Humans are not the only species that keep pets. Many other animals have been observed forming close relationships with other animals of the same or different species, and some of these relationships can be considered to be pets.

Do Other Animals Have Pets?

Pets in the Animal Kingdom

Here are some examples of animals that have been known to keep pets:

1. Chimpanzees: Chimpanzees have been observed keeping pets, such as small monkeys, birds, and even insects. They often show affection for their pets and engage in playful interactions with them.

2. Elephants: Elephants have been known to adopt orphaned elephants or animals of other species, such as buffalo calves. They provide care and protection to their adopted pets and form strong bonds with them.

3. Otters: Otters have been observed keeping pet sea urchins. They use the urchins to break open shellfish and other hard-to-open food items. The otters protect their pet urchins from predators and even carry them around with them.

4. Birds: Some bird species, such as parrots, have been known to keep pet objects. They may collect and arrange objects, such as stones, shells, or pieces of wood, in their nests or cages. These objects may serve as a source of entertainment or comfort for the birds.

Benefits of Pets for Animals

The reasons why animals keep pets are varied, but some potential benefits include:

1. Companionship: Pets can provide companionship and social interaction for animals that would otherwise be solitary. This can be especially important for animals that live in captivity or in environments where they have limited social contact with other members of their species.

2. Play and Entertainment: Pets can provide opportunities for play and entertainment. Animals may engage in playful interactions with their pets, such as chasing, wrestling, or playing fetch. This can provide mental and physical stimulation for the animals and help to reduce boredom.

3. Protection: Some animals may keep pets as a form of protection. For example, chimpanzees have been observed using pet monkeys as lookouts to warn them of approaching predators.

Conclusion

While the concept of pets is often associated with humans, it is evident that many other animals also form close relationships with other animals and keep pets of their own. These relationships can provide companionship, entertainment, protection, and other benefits to the animals involved.