Pet humanization

This trend involves the owners being at odds with the pet's status as property in wider society and can range from relying on them for emotional support to treating them like human family members.

[1][2] To the extent that the treatment involves providing for the pet beyond their means of appreciation, it is considered to be a form of anthropomorphism though the limits of this remain an open topic.

For example, some cats in ancient Egypt were considered sacred animals and were personified with the deity Bastet,[3] and provided with elaborate burials.

This included the development of specialized pet foods,[5] veterinary medicine, grooming services, and even luxury items.

[6] In the modern era, this trend reflects changing societal attitudes towards pets, where they are seen less as a property and more as valued members of the family.

[9] Humans have a natural inclination to form emotional bonds with other living beings, and pets often provide unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of belonging.

It encompasses a wide range of topics related to human-animal interactions, including the emotional, psychological, social, and biological aspects of these relationships.