Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.

Cats are one of the most popular species of pets in the world, second only to dogs. They are considered good pets because they are independent and they don’t need walking, like dogs, but they can be highly affectionate and loving. They don’t need cleaning out like small animals in enclosures, although indoor cats will need their litter trays emptied, and they do need regular feeding and both physical exercise and mental stimulation.

While they make popular pets, however, there is a massive overpopulation problem, partially caused by the fact that they breed profusely. A single unspayed female cat, and her offspring, can theoretically produce as many as 350,000 kittens in just 7 years. While 80% to 90% of the U.S.’s pet cat population is spayed or neutered, this isn’t true of the stray and homeless cat population, which has led to an estimated 30 to 40 million homeless cats living in the U.S.

Although it is very difficult to determine the exact population of homeless, feral, and stray cats, we have found statistics related to this and other factors concerning the cat overpopulation crisis that is currently being faced.

The 14 Cat Overpopulation Statistics

1. There are approximately 75 million pet cats in the U.S.
2. Approximately 40% of pet cats are adopted.
3. 80% to 90% of pet cats are spayed or neutered.
4. 6–8 million dogs and cats are surrendered every year in the U.S.
5. 2.6 million cats are adopted from U.S. shelters each year.
6. There are more than 14,000 rescues and shelters in the U.S.
7. There are nearly a million more pets in shelters now than in 2021.
8. More cats enter shelters than dogs.
9. 330,000 cats were euthanized in 2023.
10. 15% more animals in shelters were euthanized in 2023 compared to 2022.
11. 80% of animals euthanized in shelters are otherwise healthy.
12. There are around 30 to 40 million stray and unhomed cats in the U.S.
13. Only 10% of the homeless animal population makes it into shelters and rescues.
14. A single unspayed female cat, and her offspring, can produce more than 350,000 kittens in 7 years.

Cat Ownership

1. There are approximately 75 million pet cats in the U.S.

(World Population Review)

Cats are the second most popular species of pets in the U.S. with a population of around 75 million. This includes moggies, which combine two or more breeds, as well as purebred breeds. The figure includes kittens and adult cats, as well as those that are bought from breeders and cats that have been adopted from shelters and rescues.

2. Approximately 40% of pet cats are adopted.

(Humane Pro 1)

Of the pet cat population, 43% of pet cats were adopted from rescues and shelters while a further 24% were taken in as strays or were caught outside. 21% came from friends or relatives, with another 8% having been bought from pet stores and 4% bought directly from breeders. 7% were also said to be bred at home and 3% of the cat population were given as gifts to the pet owner.

In 2018, just 31% of cats were adopted, which means more people are adopting than before, but the number still needs to be higher to be able to control the cat population and manage the large number of cats that end up in shelters.

3. 80% to 90% of pet cats are spayed or neutered.

(Humane Pro 2)

When it comes to pet cats, owners generally have their cats neutered or spayed. Doing so can prolong the life expectancy of cats because it prevents male and female cats from developing certain cancers. It can also make the cats less likely to run away or stray from the house.

Between 80% and 90% of pet cats have been spayed or neutered, but this does mean there are still between 7.5 and 15 million intact pet cats. And the ratio of stray, feral, and homeless cats that are unaltered is likely to be much higher than this figure.

4. 6–8 million dogs and cats are surrendered every year in the U.S.

(Pride And Groom)

Owners surrender their pets for various reasons. Since 2021, more people are surrendering pets because they don’t have the time to spend with them anymore, while the cost-of-living crisis means that a lot of owners don’t have the money to be able to provide proper care.

Other reasons include changes in personal circumstances or home life, such as new pets not getting along with existing pets or the introduction of a new baby to the home. In total, between 6 and 8 million pet cats and dogs are surrendered every year.

5. 2.6 million cats are adopted from U.S. shelters each year.

(Shelter Animals Count)

Shelters are packed with cats looking for homes, even though an estimated 2.6 million cats are adopted from rescues and shelters. Shelters are centers that get government funding. Some of the staff are paid.

