Pets can bring a lot of joy to your Sims' lives, but if you don't have the Cats & Dogs expansion pack, you might think you're out of luck. However, there are a few ways to get pets in Sims 4 without expansion cheats. Here are three methods you can try:

How to Get Pets in Sims 4 Without Expansion: Cheat-Free Methods

Method 1: Adopt from the Shelter

1. Build a pet adoption agency. You can find the adoption agency building in the Build/Buy catalog under the "Community Lots" category.

2. Once you have built an adoption agency, you can adopt pets from there. To do this, click on the front door of the adoption agency and select the "Adopt a Pet" option.

3. You will then be able to choose from a variety of pets, including dogs, cats, birds, and small animals. Once you have selected a pet, you can name it and it will move into your household.

Method 2: Use the Create-a-Sim Tool

1. Open the Create-a-Sim tool. You can do this by clicking on the "Create A Sim" button on the main menu.

2. Once you are in the Create-a-Sim tool, click on the "Pets" button in the bottom left corner of the screen.

3. You will then be able to choose from a variety of pets, including dogs, cats, birds, and small animals. Once you have selected a pet, you can customize its appearance and name. When you are finished, click on the "Save to Household" button to add the pet to your household.

Method 3: Use a Mod

1. Download a pet mod. There are a number of mods available online that allow you to add pets to your Sims 4 game without the Cats & Dogs expansion pack.

2. Install the mod. The instructions for installing a mod will vary depending on the mod that you have downloaded. However, most mods can be installed by simply copying the mod files to the Sims 4 Mods folder.

3. Once you have installed the mod, you will be able to add pets to your Sims 4 game. The instructions for adding pets to your game will vary depending on the mod that you have installed. However, most mods will allow you to add pets by clicking on the "Create a Sim" button on the main menu and then selecting the "Pets" button.