The study of 2,000 pet owners, commissioned by Freshpet, shows that more than half of pet owners would rather spend time with their animals than their partners.
Three in 10 people say their pet is a better listener than their partner, while 45 per cent like the fact they are never judged or questioned by their cat or dog.
Surprisingly, 29 per cent say their pet is better at snuggling, and 44 per cent actually prefer to cuddle them over their partner.
When faced with the decision to choose either their pet or partner, 14 per cent would rather spend the rest of their life with their pet.
Meanwhile, two in five people admit to giving their dog or cat far more attention on a daily basis than their partner, and 81 per cent of pet parents consider their dog a member of the family.
54 per cent of respondents admit their dog is truly their best friend, while 50 per cent consider their dog their child.
And 19 per cent of those surveyed admitted that they rather sleep next to their pet than their significant other.
Hannah Edwards, senior marketing manager for Freshpet told The Independent:
“Whilst some of the findings of this research are on the surface rather surprising, what they actually demonstrate is just how much us Brits love our pets and why they’re such an important part of our families.
“Whether that means using our four-legged friends as a sounding board for our problems, cuddling up with them on the sofa in a quiet, reflective moment, or simply spending quality time with our cats and dogs and enjoying their unconditional love.
“It’s clear our beloved pets mean the world to us...it seems even more than our other half at times!”
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