From fur babies to pet rocks: Gen Z's new take on companionship

Research shows that spending time with animals can really help ease stress, calm our anxieties, and make us feel less lonely.

By PAUL NG

27 Jan 2025 11:00am

Beyond companionship, pets offer a sense of responsibility and purpose. Photo: Canva

GEN Z cares deeply about their furry friends. Social media is teeming with images and videos of cute animals which shows how they are very much attached to them, which isn’t merely a phase. It does, however, give rise to an interesting question — what exactly is a pet in the 21st century?

Be it the traditional loveable furry critters to inanimate objects, Gen Z has found a way to redefine companionship in ways never seen before.

THE POWER OF A PET'S LOVE

For Gen Z, "fur baby" isn't just a cute nickname; it's a reflection of how deeply they value animals. These aren't just pets to them — they're family, plain and simple.

They open their hearts and homes to all kinds of creatures, from the familiar wagging tails and purring cats, to more unusual companions like reptiles and rescue animals of every shape and size.

Beyond companionship, pets offer a sense of responsibility and purpose. Caring for another living being teaches valuable life skills like patience, empathy, and time management.

PETS AS A SOURCE OF COMFORT

Maybe the best part about having a pet is how much they lift our spirits. It's not just a feeling; research actually shows that spending time with animals can really help ease stress, calm our anxieties, and make us feel less lonely.

While the world becomes more digital, pets have come to offer something extremely valuable, real, organic interaction. Unlike the bond formed with online acquaintances, the relationship with pets is deeply rooted in reality and comes with abundant love.

The joy of being hugged, chased around, or simply huddled together in silence brings relief from the world and all its digital noise.

However, things have taken an interesting turn of late.

THE RISE OF THE PET ROCK

Having a pet rock is the latest craze sweeping the globe. It sounds simple, even a little silly, but this trend has really taken off, with tons of social media buzz and even a whole market popping up around rocks and their accessories.

So, why rocks? In a world that often feels hectic and stressful, pet rocks offer something different: easy, low-key company. You don't have to feed them, walk them, or worry about them making a mess; they're just there.

That simplicity is a big part of what people love about them — they bring a sense of calm.

This trend has been especially popular in South Korea and China, partly thanks to the Minions movie. Young people are adopting these quirky little companions, giving them googly eyes, hats, names, and even backstories.

Online shops are selling all sorts of things for pet rocks, from tiny houses and outfits to even ‘skincare’ products (yes, really!).

FEELING CONNECTED TO OUR PETS

But it's not just a passing fad. The pet rock phenomenon speaks to something deeper: a need for connection and emotional support.

Experts say that these rocks can actually provide comfort and a sense of stability, especially for people who want companionship without the pressure of caring for a living creature.

Plus, they're a fun way to get creative and express yourself, letting you project your own personality onto your little rocky buddy.

What this all means is that Gen Z is changing how we think about pets. They care about connection, responsibility, and feeling good, and they're finding that in all sorts of ways, from furry animals to simple stones.

The pet rock trend might seem a bit out there, but it shows how resourceful this generation is and how they can find comfort and connection in the most unexpected places.

Curious to learn what type of pet is perfect for you? Take our fun quiz to find out which pet best suits your personality and lifestyle!