It turns out that the bond with a pet can run deeper than many admit, and a recent MetLife survey proves it in an unexpected way. Of 1,000 U.S. owners surveyed, nearly a third said they would date a humanized AI image of their own animal, a trend sparked by viral TikTok tools like ChatGPT. Here’s what stood out.
Millennials topped the list at 34%, Gen X and Boomers followed close behind with 33% each, and Gen Z trailed at 24%. The pet trend drew a stronger response from older groups who often see their animals as steady emotional anchors in daily life, especially after recent social shifts.
This viral idea came from playful filters and AI art generators. Yet, it revealed how people think about their animals. Many saw humanized traits in their pets, imagining them as compatible partners.
40% admitted that if their pet became human, they would be a walking red flag. Neediness, jealousy, and unpredictable moods came up most often.
Among those who responded, 45% of Gen X and Boomer cat owners said they would consider dating their pet’s AI form, while only 29% of dog owners agreed.
77% said their pet offers better emotional support than any former partner. This shows how deeply woven animals are in their owners’ sense of stability. These connections often guide major life choices, showing that pets are far more than background companions.
Zach / Unsplash / According to the survey, 88% of people would walk away from their dream apartment if it didn’t allow animals.
However, 66% of respondents said they prioritize their pet’s medical needs over their own wants. Vet visits and routine care take precedence. Gen Z led this mindset at 75%, reflecting how younger adults are shaping a more responsible, pet‑focused culture.
Experts link this shift to lockdowns when pets became constant companions. Long stretches at home turned animals into trusted confidants. The reliance on them during isolation forged bonds that now influence unexpected decisions, like considering a romanticized AI image.
Beyond AI trends, the survey revealed how much pets shape human relationships. Many owners reported declining dates or breaking ties with people who ignored boundaries with their animals. This shift shows that pets hold an active role in shaping romantic decisions.
Younger respondents, especially Gen Z, valued independence and were less inclined to consider an AI version of their pet. Older owners leaned into comfort and familiarity. This contrast paints a picture of how cultural moments and life stages shape bonds with animals.
The viral nature of these AI experiments grew through short clips showing playful edits of pets as humans. Social media turned private bonds into shared conversations. Many participants admitted that the idea first struck them after seeing these videos spread rapidly.