Nearly Half Of Gen Z See Pets As Their Literal Children, But Boomers Don’t Love Their Pets Any Less

A new generational divide has emerged — not over politics or parenting styles, but over pets.

A national survey of 2,000 employed cat and dog owners shows that while nearly all Americans agree pets make their lives better (98%), they differ significantly in how they relate to their animals. Conducted by Talker Research for Vetster, the poll reveals Gen Z is far more likely to view their pets as literal children (48%) compared to Gen X and baby boomers, who are more likely to see them as companions, support systems, or simply pets.

Older generations may be more reserved in their labeling, but that doesnt mean they love their pets any less. All generations reported theyd go to significant lengths to save a pets life, with Gen X willing to spend nearly $6,000 on average. Gen Z reported a similar figure, but with more willingness to find creative ways to come up with the money — from borrowing from friends and family (43%) and starting fundraisers (40%) to going as far as selling an organ (18%).

Spending habits also reflect generational differences. Gen Z pet owners spend about $216 per month on their animals, nearly twice what baby boomers spend ($134). Millennials are more likely to buy their pets new beds, clothes, and other lifestyle accessories, while all generations prioritize essentials like dry food and treats.

“It isnt just the younger generations who are looking to bring their pet into the human world: If given the opportunity, 58% of all respondents would love to bring their pet on vacation with them and 37% would like to bring them to work or their job or even the grocery store (35%),” said Vetster CEO Mark Bordo.

The survey also highlights the impact of pets on family dynamics. Forty-two percent of respondents dont have children, but many report that their parents act like doting grandparents to their pets — buying gifts, offering to babysit, and even greeting the pet first during visits.

The role of pets in the workplace is also changing. Among respondents who work remotely (20%), most said being home with their pet helps reduce stress (51%) and saves them around $215 per month in pet care. They would require a 50% pay bump on average to return to in-person work without their pets. Meanwhile, those who do work on-site — 61% of respondents — report stress relief and workplace bonding benefits when pets are allowed in the office.

“According to the results, more than half of respondents (53%) say that they have a pet-friendly workplace,” said Cerys Goodall, COO at Vetster. “This includes time off when their pet is sick (29%), pet insurance (24%) and telehealth access (17%). This shows that despite leaving many Americans to navigate work and pet parenthood on their own, they are more likely to have the resources to take care of their pets if their workplace is pet friendly.”

And for those looking to bond with colleagues? The answer might just be a shared love of dogs and cats — 73% of respondents said talking about pets is a great way to connect at work.