Why do Some Ponies have Inanimate Objects as Pets?

[EpicEnergy 23,218]

Despite the fact that many ponies would consider this weird, I have a feeling more ponies out there have inanimate objects as pets since this isn't Pie family exclusive. Can you at least explain, or give theories, as to why Maud and Mudbriar have inanimate objects as pets? Maybe go a little further and explain why any pony would have such an inanimate object as a pet.

I think this is some sort of defect that is a result of an obsession in an area, like rocks or trees. A pony obsesses over such an area soo much that rock and sticks, or whatever, come to life in their minds. That's the only explanation I have.

[Jeric 46,851]

Maud touches on this in a roundabout way last season when she mentions her love of rocks. Take that piece, and then read this

https://daily.jstor.org/personification-is-your-friend-the-amazing-life-of-letters/

That link will take you to the next level. That is if you want a possible in-universe example of the concept. The real explaination is that it's a quirky amusing trait to give Maud. Her boyfriend has the same quirk to telegraph to the audience that they are ment for each other. 

[They call me Loyalty 1,948]

People can give symbolic meaning to objects. This may or not be used in similar fashion on the show.

[ManaMinori 4,145]

less hassle to take care of. No money spent on pet food, no cleanup required. Why complain?

[Ganondorf8 11,316]

Because as Jeric showcased, it's due to those characters having a quirky trait. Sure, we may not understand it but to those who have such pets, it means everything in the world to them.

[EpicEnergy 23,218]

3 hours ago, Jeric said:

Maud touches on this in a roundabout way last season when she mentions her love of rocks. Take that piece, and then read this

https://daily.jstor.org/personification-is-your-friend-the-amazing-life-of-letters/

That link will take you to the next level. That is if you want a possible in-universe example of the concept. The real explaination is that it's a quirky amusing trait to give Maud. Her boyfriend has the same quirk to telegraph to the audience that they are ment for each other. 

Thanks for informing me! To think the answer to this question was right under my nose, because I've just recently pulled out a list of figurative languages and their definitions that I previously memorized with the purpose of refreshing my memory, and this list had personifications on it. I wasn't aware, however, that personifications are applicable to inanimate objects. You learn something new everyday!

Edited September 3, 2018 by EpicEnergy