The cat's solitary nature is at the root of this, says Ms Heath. Cats can enjoy social interaction, but don't have a need for it, as dogs do. This makes them look selfish. Dogs' desire to be close to us comes at a price. In America alone, they attack 4.5 million people a year - killing at least 20.
Young children are often the target.
Dogs learn to attack rather than retreat. Though the ancient Egyptians revered the cat, it has suffered at the hands of humans ever since. Even today, some view the black cat as an omen of misfortune. Even the English language is stacked against the moggy. But, to be fair, we can't hate cats that much.