Many of us have pondered what might truly be going on inside the minds of our pets. Now, a new survey has unveiled the top questions animal lovers wish they could ask their furry companions.
Survey reveals widespread curiosity
A poll of 2,000 cat and dog owners discovered that 54 per cent often wish they could converse with their four-legged friends to uncover their real thoughts and feelings. Many pet lovers wonder 'Do you like your life?' (43 per cent) and 'What is actually happening in that head?' (34 per cent).
Approximately one in ten feline owners have speculated about what their moggy might be plotting, while others would like to know if their pets are judging them (15 per cent) or if they experience jealousy (12 per cent).
Interestingly, 18 per cent are keen to discover if their dog might be autistic, and 36 per cent wondered whether their cat can read their mind.
Petgevity launches neurodiversity podcast
This comes as pet insurer Petgevity, which commissioned the research, has launched its debut podcast this week, focusing on neurodiversity in pets. Doctor Who actor James Hoyles and his canine companion, Trevor the Iggy, have teamed up with the insurer to answer pet owners' most bizarre questions about their furry friends.
The actor and content creator said: 'Having a pet means you never stop learning, especially when you realise just how complex they can be. No pet is the same – every animal is different and will have different needs, and it is completely normal to have questions you never expected to ask.'
Deep bonds between owners and pets
The research also revealed that 88 per cent are confident they truly understand their pet, with 41 per cent claiming their pet understands them better than any other human. Additionally, 41 per cent often find themselves chatting to their pet as though they are human, according to research by OnePoll.
Almost half (45 per cent) have asked their pet for advice on important life decisions, such as a new job or a breakup, even though they knew they wouldn't actually receive an answer.
Many have also imagined their pet having human qualities, such as a favourite type of food (43 per cent), a distinct sense of humour (32 per cent), and taking pride in their appearance (21 per cent).
But some would like to delve further, with burning questions focused on the pet-owner relationship, such as 'What's your favourite thing we do together?' (34 per cent) and 'Do you wish I did anything differently?' (33 per cent).
Practical advice sought
When it comes to practical advice on their precious pets, 43 per cent would like easier access to vets or experts, with 54 per cent turning to podcasts to help answer tricky questions.
Kerry Willecome, pet insurance expert at Petgevity, added: 'They aren't just pets but friends and members of our family. We develop deep meaningful connections with our pets which is why it's always worth seeking trusted advice when something doesn't seem quite right. And the fact owners always have questions about their furry friends just goes to show how much they want to understand their pets and make them happy.'
Top 5 questions owners have for their pets
- Are you happy?
- Do you like your life?
- Do you understand every word I say?
- What's your favourite thing we do together?
- What is actually happening in that head?
