Is there any other synonym words I can use like "pet"?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
Common synonyms of "pet" in this context are "stroke", "rub", and "pat". However, when describing the action of stroking an animals fur, "pet" is the most common verb to use. You can still use verbs like "stroke", "rub", and "pat" in this context, but they are less common. Ex: She stroked the cat's fur. Ex: The dog likes it when you rub his belly.