New Survey Reveals That Pets Are Better Cuddlers Than Partners
Who ranks as the best cuddlers—our partners or our pets? You guessed it: more than half of pet parents (53%) say their pet is a better cuddler than their partner. That’s from a recent survey by FurPetVo of hundreds of pet parents just like you. The findings show pets are much more than pets—from expert cuddlers and closest confidants to biggest cheerleaders, family members, best friends, and even soulmates.
The results come as no surprise to many of us. In a world full of change and uncertainty, our pets serve as emotional anchors—centering and grounding us during both joyful and difficult times. It makes perfect sense that 89% of respondents agree their pets understand their emotions, feeling a connection that’s sometimes even stronger than those they share with other people.
The survey highlights the remarkable depth and complexity of the pet–pet parent bond. According to respondents:
- 84% consider their pets family
- 50% view their pet as their child
- 42% say their pet is their best friend
- 14% consider their pet their soulmate
We depend on them for unwavering support—and they’re there for us through it all. While experts may still debate whether pets understand our actual words, that doesn’t stop us from sharing deep, meaningful communication with them:
- 86% talk to their pet daily
- 96% say their pet is there for them through good and bad times
- 89% believe their pet understands their emotions
Given How Much Pets Mean to Pet Parents, There’s Little They Wouldn’t Do To Make Them Happy
Pet parents go above and beyond to show love and care—including making thoughtful, sometimes surprising, life choices:
- 60% regularly share their bed with one or more pets
- 55% of those who sleep with their pet would sacrifice a good night’s sleep for their pet’s comfort
- 42% have included—or would include—their pet in their will
- 95% agree their pet loves them unconditionally
- 60% of pet parents with children say their pet is better behaved and a better listener than their kids
- 50% say their pets make them laugh more often than their partner
They’re the Inspiration Behind Made-up Songs, Take Over Our Camera Rolls, and Have Their Own Social Accounts
Pets inspire creativity and devotion in everyday life:
- 33% make up songs about their pet
- 38% have created a social media account for their pet
- 35% admit their pet takes up more than half of their camera roll
- 21% of married pet parents have included their pet in their wedding ceremony
They’re Our Little ‘Mini Me’—73% Say They Share Personality Traits With Their Pets
It’s not just affection—it’s resonance. Most pet parents see reflections of themselves in their pets:
- 66% share loyalty
- 65% share friendliness
- 64% share affectionateness
- 53% share playfulness
People Pay Tribute to Their Pet Through Their Homes and Wardrobe
Love for pets shows up in personal style and living spaces:
- 42% dress their pets in clothing, and 10% own shirts proudly featuring their furry pal
- 57% own memorabilia honoring their pet—most commonly framed photos, coffee mugs, paintings, and blankets
We’re obsessed with pets—just like you. Pets aren’t just pets. They’re more. They’re our travel buddies, ride-or-dies, therapists, and soulmates. On National Pet Day—and every day—celebrate every unique bond, from the silliest to the most profound. Share your own story with #FurPetVoMoreThanAPet on TikTok.
