I'm sure a few doting cat owners will disagree, but a new study says cats don't get the same affection and attention from their owners that dogs do -- and because of that aren't as likely to get medical care as dogs.

A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found U.S. pet owners generally have stronger bonds with their dogs than their cats and therefore aren't as attentive to their cat's needs.

As a result, cats are substantially underserved medically, the researchers say, which presents risks to their health and public health.

The study says dogs are far more likely than cats to receive vaccinations, regular physical exams and preventive dental care. In households with dogs and cats, a third of the cats did not visit a veterinarian annually, compared with only 13 percent of dogs.

Humans, the study says, spend about 45 hours a week with their dogs, only about 32 hours a week with their cats.

Humans also view cats as "more able to take care of themselves," than dogs.

Asked if they would spend any amount necessary to keep their pet alive, 52 percent of dog owners said yes, compared to 48 percent of cat owners.

The AVMA is made up of 76,000 member veterinarians and describes its mission as advancing the science and art of animal, human and public health.

(Photos: Hercules, the fat cat, AP; Sammy, the Shih-Tzu, Chris McGrath, Getty Images)