"Who" with animals

[crazyaboutenglish]

Hi,

Is it ok to use "who" when you are talking about an animal, like a pet?

I have a little cat who's very shy.

Thanks

[kiwi man]

NOT A TEACHER

I highly doubt it. I think "that" is more appropriate.

[riquecohen]

Hi,

Is it ok to use "who" when you are talking about an animal, like a pet?

I have a little cat who's very shy.

Thanks

In the example you presented, I would say that it's appropriate. I think it would all depend on the person's relationship to the particular animal.

[5jj]

People often use 'he', 'she' and 'who' of their pets.

[Tdol]

And not just their own pets- I readily use who to refer to animals that can be pets or are other people's pets: crazyaboutenglish has a little cat who's shy.

[crazyaboutenglish]

Thanks all!