Do animals need a sense of purpose to feel fulfilled?

Cats
1

Humans need purpose to feel good, that’s a fact. So I’m sitting here petting my cat, who seems to be living its best life doing normal cat stuff. It got me wondering—do animals feel the same distress as humans when we don’t think our lives have a real purpose? What do you all think?

2

Interesting question! I think animals might not need ‘purpose’ in the same way we do. They seem more about instinct and enjoyment. My dog just loves chasing squirrels and playing fetch!

3

Zinn said:
Interesting question! I think animals might not need ‘purpose’ in the same way we do. They seem more about instinct and enjoyment. My dog just loves chasing squirrels and playing fetch!

Yeah, I agree! Dogs and cats seem to thrive on routine and play. They’re more in the moment, you know?

4

I wonder if some animals might feel unfulfilled if they don’t have stimulation or interaction. Like, a bored cat can get pretty destructive, right?

5

I think it varies by species. Some animals might have a more complex emotional life, while others just live day by day.

6

Tatum said:
I think it varies by species. Some animals might have a more complex emotional life, while others just live day by day.

Exactly! Like, dolphins seem to have social structures and emotional bonds, which might suggest a need for purpose.

7

That’s a good point! But at the end of the day, I think most pets are just happy to be loved and cared for. Purpose might be a stretch for them.

8

Kai said:
That’s a good point! But at the end of the day, I think most pets are just happy to be loved and cared for. Purpose might be a stretch for them.

Yeah, I mean, my pets seem content just hanging out with me. But I do think they enjoy some mental stimulation.

9

It’s a fascinating topic! I guess we can’t know for sure, but seeing our pets happy and healthy is probably the best indicator of how they feel.

10

Ashby said:
It’s a fascinating topic! I guess we can’t know for sure, but seeing our pets happy and healthy is probably the best indicator of how they feel.

Totally! As long as they’re loved and cared for, that’s what matters most.