10 Greatest Star Trek Pets

4. I-Chaya The Heroic Sehlat

I-Chaya
CBS Media Ventures

Unfortunately, not every entry on this list can be wholesome and cosy. You might want to get a handkerchief ready for this one.

Spock's childhood pet, I-Chaya, seems to be remembered just as fondly by fans as by the boy himself. The legend of I-Chaya was teased in the episode Journey to Babel, when Dr McCoy, being his usual tactful and supportive self, decided to wheedle some gossip out of Spock's mother. Amanda lets it slip that young Spock was very fond of his pet sehlat, describing him as a fat teddy bear (we prefer the word cuddly).

McCoy inevitably starts teasing Spock, but it turns out his real-life teddy bear came with six-inch fangs. Fangs or not, when we finally meet I-Chaya in the animated episode Yesteryear, he is every bit as lovable as we hoped.

Young Spock takes solace in their bond, snuggling into that inviting fur and offloading his troubles. Honestly, we could all do with an I-Chaya now and then. His soft, thick coat, unwavering loyalty and gentle patience...it's easy to see why Spock was so fond of him.

Sadly, I-Chaya proved his endless devotion by saving young Spock at the cost of his own life. As devastating as it is for the boy, he learns that grief can be endured if the life that was lost had meaning. (Is anyone else getting flashbacks of Spock sacrificing himself for Kirk?)

If only we could all be lucky enough to have such a remarkable, faithful animal companion. McCoy's just jealous.

Contributor

Katherine has been boldly going since childhood, when the BBC Two 6pm Star Trek slot changed her life. She was drawn in by the franchise's optimism, compassion and flair for character-driven storytelling. She's been writing stories since she could pick up a pen and has spent far too much time immersed in television, films, books, music and theatre. She loves any chance to talk or write about her favourite fandoms, of which there are many. When not busy writing, she can usually be found playing video games or explaining why the concept of a transporter is actually terrifying.