If you’ve ever felt like you can truly understand an animal’s emotions, you’re not imagining it—there’s a reason why you feel that deep, unspoken connection.
People like you, who feel a strong empathy for animals, often have certain traits that set them apart.
It’s not just about loving pets or feeling sorry for an injured bird—it’s about tuning into their energy, understanding their needs, and sensing their moods in a way that others might miss.
In this article, I’ll dive into 7 key traits that people with strong animal empathy tend to share.
If you’ve found yourself going the extra mile to protect or care for animals, chances are, you embody many of these qualities.
1) Sensitivity to non-verbal communication
Here’s the first thing about people who feel strong empathy for animals: they are often keenly sensitive to non-verbal communication.
See, animals can’t use words to express their feelings. Instead, they rely on a variety of subtle cues – a wagging tail, a purr, even a certain look in their eyes.
And guess what?
Those of us with a deep empathy for animals are usually pretty good at picking up on these signals.
It’s like we’re tuned in to an unspoken language, one that allows us to understand and connect with animals on a profound level.
As you might imagine, this can make us seem a little different to others. But in reality, it’s just one of the many traits that makes our bond with animals so special.
2) Strong emotional responsiveness
Another thing about us animal empaths, we have a strong emotional responsiveness.
Let me share a little personal story to illustrate this.
Once, I was walking my dog in the park when we came across a stray cat. She was skinny, dirty, and clearly scared.
My heart just broke for her. I remember feeling an immediate surge of sadness and concern.
But it wasn’t just a fleeting feeling. I couldn’t just walk away and forget about her.
So, I decided to take action. I took her home, fed her, cleaned her up, and eventually found her a loving forever home.
That’s the thing about us. We don’t just feel for animals; we feel with them.
Their happiness is our happiness; their pain is our pain. And this emotional responsiveness often drives us to take positive action.
3) Deep appreciation for the simplicity of animal relationships
Here’s a truth you might not hear often: Relationships with animals can be far less complicated than those with humans.
Think about it. There’s no pretense, no hidden agendas, no emotional games.
It’s pure, uncomplicated affection. And for us who feel a deep empathy for animals, this simplicity is incredibly appealing.
Take my relationship with my dog, Max.
He doesn’t care about the size of my house, the car I drive, or whether I’m having a bad hair day. His love is unconditional. All he asks for in return is my companionship and a pat on the head.
In a world that can often be complex and confusing, this simple bond with our pets provides a sense of comfort and tranquility. It’s like a safe haven that helps us navigate through life’s storms.
4) High levels of patience
Another trait you’ll often find in people with strong empathy for animals is an extraordinary level of patience.
Animals, like humans, have their own personalities, quirks, and ways of doing things. Sometimes they can be stubborn, other times they can be overly playful, and yes, sometimes they can even be a bit naughty.
Dealing with all these can require an immense amount of patience. Whether it’s training a puppy to sit or helping a rescue dog overcome its fears, it’s not something that happens overnight.
But you know what?
We’re okay with that. We understand that forming a bond with an animal, just like with humans, takes time and effort.
And we’re always willing to put in that time, because to us, the reward – a deep, meaningful connection – is absolutely worth it.
5) Tendency to anthropomorphize
Here’s something you might not know: People who feel strong empathy for animals often have a tendency to anthropomorphize, or attribute human characteristics to animals.
It’s not uncommon for us to interpret an animal’s actions in terms of human emotions. We might say that the dog looks ‘guilty’ for chewing up the sofa or that the cat is ‘proud’ of the mouse she caught.
While animals may not experience guilt or pride in the same way we do, this tendency to interpret their actions through a human lens shows just how deeply we connect with them on an emotional level.
We begin to understand their actions not just from a biological or instinctive standpoint, but from a place of empathy, wanting to connect with them as we would with any other sentient being.
6) A heart for the underdog
If there’s one thing that people who feel a strong empathy for animals have in common, it’s this: We have a heart for the underdog.
We’re the ones who are drawn to the animals others might overlook:
- The older dogs at the shelter
- The cats with special needs
- The birds with broken wings
We see past their challenges and into their hearts.
Just like my friend Amy, who adopted an elderly dog with arthritis. He was overlooked by many potential adopters, but not by her. She saw a loving companion who just needed a little extra care.
She didn’t see his age or his condition as a burden, but as part of who he was. Today, they share an amazing bond and their story is a testament to the power of empathy in creating beautiful friendships.
And that’s what it’s all about: Seeing beyond the surface and recognizing the value of every creature, no matter their circumstances. Because every life is worth loving.
7) Genuine respect for all forms of life
At the heart of it all, people with strong empathy for animals have a genuine respect for all forms of life.
We understand and appreciate the intrinsic value of every creature, big or small, furry or scaly. We don’t view animals as lesser beings, but as creatures with their own rights and feelings.
It’s a respect that goes beyond dealing kindly with pets or wildlife. It extends to every interaction we have with the natural world. From choosing cruelty-free products to advocating for animal rights, it’s a guiding principle that shapes our actions.
Because in the end, it’s not just about loving animals. It’s about respecting their place in this world and doing our part to ensure they are treated with the dignity and kindness they deserve.
Final thoughts
If you’ve recognized yourself in these traits, then it’s clear: your empathy for animals is a powerful part of who you are.
But remember, it’s not just a characteristic. It’s a gift.
This deep connection you have with animals goes beyond typical relationships. It’s a reflection of your sensitivity, patience, and genuine respect for all forms of life.
Yes, it might set you apart. But in the best way possible. It allows you to understand and connect with creatures in a manner few others can.
So take pride in this empathy. Nurture it. Let it guide your actions and decisions. After all, our world could definitely use more kindness, understanding and respect.
