is no definitive answer to whether gay men are more likely to own a dog or a cat, although it must be said the polls and surveys suggest that gay men may be  more likely to own a dog.

However, it is important to note that these polls and surveys were conducted in limited geographical areas and with small sample sizes, so the results may not be representative of the wider gay community.

Differences Between Dog-Lovers & Cat Lovers

While there may be some stereotypes associated with dog or cat owners, these are largely based on cultural perceptions rather than empirical evidence.

That being said, there have been a few studies that have looked at personality traits associated with dog and cat owners in general.

For example, a study conducted by the University of Texas at Austin found that dog owners tended to be more extraverted, agreeable, and conscientious than cat owners. In contrast, cat owners were found to be more open-minded and neurotic than dog owners. However, these personality traits were not necessarily specific to gay men.

Another study conducted by the University of Southampton in the UK found that dog owners were more likely to be outgoing and rule-following, while cat owners were more likely to be introverted and unconventional. However, again, these personality traits were not specific to gay men.

It is important to note that these studies are not necessarily definitive and may not apply to everyone. It is also important to consider that personality traits are complex and multifaceted, and cannot be fully captured by a single preference for a dog or a cat.

Meow.