Final answer:
Higher order animals are more complex and have specialized organs and behaviors compared to lower order animals. They often exhibit extensive care for their young and possess advanced sensory and nervous systems. Cats and dogs are classified together in the order Carnivora due to shared characteristics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between higher order animals and lower order animals can be understood in terms of their complexity, body plan, behavior, and reproductive structures. Higher order animals tend to have more complex body plans and behaviors, often including specialized organs and organ systems, and they may have more elaborate care for their young. In contrast, lower order animals, like sponges and corals, exhibit simpler body plans and may not have specialized organs. For example, higher order animals such as mammals possess complex nervous systems allowing for advanced sensory processing and behavioral responses, while lower order animals, such as frogs, might not provide care for their offspring due to the high volume of eggs they produce.
When considering the animal classification system, cats and dogs are grouped together at the level of the order Carnivora. This is because they share common anatomical and physiological traits consistent with carnivorous mammals, despite being different species and subspecies.