
This feature adds a more realistic touch to the game, allowing players to have more control over their pet's actions and fostering a deeper bond between them. Pets can be trained to follow commands, or stop certain behaviors and your Sims will build strong and meaningful relationships with their pets in the process. In order to prevent this, players should take care of their pets by regularly feeding them, providing affection, and taking them to the vet if they are sick. Luckily, pets cannot die from anything but old age however, they can be taken away by animal control if they have been neglected for too long. In general, this is an effective and realistic approach to taking care of pets, allowing for more meaningful interactions between the Sims and their animals than ever before in the franchise.

Additionally, the player cannot view their pet's needs, so they must observe their pet's behavior to learn what needs to be done. To control their pet, players must resort to using mods. Players should be aware that, while cats and dogs are playable in The Sims 4, they cannot be directly controlled by the player. For players who are interested in owning a pet without having to go through the CAS screen, an adoption option is also available via phone in Live Mode. Pets take a slot in the household, similar to how Sims do. While foxes and raccoons are not playable, players can create similar-looking dogs or cats that resemble them if they wish to do so. Additionally, cats and dogs come with their own unique traits selection, allowing players to create the perfect pet for their needs.

Players can further personalize their companion animals, such as their nuzzle shape, ear shape, eyes, tails, and fur, as well as take advantage of the color wheel for more advanced fur options.

The Create-a-Pet system in the CAS screen makes it easy to add and customize pets with a variety of common dog and cat breeds available to pick from. Their lifespan, however, is shorter than normal Sims. Pets come in three life stages, namely puppy or kitten, adult and elder. With this pack, players can now make their furry friends, cats and dogs, a part of the Sims' households, allowing them to interact and become a vital part of the family.
