Scientific survey of pet ownership has revealed to discover that cat owners are brainier than dog lovers.

A University of Bristol survey, published in the Veterinary Journal, discovered that people with cats are more likely to have university degrees than those with dogs.

The data cites that homes with degree-holders reported were 1.36 times more likely to have a cat than other households. However, the same homes were less likely to have a dog than households where no-one went to university.

In addition, the study also reported that the combined cat and dog population of Britain is more than 20.8 million - 50 per cent higher than previously estimated. Excluding strays, there are reportedly 10.3 million cats and 10.5 million dogs in the country.

"Cats require less time per day than a dog, so they are more popular with educated people who work late and have long commutes," said Cats Protection Lecturer in feline epidemiology Dr Jane Murray.

The study also discovered that cat owners were also more likely to be older and female.

Researchers at the university's Department of Clinical Veterinary Science hope to repeat the study 2011, to analyze and keep a track of any changes in population numbers and ownership trends.