Brits Love Their Pets More Than Their Partners, New Research Reveals
For many people across the UK, pets are far more than just animals – they are family members, travel companions, emotional support systems, and loyal best friends. New research from pet food brand Fresh Pet has revealed just how deep the nation’s affection for pets really is, with many British pet owners admitting they prefer spending time with their cats and dogs over their partners.
The survey, carried out by OnePoll on behalf of Fresh Pet, questioned 2,000 cat and dog owners across the UK. The findings paint a fascinating picture of the strong emotional bond between pets and their humans, highlighting how important pets have become in everyday British life.
New Survey Shows Brits Are Obsessed With Their Pets
According to the research, more than a third of UK pet owners favour their pets over their partners. While this may sound surprising at first, it reflects a growing trend among pet lovers who see their furry friends as central members of the family.
More than half of those surveyed admitted they would rather spend time with their pets than with their significant other. The reasons given were both amusing and revealing. Many participants said their pets are always in a good mood, never complain, never argue, and provide unconditional companionship.
In a world where stress, busy work schedules, and digital overload are increasingly common, pets offer comfort, consistency, and emotional connection. Whether it is a dog greeting you enthusiastically at the door after work or a cat curling up beside you on the sofa, pets provide companionship that many owners value deeply.
Why People Feel Closer to Their Pets
The survey uncovered several reasons why pet owners feel such a strong emotional connection with their animals:
- Pets are seen as loyal and non-judgemental
- Dogs and cats provide emotional support during stressful times
- Pets help reduce loneliness and anxiety
- Many owners feel pets are better listeners than humans
- Animals provide affection without conditions or expectations
In fact, three in 10 adults surveyed said their pet was a better listener than their partner. Meanwhile, 45% said they appreciated the fact that their pets never judge or question them.
These findings align with wider studies around pet ownership and mental wellbeing. Research consistently shows that spending time with pets can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, improve mood, and even encourage healthier lifestyles through walking and outdoor activity.
Pets Win When It Comes to Affection
When it comes to cuddles and affection, pets came out on top once again.
The research found that:
- 29% of participants said their pets are better at snuggling than their partner
- 44% would rather cuddle up with their pet
- Nearly half admitted giving their pets more daily attention than their partner
- One third post more photos online with their pets than with their significant other
Social media has also played a huge role in the rise of pet culture in the UK. From Instagram-famous dogs to TikTok cats with millions of followers, pets are now a major part of people’s online identities.
Many pet owners document holidays, birthdays, walks, adventures, and even international travel with their pets, treating them much like any other family member.
The Most Surprising Result From the Survey
Perhaps the most eye-opening finding from the Fresh Pet study was that 14% of respondents said they would rather spend the rest of their life with their pet than with their partner.
While clearly tongue-in-cheek for some participants, the result highlights just how emotionally important pets have become within British households.
For many owners, pets provide stability, comfort, companionship, and unconditional love during every stage of life. Whether someone is single, married, working remotely, retired, or raising children, pets often become deeply woven into daily routines and family dynamics.
Fresh Pet Responds to the Research Findings
Speaking to The Independent, Senior Marketing Manager for Fresh Pet, Hannah Edwards, explained:
“Whilst some of the findings of this research are on the surface rather surprising, what they actually demonstrate is just how much us Brits love our pets and why they’re such an important part of our families.”
She added:
“It’s clear our beloved pets mean the world to us…it seems even more than our other half at times!”
The findings reflect the growing humanisation of pets across the UK. Today’s pet owners increasingly view dogs and cats as family members rather than simply household animals.
The Growing Trend of Pet-Centred Lifestyles
The UK pet industry has experienced enormous growth in recent years as more people invest in premium pet food, pet-friendly holidays, luxury accessories, dog training, pet insurance, and even international pet travel.
More businesses are adapting to accommodate pet owners, including:
- Pet-friendly hotels
- Dog-friendly pubs and restaurants
- Airlines offering pet travel services
- International pet relocation companies
- Luxury pet accommodation
- Pet wellness and spa services
As people become increasingly attached to their pets, they are also less willing to leave them behind when relocating or travelling abroad.
Travelling Abroad With Pets Is More Popular Than Ever
Whether relocating overseas, moving for work, taking an extended holiday, or emigrating permanently, more UK pet owners now want to bring their pets along safely and comfortably.
International pet travel can feel complicated, especially when dealing with:
- Airline pet travel rules
- Pet passports and travel documents
- Vaccination requirements
- DEFRA regulations
- Import permits
- Crate training and airline-approved travel crates
- Customs clearance
- Country-specific pet entry requirements
For many pet owners, the idea of leaving a beloved dog or cat behind simply is not an option.
Make International Pet Travel Stress-Free With PetAir UK
At PetAir UK, we understand that pets are family. Whether you are relocating internationally, moving abroad with a dog, emigrating with a cat, or planning overseas travel with your pet, our experienced team helps make the process smooth, safe, and stress-free.
We specialise in:
- International pet relocation
- Pet transport services
- Airline-approved pet travel arrangements
- Pet travel documentation and compliance
- Import and export guidance
- Worldwide pet shipping
- Door-to-door pet travel support
Our team works closely with pet owners to ensure every animal travels safely and comfortably from start to finish.
If your pet means the world to you – just like the survey suggests – why leave them behind?
Get a quick quote with us today. We can help your furry family member travel safely anywhere in the world.