Rescues do not receive any funding and are typically staffed entirely by volunteers. They depend on adoption fees and donations from the public to survive.

Cats In Shelters

6. There are more than 14,000 rescues and shelters in the U.S.

(Shelter Animals Count)

Rescues and shelters perform invaluable services. They take in stray, feral, and homeless cats. They care for the cats while they are in their care, and they will look for new loving homes with adopters. Some shelters also send cats out to foster carers, who can help rehabilitate cats so they will settle into a new home better when they are given the opportunity.

Although there is not an official list or register of these types of services, there are estimated to be more than 13,000 across the U.S. This number is made up of 5,000 shelters, which receive government funding, and more than 9,000 rescues, which are not government funded.

7. There are nearly a million more pets in shelters now than in 2021.

(USA Today)

During COVID-19 and the lockdowns that were implemented in order to try and stop the spread of the pandemic, many existing and new owners took on pet cats. However, since lockdowns ended, owners have less time to spend looking after their cats as people have returned to work. This has led to a massive surge in the number of cats that have been surrendered to facilities.

Nearly a million more pets are in shelters and rescues today than in 2021, which represents a significant increase in the homeless cat population.

8. More cats enter shelters than dogs.

(Shelter Animals Count)

Although the numbers are roughly similar, slightly more cats are surrendered than dogs, even though cats are said to be more independent.

Of the 6.5 million cats and dogs estimated to enter shelters, 3.3 million were cats and 3.2 million were dogs. This is higher than in 2022 and 2021 but represents a slight drop when compared to 2019, which was the last full year before Covid lockdowns occurred.

9. 330,000 cats were euthanized in 2023.

(Shelter Animals Count)

Unfortunately, with more cats entering shelters than being adopted from shelters, it means that some of the cats in shelters end up being euthanized. The alternative is that shelters refuse to take more cats in, which leads to an increase in the population of homeless and feral cats.

It’s a difficult decision for shelters and rescues to make and while some do have a no-kill policy, which means they won’t euthanize healthy animals, a total of 330,000 cats were euthanized because there wasn’t room for them in shelters, in 2023.

10. 15% more animals in shelters were euthanized in 2023 compared to 2022.

(NBC Boston)

There are so many more pets being relinquished by owners today, compared to a few years ago, that there was a 15% increase in the number of cats and dogs euthanized in animal shelters last year, compared to 2022.

Although the ratio of cats being adopted continues to increase, the size of the cat population and the number of cats being handed over to rescues is increasing more quickly, which means that the number of euthanizations will continue to increase at a quicker rate.

11. 80% of animals euthanized in shelters are otherwise healthy.

(Kitten Coalition)

Some shelters and rescues have adopted a no-kill policy. This means they won’t euthanize any animal that is healthy and doesn’t suffer from severe behavioral problems. However, this policy means that the shelters fill up quickly and they cannot take in new animals.

Any abandoned or homeless animals are left to tend themselves, which means it is a tough call to make for the organizers. Despite this policy being adopted by some shelters, more than three-quarters of the animals that are euthanized at shelters are otherwise healthy.

Homeless Cats

12. There are around 30 to 40 million stray and unhomed cats in the U.S.

(Humane Pro 1)

As well as cats in homes and those in rescues and shelters, there is a large population of cats that live in towns and cities with no homes. There are also feral cats that live in more urban areas.

It is very difficult to determine the exact population of these cats, but it is estimated between 30 and 40 million cats are living without homes. This means there are around half as many cats without homes as there are with homes. And there are 10 times as many cats living on the streets as entering shelters each yet.

13. Only 10% of the homeless animal population makes it into shelters and rescues.

(PETA)

Although life in a shelter is not ideal for a cat, it is better than living on the streets or in fields. Life on the streets is especially difficult, with cats being involved in traffic accidents, attacked by people, and being more likely to suffer ill health.

