Pets are frequently seen as an extension of the family, and some people spare no expenses on providing the very best for their companions. However, according to recent research, toys and treats are not the only way to a pet’s heart. This random double opt-in survey commissioned by Nulo Pet Food and conducted in collaboration with OnePoll involving 2,000 general population American dog and cat owners revealed that pet owners believe that physical touch is the primary love language shared with their furry companions.
83% of the respondents believe that petting is the best way to express love to their pets, another 62% suggest hugging, and 55% think that giving kisses are important ways to share affection with their pets. 27% feel that quality time is essential with their companions, and to achieve more of this 62% permit allowing their pets to sleep on the bed with them, and 40% take their pets with them on outings whenever it is possible.
Part of love is making sure that their pet is healthy, and it is very important as well, 53 % of the pet parents are committed to offering the best high-quality meals that they can afford, 47% selected the food focused on complete health and nutrition, and 32% try to incorporate a diet with variety for their companions. 69% of the respondents report that they would compromise their own preferences to make sure that they can provide the best quality diet for their pets. 87% are satisfied with their pet’s diet and have kept it consistent for three years on average, but only 48% believe that they personally could only manage the monotony of identical meals every day for up to 3 months.
95% of the respondents are fully confident that their companions recognize the love that they are receiving, 62% feel that they share a mutual love language with their furry cuddle buddy, and the respondents suggest that their affection is reciprocated by their pet’s gestures. 65% believe that their pet following them around like a shadow is a sign of reciprocating affection, 58% think that snuggling and cuddling in bed is reciprocation, 48% think that receiving kisses is part of the love language, and 47% of the respondents feel that playful interaction with their pets or toys is also reciprocating affection.
This bond with our companions is reminiscent of deep friendships or familial ties to many people. 47% of the respondents perceive their pets as being their best friends, and 42% report feeling the same way about their pets as they do people. 38% of the respondents equate their love for their pets as to what they would have for a child, and 37% think that their fur baby views them as sort of a parental figure.
“With nearly 70% of respondents prioritizing their pet’s dietary needs, it’s evident how pivotal pets are in their owners’ lives,” says spokesperson Dr. Heather Acuff, Ph.D., director of research and development at Nulo Pet Food in a statement. “Pet parents aren’t just understanding their pets’ love languages; they’re going the extra mile to offer top-tier care and nutrition, ensuring their pets lead healthy, joyous lives.”
Apparently, most people find it hard to say no to their pets, this survey also revealed that pets don’t need to beg to be fed for long, on average it takes only 9.5 minutes of pleading before their pets get fed. 50% of the respondents selected their current pet diet because they believe that their pet enjoys it, 35% have confidence in the quality of ingredients, and 29% felt it was affordable. 59% of the respondents feel that their pet is on the right diet because of its regular/consistent bowel movements, 50% think that their pet gets better quality sleep on a healthy diet, 50% think a soft smooth coat indicates proper nutrition, and 49% think that good daily energy levels indicate that their pet is on the right diet.
“Supplying pets with a top-notch diet is a profound expression of love and care. As pets can’t vocalize their food preferences, it’s the responsibility of pet parents to research and ensure the meals we provide meet their dietary needs, maintain high quality, and offer palatable variety. Without a doubt, the food we choose significantly impacts our pets’ quality of life,” Dr. Acuff adds.
