The term 'CHERISHED ANIMAL' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: PET (3 letters) and DEER (4 letters). Pets are animals that are kept as companions, often living in the home of their owners. They are usually domesticated animals such as cats, dogs, birds, and fish, but can also include other animals such as rabbits, ferrets, and reptiles. DEER are hoofed mammals that are found in many parts of the world. They are typically herbivores, and have a wide range of habitats, from forests to grasslands.