Anthropomorphism and Its Adverse Effects on the Distress and Welfare of Companion Animals

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Anthropomorphism refers to the practices in which humans attribute human emotional and behavioral features to non-human animals and objects. For some people, this represents a means to reinforce the human-animal connection, display empathy towards their companion animals, and show care and interest in their well-being. However, some anthropomorphic behaviors towards pets are often driven by temporary fashions that may have a detrimental effect on animal welfare, both physically (e.g., dermatological, orthopedic, and nutritional diseases) and emotionally (e.g., fear, anxiety, aggressiveness). Not less importantly, in some cases, they may pose a risk for public health (e.g., the transmission of zoonotic diseases). This article focuses on the adverse physiological and behavioral effects that may derive from anthropomorphism in order to understand the magnitude of the repercussions on the welfare of companion animals. ABSTRACT: Anthropomorphic practices are increasing worldwide. Anthropomorphism is defined as the tendency to attribute human forms, behaviors, and emotions to non-human animals or objects. Anthropomorphism is particularly relevant for companion animals. Some anthropomorphic practices can be beneficial to them, whilst others can be very detrimental. Some anthropomorphic behaviors compromise the welfare and physiology of animals by interfering with thermoregulation, while others can produce dehydration due to the loss of body water, a condition that brings undesirable consequences such as high compensatory blood pressure and heat shock, even death, depending on the intensity and frequency of an animal’s exposure to these stressors. Malnutrition is a factor observed due to consumption of junk food or an imbalance in caloric proportions. This can cause obesity in pets that may have repercussions on their locomotor apparatus. Intense human–animal interaction can also lead to the establishment of attachment that impacts the mental state and behavior of animals, making them prone to develop aggression, fear, or anxiety separation syndrome. Another aspect is applying cosmetics to pets, though scientific studies have not yet determined whether cosmetic products such as coat dyes, nail polish, and lotions are beneficial or harmful for the animals, or to what extent. The cohabitation of animals in people’s homes can also constitute a public health risk due to infectious and zoonotic diseases. In this context, this paper aims to analyze the adverse effects of anthropomorphism on the welfare of companion animals from several angles—physiological, sanitary, and behavioral—based on a discussion of current scientific findings.