The Sims 4 community never stops pushing the limits of creativity and functionality, and one of the standout advancements in gameplay customization is the Sims 4 playable pets mod. Since the Cats & Dogs expansion was released, Sims players have adored the addition of pets, but many felt limited by their inability to control their furry companions directly. Thanks to talented mod creators, this is no longer an issue. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Sims 4 playable pets mod, including its features, installation process, alternative solutions, compatibility, and additional tips for the ultimate pet-simulation experience.

What is the Sims 4 Playable Pets Mod?

The Sims 4 playable pets mod is a series of mods developed by creative modders that allow players to take direct control of their pets in the game. Traditionally, pet interactions are indirect, with actions auto-piloted by the game’s AI, but with these mods, you gain complete control over your furry friends. Whether you’re managing your Sim cat’s hunger level or sending your Sim dog to play with toys, these mods give you the freedom to shape your pet’s life more intimately. Let’s explore the two most prominent mods available for this purpose.

Playable Pets Mod by Andrew and Orange Mitten

The Playable Pets Mod by Andrew and Orange Mitten was the first mod to introduce this revolutionary concept to the Sims 4 community. Here’s what it offers:

  • Allows players to manage pets’ basic needs, such as hunger, bladder, energy, fun, and hygiene.
  • Provides control over pets’ behaviors, enabling actions like eating, playing, or going outside.
  • Adds a layer of depth to the game by giving users more control over their pet gameplay dynamics.

However, this mod hasn’t been updated to align with the latest Sims 4 patches, leading to certain bugs and compatibility issues. While it was groundbreaking in its time, players today are encouraged to try more recent alternatives for a smoother experience.

Selectable Pets Always Mod by charitycodes

The Selectable Pets Always Mod is a newer and more reliable option for controlling pets. Released by charitycodes, this mod solves many of the compatibility and performance problems associated with older playable pet mods. Key features include:

  • Selectable pets: This mod makes pets in your household directly selectable without requiring repetitive cheat commands.
  • Needs visibility: Players can manage pets’ needs, such as hunger, bladder, and energy, much like controlling a human Sim.
  • Teleportation support: The mod prevents pets from getting stuck in rooms or areas by allowing them to teleport out of locked zones.
  • Automatic activation: It ensures the “pets.toggle_selectable_pets” functionality is always active, eliminating the need to re-enter cheat commands whenever you load the game or switch lots.

For most players seeking a stable and intuitive modding solution, Selectable Pets Always has become the go-to choice.

How to Install the Sims 4 Playable Pets Mod

Installing mods in The Sims 4 is extremely user-friendly. Follow these step-by-step instructions to seamlessly integrate the playable pets mod of your choice into your gameplay:

Step 1 – Download the Mod

Visit secure platforms like Mod The Sims to download the desired mod. In the case of the Selectable Pets Always mod, you’ll find a direct download link on its Mod The Sims page.

Step 2 – Extract the Files

Once downloaded, the mod file will typically be in a compressed format, such as .zip or .rar. Use software such as WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract its contents.

Step 3 – Move the Mod to the Mods Folder

After extraction, place the .package file and any accompanying .ts4script files into your Sims 4 Mods folder. The standard file path is:

Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > Mods

Step 4 – Enable Script Mods

Launch The Sims 4 and navigate to Game Options → Other. Ensure that Script Mods Allowed and Enable Custom Content are checked. Restart the game to apply the changes.

Step 5 – Confirm Installation

Once the game is relaunched, your mod should function as intended. Test it by selecting one of your pets to see if new control options appear.

How-To Guide – Controlling Pets Without Mods

If you prefer not to use custom content, there’s still a way to control your pets directly using cheats. Follow this guide to take advantage of the hidden feature:

Step 1 – Install Twisted Mexi’s All Cheats Mod

Twisted Mexi offers an incredible cheats mod that unlocks access to almost every hidden feature of The Sims 4. Download and install the mod by placing its contents in your Mods folder as instructed above.

Step 2 – Enable Cheats

Once in-game, open the cheat console by pressing Ctrl + Shift + C. Type testingcheats on and hit Enter.

Step 3 – Activate Pet Controls

Type the cheat command pets.toggle_selectable_pets into the console and press Enter. You should now be able to select and control pets in your household. Note that you need to re-enter this cheat every time you load into the game or visit a new lot.

Why Choose the Sims 4 Playable Pets Mod?

Still unsure if you should add the Sims 4 playable pets mod to your game? Here are some reasons why it’s a must-try addition:

  • Enhanced immersion: Add a new layer of depth and connection to your gameplay by directly managing your pets’ lives.
  • Problem-solving: Easily teleport stuck pets or address needs that might otherwise go unnoticed by the game’s AI.
  • Unlimited creativity: With full control, you can create more engaging stories and scenarios featuring your furry friends.

Best Practices for Using Mods Safely

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable modding experience, always follow these best practices:

  • Backup your saves: Before installing new mods, make a backup copy of your game saves to avoid losing progress if something goes wrong.
  • Keep mods updated: Regularly check for updates to ensure compatibility with the latest game patches.
  • Use reputable sources: Download mods only from trusted platforms like Mod The Sims or Sims 4 Studio to avoid malware or corrupted files.
  • Monitor game performance: Disable or remove mods if you notice signs of glitches or lag.

FAQ – Sims 4 Playable Pets Mod

What is the Sims 4 playable pets mod?

The Sims 4 playable pets mod is a collection of modifications that allows players to control pets directly, managing their needs and behaviors like human Sims.

Where can I download the Selectable Pets Always mod?

You can download the Selectable Pets Always mod from Mod The Sims. Its page contains detailed installation instructions and additional mod information.

Is the Sims 4 playable pets mod free?

Yes, both the Playable Pets Mod and Selectable Pets Always mod are free to download and use, though creators often accept donations to support their work.

Are there any risks to using mods in Sims 4?

While mods enhance gameplay, they can sometimes cause glitches or become incompatible after a game update. Always download mods from trusted sources and keep your backup saves intact.

Does EA approve of mods like these?

EA has a mod-friendly policy encouraging custom content, though they do not provide direct support for mods.

Can I control pets on PS4 or Xbox One?

No, mods are only available for PC and Mac players. Console versions do not support custom content or modding functionality.

What’s the difference between the Playable Pets Mod and Selectable Pets Always?

The Playable Pets Mod is an older version with more bugs, while Selectable Pets Always is a modernized, stable rewrite that offers enhanced functionality and compatibility.

How do I uninstall a playable pets mod?

To uninstall, simply delete the mod file from your Mods folder. Restart your game, and it will revert to its original state.

Why isn’t the mod working properly?

Ensure script mods are enabled in-game settings, and verify you’ve placed the correct files in the Mods folder. Also, check if the mod is compatible with your current game version.

Is there a way to control pets without mods?

Yes, you can use the cheat command pets.toggle_selectable_pets by enabling testing cheats in the game console, though this requires manual activation each session.

Conclusion

The Sims 4 playable pets mod unlocks an entirely new way to interact with and care for your beloved virtual animals. Whether you’re using the Selectable Pets Always mod or exploring cheats to control your pets, these tools bring a richer, more immersive experience to your game. Explore these mods today to make your Sims’ pets truly feel like part of the household!