Asked by Hailey

Ms.Speedi has 40 pets, all birds and cats. One day she figured out that there was a total of 56 legs. How many of each animal does she have?



I did the equation x+y=40, 4x+2y=56. I did everything correctly and got (-12,52) but you can't have -12 cats. Is there a different answer? Please help!!!
Answered by Reiny
your second equation:
4x + 2y = 56
2x + y = 28

2x+y = 28
x+y = 40
subtract:
x = -12

you are correct, the question is bogus!
Answered by Steve
each pet has at least two legs.

No way can 40 pets have only 56 legs!