Animals are an entertaining part of anySimsexperience. Who wouldn’t want a little companion on their digital adventures? While there have always been animals in the game, The Sims 2: Pets expanded the options and added more ways to interact with them.
When cats and dogs were added to the Sims world, fans were overjoyed to see the different types of furry friends they could adopt. However, some more unconventional creatures can share your home in The Sims 2 as well. Here is every pet type in The Sims 2, ranked.

10Ant Farm
Sims 2: Freetime
While ants are not the most exciting pet in the world, the Ant Farm included in Sims 2: Freetime expansion can provide entertainment and education for your sims.
Found in the Miscellaneous area of theHobbiessection, you can buy The Formidable Formicarium for §185. Your sim can watch the farm while they gain points in the Science skill, so it’s a great hobby for aspiring scientists.
9Butterflies/Fireflies
Sims 2: Seasons
A small step above the Ant Farm, Sims 2: Seasons allows you to collect butterflies and fireflies in a jar.
Once the tiny creatures are caught, your sim can view them in the jar or release them. If left in the jar, they will eventually die, which may disappoint your sim and defeat the purpose of having a pet. But, the option is there.
8Spiders/Beetles
In a similar hobby to firefly catching, the Freetimeexpansiongives you the ability to collect bugs. There are three different types of bugs your sim can catch; beetles, butterflies, and spiders.
Once you’ve caught a bug, you may add it to your sims collection. This collection box can be viewed in your inventory. While it’s not the same as cuddling a cat, your sim will have a new hobby to enjoy.
7Skunks
Sims 2: Pets
Did you ever think about petting a skunk? In the Sims 2: Pets, that dream can become a reality. The Stinky Skunk is an NPC who will randomly appear on your sim’s lawn. You can either chase, pet, or watch the skunk.
While skunks may tolerate a pet or two, they have their limits. Be careful if you pet the little guy too much because he will spray you if he gets overwhelmed.
You can’t actually adopt the skunk, but you can earn its trust with a pet or two.
6Penguins
While they technically aren’t considered traditional pets, your sim can pet a penguin in The Sims 2: Seasons. They usually appear on your lot when there is a lot of snow on the ground.
If you want to attract penguins, you should leave fish on the ground. If you’ve gained its trust, you’re able to gently reach out and pat the penguin, like you would a dog or a cat. It may even wander in and out of your house, like it lives there.
You can’t adopt a penguin, but you can enjoy its company and give it pets.
5Fish
Sims 2: Pets and Sims 2: Apartment Life
Aquariums were the first pet you could get in the original Sims game, and they’re available in the sequel, too. The Sims 2: Pets, added another tank option for your scaly friends.
You have to clean the tank and feed your fish regularly or they will die, adding some more responsibility to your sim’s life. The Sims 2: Apartment life added yet another aquarium, though it was more decorative than anything. Not the most exciting pet, but it is an option that boosts the environment for your sims.
4Womrats
Womrats are the sim version of guinea pigs. While the guinea pig was first added in the Sims: Livin Large game, these little creatures make an appearance in Sims 2: Pets as well.
you’re able to purchase a womrat by buying the correct cage to house them. You can name it and choose the fur color as well. They can be watched or played with, making this a little more interactive than the previouspetson the list.
3Parrots
Similar to Womrats, parrots are a part of the Sims 2: Pets expansion pack. You can customize the name and color, and like other small pets, you need to remember to feed them and clean their cage.
Unlike other pets, your parrot can learn to talk. Talking to the bird increases your sims Charisma score. You can also walk around with your pet on your shoulder, showing off your feathery friend.
2Cats
Cats were a highly-anticipated addition to The Sims 2. In the Pets expansion pack, you can choose from a long list of cat breeds to adopt. These feline companions are largely self-sufficient, using the litter box and eating any food left out, but they still need care and attention.
You need to train them as a kitten so they grow up with your desired behavior. You can stroke, pick up, and play with your cat, impacting your sim’s relationship with the animal.
In Apartment Life, witches can have a Spectral Cat as their Familiar.
1Dogs
Dogs are the best pet a sim can have in The Sims 2. Also, included in the Pets expansion, you can choose from dozens of breeds in two sizes, large and small.
You can rub your dog’s belly, feed them treats, and play fetch. They can be housebroken as well, though they require lots of training if they’re a puppy. Whether you take in a stray or adopt over the phone, they’re a great pet to have in Sims 2.
You can also create a dog or cat for your family in Create A Sim.