Pets provide a clue to finding the ‘purrfect’ partner

Want to know what really makes a woman purr? Take a closer look at her pet. Research published today by The Blue Cross reveals that women look for the same qualities in a pet as those that they seek in a human partner. 

The 2008 Blue Cross Pet Census shows that out of the 2,442 pet owners surveyed:

• 71% of women said that loyalty is one of the first qualities they look for in a pet while 90% of women also look for this trait in a partner
• 86% of women said that they look for an affectionate nature when choosing a pet, closely mirrored by 81% of women who also look for this in a loved one

Overall, pet owners prioritise loyalty, an affectionate nature and dependability in both a pet and a partner over other qualities, such as good looks, humour and confidence.

Steven Broomfield, who works at The Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria said: “These findings should give hope to people looking for someone to love this Christmas.  If mistletoe lacks the pulling power you need, jumping on your love interest’s lap and slobbering like an affectionate puppy might just do the trick!”

Other results indicate that younger pet owners tend to look skin deep when choosing a pet. Those aged 16-24 are twice as likely to opt for a pet based on its looks than those aged 55 and above, who are more likely to choose a pet for its affectionate qualities. 

Regional findings show that where we live also has a bearing on the type of pet we choose. Londoners are the most feline friendly, with 65% owning a cat, while pet owners in Yorkshire are the most likely to own a dog.

It seems our pets are firmly thought of as part of the family, as this year 76% of owners will give their pet a Christmas present. In fact our pets are twice as likely as our friends to receive a Christmas present from us, and a third of people surveyed said that they even sign their Christmas cards from their pet.

The Pet Census is an annual survey undertaken by The Blue Cross to understand the relationship that people have with their pets.