The national ASPCA recently conducted a study of adoptions to find out what factors are important to people when choosing a pet. Lisa Chelenza has more about their findings in this edition of Pet Pointers.

In 2011, the ASPCA surveyed approximately 1,500 potential adopters to find out what people are looking for when adding a new pet to their family, hoping to use the information to better match people with adoptable animals. The results confirmed some previously noted findings and offered new clues into the mind of humans seeking animal companions.

For those adopting kittens, age was the most important factor with behavior and appearance coming in second and third by more than ten percentage points.

Friendly adult cats that were affectionate were more likely to be adopted than those that were shy, and looks mattered less for adult cats. Most cat adopters said it was the animal’s personality that they fell in love with.

Respondents adopting adult dogs placed behavior slightly above other factors such as appearance or age. It has been noted in previous studies that adult dogs that come to the front of kennels to greet people are far more likely to be adopted. But when it comes to puppies, it was all about cute, with puppies getting a pass on behavior issues due to lack of training.

Above all else, humans are seeking companionship and those surveyed often reported they look for a sign from the animal, whether it’s a look or a kiss - a definite connection was very important when choosing an adopted pet.

When choosing a new pet to become part of your family, try and resist the pull of cute and look a little deeper. Select a pet based on your lifestyle and their personality.

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