Peran Pet Attachment pada Pemilik Hewan Peliharaan Kucing di Kota Palembang

This study aims to explore the role of pet attachment among cat owners in Palembang, focusing on how emotional bonds are formed, interpreted, and influence psychological well-being. A qualitative approach was employed using purposive sampling to select two main participants who had high interaction intensity with their cats, along with additional informants from family members and neighbors. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation, then analyzed thematically with source triangulation to ensure validity. The findings reveal that pet attachment develops through daily interactions such as feeding, cleaning, playing, and monitoring the cat’s health. Cats are perceived not only as domestic animals but also as companions that provide psychological comfort, emotional support, and stress reduction. Factors shaping attachment include emotional needs, intensity of daily interaction, empathy toward the pet’s condition, long-term caregiving commitment, and the perception of cats as significant companions. The duration of ownership strengthens attachment quality, while the loss of a pet triggers profound grief comparable to losing a family member. Moreover, pet attachment influences family dynamics and social identity, portraying owners as caring and empathetic individuals. In conclusion, pet attachment among cat owners in Palembang is a complex psychological phenomenon involving emotional, social, and behavioral dimensions. The relationship between humans and cats extends beyond utilitarian functions, evolving into deep affective bonds that serve as coping mechanisms and psychosocial support in urban life. These findings enrich the literature on human-animal relationships and highlight the therapeutic and emotional value of pets in modern society.