Almost half of South Africans own at least one pet, according to a survey done by WhyFive’s annual BrandMapp study.

There are various reasons people lean towards having a specific pet in their home, but what does your pet say about your personality?

Many homes prefer having a man’s best friend around as a guard or a cat to fight off unwanted insects or mice, often regarding their furry friends as part of the family, but let’s dive into what it says about your character.

Black cat. Picture: Canva

• Cats: Having a cat as a pet could mean you are more of an introvert, according to the Personality Psychology blog. It might also suggest you are independent, aloof and cautious. A cat’s soft purrs also comfort emotional or highly sensitive souls.

• Dogs: Dog owners are more known to be extroverted, enjoy sports and are mostly early birds due to the puppy phase. This may go even deeper when thinking about the size or breed of the dog: owners of smaller breeds are more likely to be fun, and sincere whereas larger breed owners are likely to be more loyal and sporty.

• Birds: Having a bird could show you’re a free-spirited person who enjoys being woken up to the sound of birdsong. Bird owners tend to be caring.

Cockatiel bird. Picture: Canva  

• Rabbits/bunnies: Having a bunny or a rabbit in your space might mean that you are creative, a tiny bit moody and possibly an introvert, it could also mean you’re scatter-brained and laid-back.

• Fish: Fish owners are more likely to be low in stress, calm, trusting and somewhat stable. They tend to be hard workers and can relate to the phase “just keep swimming”.

• Snake: Owners with snakes are more likely to be adrenaline junkies, with bold fashion choices and often see themselves as highly individualistic. They are also more open to various experience opportunities.

Hamster. Picture: Canva

• Hamster: Similar to cat owners, hamster owners often enjoy their own company, and they enjoy getting their chores or work done during the night, these people are also very intelligent.

• Horses: Since horse owners usually live further from the fast-moving city life, this could mean you prefer your personal space and are more disciplined.

Maybe you just wanted a pet for companionship or because it looked cute before getting it, however, pet owners do tend to gravitate toward pets that fit their lifestyle and personality – and sometimes even their looks.

OFM News/Casey-Lee Anthony cg