These cats are also unlikely to be spayed or neutered which means they are very likely to further increase the population of homeless cats. Only around 10% of the homeless animal population, which includes both cats and dogs, makes it into shelters to have a chance of finding a loving home.

14. A Single unspayed female cat, and her offspring, can produce more than 350,000 kittens in 7 years.

(PETA)

One of the reasons that there is such a big cat overpopulation problem is that cats are prolific breeders. Females can reach sexual maturity at just four months old and can continue breeding until they are eight years old. A typical litter contains between one and nine kittens, and a female can have up to four litters in one year.

This means that a single female cat can have as many as 36 kittens a year, or more than 250 in her life. If those kittens go on to have kittens of their own, it is easy to see how overpopulation occurs. A single female cat and the offspring she produces could, in theory, have 350,000 kittens in just 7 years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is The Cat Population Increasing?

It’s impossible to give exact numbers, but the population of cats is increasing. This is especially true of stray and homeless cats, and there has also been a significant increase in the number of cats in rescues and shelters. However, the number of cats being kept as pets is significant.

Why Is the Cat Population So High?

Several factors have led to the increase in cat population. First, they are prolific breeders, and a single female cat can have hundreds of kittens in its lifetime. While the vast majority of pet cats are neutered or spayed, it only takes a small portion of the population to get pregnant and this leads to a big increase in cat numbers.

What’s more, stray and feral cats are less likely to have been altered, which means more cats being born on the streets. Finally, because shelters and rescues are packed, it means that more cats are being left homeless, further exacerbating the problem.

What Should You Do If You Find a Stray Cat?

Remember that some cats are outdoor cats. Just because you see one outdoors, doesn’t necessarily mean it is homeless. If you see the same cat and it is looking thinner, you can try leaving a note on its collar. If it is owned, the owner will hopefully report back to you.

If you do find a stray cat, and it lets you approach it, look for a collar or ID tag. Alternatively, contact a warden or have the cat scanned at a local vet to check for a microchip. Cats do wander, which means the stray cat you have seen may be lost.

Should All Cats Be Neutered or Spayed?

To help prevent further overpopulation, all cats should be spayed or neutered. What’s more, this doesn’t just help control the population problem. Intact cats are more likely to develop certain cancers and other diseases, which means having your cat spayed can help prolong its life and keep it healthier.

Altered cats are also less likely to wander, so there is less chance that your cat will go missing.

Does Neutering Harm Cats?

Neutering is the removal of the testes from male cats, while spaying is the removal of the ovaries and uterus from females. Both procedures can help prevent certain health issues and will prevent unwanted pregnancies and births. It can also calm a feisty cat, prevent it from roaming, and may even stop them from spraying in the house to mark territory.

Conclusion

Cats are popular pets. They can be very affectionate, don’t need to be taken on long walks every day, are fun, and offer companionship. However, they do need regular care and they do cost money throughout their lives.

Some owners that take cats on find they cannot afford to keep them or don’t have enough time to spend with them, and these eventualities can lead to cats being surrendered or abandoned. This leads to overpopulation, especially when the stray cats have not been neutered or spayed, and is one of the main reasons why there is a population of 30 to 40 million stray cats in the U.S. alone.

See Also: 

• How Many Cats Lived on the Titanic? Facts & History
• Do Pets Affect Intimacy Between Pet Parents? Survey Results

Featured Image Credit: Lea Rae, Shutterstock

The post 14 Cat Overpopulation Statistics (2024 Update) by Matt Jackson appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.

Cats have become much more popular pets in recent years. While dogs remain the most common pet in most countries, cats aren’t that far behind, and the gap between pet cats and dogs seems to close more with each passing year.

More and more households throughout the world are adopting pet cats, and cat ownership trends are changing as a result. Here are some of the latest statistics on pet cats and how current trends look for cat ownership.

