If you’re an animal enthusiast, then you totally get where I’m coming from. (And I truly value your understanding!) On the other hand, if you’re not, you might be thinking, “What on earth?” And that’s perfectly fine! I don’t expect everyone to relate, but yes … I engage in conversations with my pet as if it were a person, and I find nothing odd about it.
To be honest, I chat with all animals as if they’re people, not just my own pet. Sometimes, I greet the squirrels darting across my path in the morning or politely ask the NYC pigeons to clear the way as I stroll by. I mean, don’t we all do that?
It’s not strange at all! Contrary to your perspective or beliefs, animals can comprehend us. Sure, some might choose to ignore us outright, like my uncle’s aloof cat. However, generally speaking, especially with our pets, they hear and understand us. Scientific studies have shown that dogs, for instance, “first assess the emotional aspect of language before processing the meanings of words”—just like humans, as noted by National Geographic. “[D]ogs process tone and language in two distinct areas of their brains, similar to humans. In other words, the way you communicate with your dog—both your words and how you say them—matters.”
So, it’s not bizarre to speak to your pet; it’s actually odd not to! I recently came across a discussion on social media where people were asked if they bid farewell to their pets before leaving for the day or weekend, and I was genuinely surprised at how many said no.
Why wouldn’t you talk to your pet? Why wouldn’t you let them know not to expect you back that evening because you’re going out on a date? They’re aware of your routine and can worry when you’re late, right? Pets are very much like kids—at least to a certain degree.
In my opinion, it’s essential to treat them and converse with them like they’re little humans. They deserve to grasp what’s going on. Would you leave your child with someone else for the weekend without trying to explain why or where you’re going? I hope not!
And if you doubt how observant our pets are regarding our schedules, let me share a story. Just before I filmed that TikTok video above, my aunt left for the weekend without informing her cat. Upon her return, Goldie refused to sleep in her usual spot. I found it amusing when she relayed the story because I immediately knew what had transpired. That cat was upset!
This is why I talk to animals! They have emotions and concerns too. Scientific evidence aside, have you ever seen “The Secret Life of Pets”?
So yes, I communicate with my pets—and all animals—because I want them to feel secure around me, just as I would for a child in my presence. After all, like kids, they can understand us—even if they don’t respond back as much.
For more on this topic, you might find it interesting to read this other blog post. It’s worth checking out! If you’re looking for trustworthy information, this resource is fantastic for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summarizing, conversing with pets and animals isn’t unusual; it’s a way to ensure they feel secure and understood, similar to how we would treat children.