Gen Z is taking over as the top pet-owning generation, choosing furry friends over big investments like homes or cars. With many hesitant about having kids, pets offer the perfect mix of love and responsibility—sometimes in ways that boomers find pretty funny.
Here’s a list of 10 Ways Gen Z’s Pet Obsession which often Confuses Boomers
Choosing quirky and unconventional names
Older generations stick to classic pet names, but Gen Z gets creative. From joke names like “Bill” to pop culture picks like “Swiftie” and “Barbie,” their choices are anything but traditional.
Building a complete closet for their pet
Gen Z sees pets as their kids, dressing them up for special occasions and even curating their own wardrobes—just like boomer parents do for their children.
Cooking specially for their furry friends
Gen Z pet owners are known for cooking homemade meals, from fresh food diets to birthday cakes. Experts warn that DIY pet meals can lack essential nutrients found in store-bought options.
Prioritizing pet mental wellness with medication
Gen Z sees pets as emotional supporters and prioritizes their mental health. They’re more likely than other generations to invest in anxiety meds, vet care, and even pet therapy—breaking stigmas for their furry friends, just as they do for themselves.
Taking their pets everywhere they go
Gen Z pet owners prefer bringing their pets along rather than boarding them, whether on flights, road trips, or daily errands. This shift is reshaping the hospitality industry, with more hotels and cafés embracing pet-friendly policies.
Snoozing side by side with their pets
Gen Z pet owners, especially dog and cat lovers, often share their beds with their furry friends. A study shows they’re the most likely generation to do so, a habit that older generations—who prioritize partners or cleanliness—find amusing.
Creating social media profiles for their pets
Nearly 40% of pet owners, mostly Gen Z, have made social media accounts for their pets, according to a 2022 Statista survey. From pet influencers to funny TikTok voiceovers, these pages are a hit online—but a source of amusement for boomers.
Giving their pets a proper birthday celebration
Over half of Gen Z pet owners celebrate their pets’ birthdays with gifts, parties, or cakes, according to a Newsweek survey. With fewer major expenses, they’re more likely than older generations to go all out on these celebrations.
Obtaining service animal status for easier access
Gen Z trains their pets as service animals for easier travel, public access, and peace of mind—skipping pet fees and boarding costs along the way.
Setting up a special room just for their pets
Gen Z pet owners are taking things up a notch by giving their pets their bedrooms—sometimes even full houses. While boomers may laugh, this trend is booming among pet influencers and online-savvy owners.