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Written by Paul
Dr Paul Manktelow is a vet who’s worked for almost 20 years on the front line in some of the UK’s busiest veterinary hospitals. As Chief Vet in the Charity Sector, he leads a team of vets and nurses that treat thousands of pets every year. Paul also appears regularly in the media as a TV and radio presenter, writer, public speaker and podcast producer.
We love our pets deeply. They comfort us, make us laugh, and bring joy to everyday life. But is it possible we’re loving them too much, and in the wrong way?
Over-humanisation, or anthropomorphism, is on the rise. More of us than ever see our pets as “fur babies”, treating them as if they were children rather than animals. While this shift has positives, it can also lead to unintended welfare problems.
The Rise of the Pet Parent Era
Surveys show that the majority of pet owners now consider their pets part of the family. This has brought many positives: pets are more integrated into social life, veterinary care has advanced, and owners are more emotionally invested in their wellbeing.
But treating pets as if they are human can lead to:
– Behavioural issues such as separation anxiety, aggression, or poor boundaries.
– Inappropriate care, like feeding unsuitable diets or dressing animals unnecessarily.
– Emotional pressure that influences difficult welfare decisions.
Behavioural Issues Are on the Rise
Anthropomorphism can be stressful for animals. Dogs, for example, thrive on structure and consistency. When owners blur the lines between pet and child, dogs may become anxious or develop unwanted behaviours.
Cats, too, can struggle. As naturally solitary animals, they may find constant affection or human schedules overwhelming.
Balancing Love with Boundaries
Loving your pet doesn’t mean treating them like a child. Boundaries, routines, and species-appropriate care help pets feel secure and understood.
Ask yourself:
– Am I meeting their needs as an animal, not as a surrogate child?
– Does my pet have enough enrichment and structure?
– Are my decisions based on their welfare rather than my own emotions?
This is a key theme in the latest episode of The Consult Room podcast, “Do We Love Our Pets Too Much? The Hidden Cost of the Pet Parent Era”.
The goal isn’t to love your pet less, it’s to love them in a way that supports their long-term welfare.
