- Both involve someone exercising power over a weaker being. In the case of animal abuse, this is usually a human over an animal. In the case of child abuse, this is usually an adult over a child.
- Both can involve physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
- Both can have serious and lasting effects on the victim. In the case of animal abuse, this can include physical injuries, psychological trauma, and even death. In the case of child abuse, this can include physical injuries, emotional trauma, developmental problems, and an increased risk of victimization in adulthood.
- Both are illegal. In most jurisdictions, animal abuse and child abuse are considered crimes and can result in criminal penalties.