13 Pet Trends from the Past That Make No Sense Today
Pet trends have come a long way; some old ones are simply bizarre by today's standards. Whether dressing up pets or keeping wild animals at home, people treat animals as toys or trophies rather than companions. These trends highlight how far we've come in understanding and caring for our furry (and non-furry) companions.
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
This article covers 13 unusual and surprising pet trends from the past that would not fly today. People used to treat their pets in ways that are now confusing, from unusual pet choices to bizarre fashion and care routines. These outdated practices demonstrate how much the times—and our relationships with animals have changed.
1. Pet Monkeys as Household Companions
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In the past, it wasn’t unusual for families to keep monkeys as pets. People were drawn to their human-like features and playful behavior but didn’t realize how hard they are to care for. Today, owning a monkey is illegal or heavily restricted in most places due to safety and ethical concerns.
2. Dyeing Pets Bright Colors
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Some pet owners used to dye their dogs or cats in bright, unnatural colors for fun or fashion. The trend was seen as cute back then, but today it’s often criticized for being stressful and unnecessary. Animal welfare groups now warn against using chemicals on pets’ fur.
3. Pet Rocks Were a Thing
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In the 1970s, people actually bought rocks and treated them like pets. They came in boxes with straw bedding and even had care manuals. It was a quirky trend, but it made no logical sense because they were just… rocks.
4. Keeping Squirrels as Pets
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Squirrels were once marketed as friendly household pets, especially in the early 1900s. People believed they were trainable and cute enough to live indoors. Today, we understand that wild animals like squirrels don’t thrive in captivity.
5. Dressing Pets in Full Human Outfits
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Long before Instagram, people were already putting pets in hats, coats, and even shoes. It was often more about showing off than practicality or comfort. Now we know that many animals feel stressed or restricted in full outfits.
6. Turtles as Cheap Children’s Pets
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Tiny turtles were once sold in pet stores and even as carnival prizes. They were popular with kids, but many died quickly due to poor care and unsafe living conditions. Today, selling baby turtles is banned in several countries due to health risks and cruelty concerns.
7. Feeding Pets Human Food—All the Time
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In the past, pets often ate table scraps or leftovers, no matter how unhealthy. There was little awareness about balanced pet diets or toxic foods. Now, we know that certain human foods can be harmful or even deadly to pets.
8. Pet Taxidermy for Home Décor
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Some people preserved their deceased pets through taxidermy to keep them “forever.” While they believed it honored the animal, others found it creepy or disrespectful. Today, most pet owners choose burial, cremation, or keepsakes that feel more compassionate.
9. Birds on Leashes in Public
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It used to be trendy to walk pet birds like parrots on tiny leashes or harnesses. Owners saw it as a way to bond and publicly show off their pets. Now, we understand that it can be stressful and risky for the bird.
10. Exotic Big Cats as Status Symbols
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Rich people once kept lions, tigers, or leopards as private pets to show off wealth and power. These animals were kept in homes or private zoos with little care for their needs. Modern laws now ban or restrict exotic pet ownership for safety and ethical reasons.
11. Goldfish in Small Bowls with No Filters
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Tiny glass bowls were a common home for goldfish, often with no filtration or space. People believed they were low-maintenance pets, but many died young from poor water quality. Now, fish lovers know goldfish need large tanks and proper care to thrive.
12. Giving Pets as Surprise Gifts
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It used to be common to give puppies, kittens, or rabbits as surprise presents for holidays. While the gesture seemed sweet, many recipients weren’t ready for the responsibility. Today, animal shelters advise against giving pets as gifts without planning.
13. Pet Contests Judged by How “Human” They Acted
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Pet shows once rewarded animals for tricks or behaviors that mimicked humans, like walking upright or wearing clothes. The goal was entertainment, not the animal’s well-being. Now, pet contests focus more on health, breed standards, or agility, not on how much a pet can act like a person.