Best Alternatives to Paw-Paw in 2025
Paw-Paw is a delightful free macOS desktop pet that keeps you company while you work, typing along with you and rewarding your activity with XP, seasonal unlocks, and collectible items. But if you're looking for a different vibe, more features, or cross-platform support, there are several excellent alternatives. Here are the best options to consider.
Shimeji
Shimeji is a classic open-source desktop pet for Windows and Mac that lets you customize characters and behaviors. It's highly extensible with a large community, and while it lacks Paw-Paw's typing-based XP system, it offers more freedom in pet appearance and movement.
Desktop Mate
Desktop Mate is a popular free desktop pet for Windows that features a 3D anime-style character you can interact with. It supports VRM models, allowing you to import custom characters, and includes physics-based reactions. It's a great choice if you prefer 3D visuals and Windows compatibility.
Bongo Cat
Bongo Cat is a simple, free desktop pet that sits in your taskbar and taps along as you type and click. It's lightweight, cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux), and highly meme-worthy. While it doesn't have XP or unlockables, it's perfect for minimalists who just want a cute typing companion.
Oneko
Oneko is a retro-style desktop pet that chases your cursor around the screen. It's free, open-source, and available for multiple platforms. It's extremely lightweight and nostalgic, but lacks the modern features and progression system of Paw-Paw.
Pet
Pet is a free, open-source desktop pet for macOS that lets you script custom behaviors using JavaScript. It's highly customizable and developer-friendly, but it requires coding knowledge and doesn't offer built-in rewards or collectibles.
Wallpaper Engine
Wallpaper Engine is a paid app on Steam that allows animated wallpapers, including interactive pets and characters. While not strictly a desktop pet, it offers a wide range of user-created pets and scenes. It's Windows-only and costs around $4, but provides extensive customization.
Live2DViewerEX
Live2DViewerEX is a paid app that brings Live2D animated characters to your desktop. It supports custom models, interactions, and even pet-like behaviors. It's available on Windows and macOS, and while it's more complex and costs money, it offers high-quality animations and deep customization.
Paw-Paw stands out for its native macOS integration, typing-based progression, and charming unlockables. If you want more customization, cross-platform support, or 3D characters, Shimeji, Desktop Mate, or Live2DViewerEX are strong picks. For a minimalist typing companion, Bongo Cat is a perfect free alternative. Ultimately, the best choice depends on whether you prioritize simplicity, customization, or platform compatibility.