What animals make the best/worst pets?

Because picking the wrong pet is cute… until it chews through your couch, your cables, and your sanity.

The Pet Pick Struggle is Real

You ever get on social media, see someone’s fluffy dog in a sweater or their aloof cat side-eyeing the world from a velvet throne, and suddenly you think, I could be a pet parent too? Cue the Petco rabbit hole and next thing you know, you’re pricing iguana tanks at 2AM. Slow down, friend.

Adding a pet to your modern life can be amazing. It can also be chaotic AF if you don’t choose wisely. This isn’t about aesthetics or TikTok trends. This is about energy, vibe, maintenance, and what’s actually sustainable in your day-to-day life.

Let’s get brutally honest about what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to pets for the modern, grown-ass woman.

The MVPs: Pets That Actually Fit Your Life

1. Cats: The ‘I Got My Own’ Energy You Didn’t Know You Needed

Cats are the introverts of the animal kingdom. They don’t need your constant attention, which is perfect if you’re juggling a demanding job, a situationship, and bi-weekly therapy. Litter box? Handled. Self-grooming? Check. Solo vibes? Double check .

But know this: A bored cat will turn your sofa into a shredded Pinterest DIY fail. Invest in toys, a scratching post, or better yet—an old Amazon box. It’s peak entertainment.

2. Dogs: Emotional Support Wrapped in Shedding Fur

They’ll love you like you hung the moon, but they will also demand your full calendar. Dogs are ideal if you’re craving companionship, don’t mind routine, and are down to get your steps in.

Keep in mind: This is a relationship, not a fling. Dogs need time, space, training, and a chunk of your budget. And no, walking them once a day doesn’t cut it for most breeds.

Best For: People who work from home, folks with a backyard, or anyone who needs a reason to touch grass.

3. Fish: For the Vibe Curator Who Doesn’t Want Fur on Everything

Aesthetically pleasing and low maintenance—until your tank becomes a swamp because you skipped a water change. Fish are great for stress relief, ambiance, and people who like routines.

Warning: Don’t overfeed them (RIP Goldie). Also, “low maintenance” doesn’t mean no maintenance. You’ll still be testing pH levels like a chemistry major.

[Beginners Guide to the Aquarium Hobby Part 1: What You Need to Do BEFORE You Buy a Fish Tank!]

4. Birds: Your Talkative (and Sometimes Messy) Roommate

If you like energy, sass, and spontaneous concerts at 7AM—birds might be for you. They’re smart, social, and some even talk back (just like your ex, but cuter).

The Catch: They’re messy. Like, crumbs everywhere, feathers flying, squawk in the Zoom meeting kind of messy. Give them space, stimulation, and respect their need to scream occasionally.

5. Reptiles: Cool AF but Not for the Weak

Lizards, snakes, turtles—they’re minimal on affection but maximum on intrigue. Perfect for the low-key, offbeat vibe. They won’t cuddle, but they’ll silently judge from their heat lamp throne.

Reality Check: You’ll need heat lamps, UVB lights, and possibly live insects. If you’re not ready to drop cash on reptile real estate and a mini climate zone, pass.

[How to Set Up a Reptile Terrarium]

The Plot Twists: Pets That Seem Cute But Will Test Your Sanity

1. Hamsters: Nocturnal Chaos Gremlins

Cute? Yes. Cuddly? Rarely. Hamsters are night owls who will turn your bedroom into a rave with that squeaky wheel. They also have a tragic tendency to die on you way too soon.

2. Guinea Pigs: The Needy Cousin of the Rodent Family

They squeal for snacks, poop like it’s a full-time job, and need a roommate (yes, they get depressed alone). If you’re down to clean daily and love high-pitched drama—go for it.

But honestly: You’ll spend more time cleaning than cuddling.

3. Rabbits: Adorable Little Land Sharks

They look like plush toys, but let them loose and they’ll chew through cords like they’re getting paid for it. Rabbits need room to roam, mental stimulation, and bunny-proofing on Beyoncé levels.

[How to Bunny Proof | Tour Our 100% Bunny Proofed Apartment]

4. Ferrets: Agents of Chaos in Tube Form

Clever, playful, and determined to get into every drawer, bag, and hidden snack stash. They’re also known escape artists who’ll leave your home looking like a raccoon rave.

Also? They smell. Like… permanently.

5. Sugar Gliders: Expensive, High-Maintenance Night Owls

They’re adorable. They’re tiny. They’re also nocturnal, prone to depression, and require a diet that sounds like a MasterChef episode. Not for the casually curious.

Pet Match Quiz:

[What Pet Should I Get? Take Our Quiz and Find Out!]

Real Talk Before You Commit

Before you swipe right on a pet:

• Be honest about your time, space, budget, and tolerance for mess.
• Research the hell out of that breed or species.
• Adopt if you can—there are a million amazing animals in shelters that need homes.
• Check your lease, landlord, allergies, and your bank account before you fall in love with something fluffy or scaled.

Your Pet, Your Vibe

The best pet is the one that fits your life—not your Instagram. Whether you want a sidekick who hikes or a silent observer of your late-night Hulu marathons, there’s an animal out there that fits your energy.

But don’t get caught up in the “cute” or “trendy.” Get real about what you can handle. You deserve a pet that complements your lifestyle—not one that turns it into a circus.