Abstract

The phenomenon of ‘pet parenting’—where pets are treated as family members or even as surrogate children—is witnessing a significant rise in Indian urban households. This shift is emblematic of changing social values family structures economic capacities and emotional needs in modern urban life. Unlike traditional pet ownership that emphasized utility or companionship pet parenting reflects a deeper emotional social and symbolic investment in animals often reshaping household dynamics consumption patterns and even identity. This paper investigates the societal implications of the rising pet parenting culture in Indian cities drawing upon qualitative interviews media narratives market data and sociological theory. It explores how this trend reflects broader transformations such as declining fertility rates increasing singlehood changing gender roles and the commercialization of affection. The study finds that pet parenting is more than a lifestyle trend it is a cultural phenomenon shape