The 16 Cat Ownership Statistics

1. In 2024, the US, China, and Russia have the highest cat ownership rates in the world.
2. Between 2023 and 2024, 46.5 million US households own a cat.
3. Vermont is the state with the highest rate of cat ownership at 44.6%.
4. Millennials have the highest rate of pet ownership at 33%.
5. 39% of homeowners have pet cats, while 29% of renters have pet cats.
6. 43% of cat owners get their cats from a pet store, and 40% of cat owners adopt their cats from an animal shelter or rescue.
7. Asheras are listed as one of the most expensive cat breeds in 2024 and can cost up to $125,000 per cat.
8. 3 million cats entered animal shelters and rescues in 2023.
9. 6 million shelter cats were adopted in 2023.
10. Cat adoptions have increased by 14% since 2019.
11. Cat owners spent between $314 to $755 on initial cat care costs.
12. Cat owners spend between $961 to $2,487 on their cats annually.
13. Cat owners spend the most on food, with $310 being the average annual spending.
14. The average cost of pet insurance for cats is $30 a month.
15. Gen Z cat owners are 16 times more likely than Baby Boomers to get pet insurance.
16. 38% of cat owners thought they were financially ready for pet care expenses but actually were not.

Cat Ownership Demographics

1. In 2024, the US, China, and Russia have the highest cat ownership rates in the world.

(World Population Review)

The US is a pet-loving country and far surpasses other countries in pet ownership. There are an estimated 74 million domesticated cats in the US. China is second, with about 53 million pet cats, and Russia is third, with approximately 23 million pet cats. Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Ukraine, Japan, and Poland are subsequently among the top 10 countries with the highest number of pet cats.

2. Between 2023 and 2024, 46.5 million US households own a cat.

(APPA)

Cats are the second most popular pets in the US, with about 46.5 million US households having at least one pet cat. Dogs remain the most popular pet, with about 65.1 million US households having at least one pet dog. The third most popular pet is birds, and about 6.1 million US households have birds.

3. Vermont is the state with the highest rate of cat ownership at 44.6%.

(World Population Review)

Most US states have more pet dogs than cats. However, Vermont is among the few states that have households with more pet cats than dogs. 44.6% of pet owners in Vermont have pet cats, while 28.3% of pet owners have dogs. Maine is the only other state with more pet cats than dogs, with 43.6% of pet owners having cats and 35.9% of pet owners having dogs. The state with the lowest cat ownership rate within the contiguous US is Rhode Island. Rhode Island has a generally low pet ownership rate, and just 16.7% of pet owners have cats.

4. Millennials have the highest rate of pet ownership at 33%.

(APPA)

Millennials surpass Gen Z, Gen X, Baby Boomer, and Builder generations when it comes to pet ownership. Gen X comes second with a pet ownership rate of 25%. 24% of pet owners are Baby Boomers, and 16% of pet owners are Gen Z.

5. 39% of homeowners have pet cats, while 29% of renters have pet cats.

(AVMA)

The majority of cat owners are also homeowners. It’s likely that cat ownership among renters is lower due to limited rental housing options and pet fees that landlords charge to pet owners.

Cat Adoptions

6. 43% of cat owners get their cats from a pet store, and 40% of cat owners adopt their cats from an animal shelter or rescue.

(AVMA)

Cats are more likely to be adopted through a pet store or animal shelter. Many pet stores partner with local pet adoption agencies by temporarily housing adoptable cats and coordinating cat adoptions. Only about 7% of pet cats are acquired from a breeder.

7. Asheras are listed as one of the most expensive cat breeds in 2024 and can cost up to $125,000 per cat.

(FinancesOnline)

Asheras were developed by crossbreeding African Servals, Asian Leopard Cats, and domesticated cats. They’re extremely rare because they’re challenging to breed, and one Ashera cat breeder produces about five Ashera kittens a year. Other expensive cat breeds include Savannahs, Bengals, Persians, and Peterbalds.

8. 3 million cats entered animal shelters and rescues in 2023.

(Shelter Animals Count)

The rate of cat intakes at animal shelters has fluctuated slightly since the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2023 rate is 3.2% lower than the 2019 rate. When compared to 2022, there was a 0.2% increase in cat intakes at animal shelters in 2023. Cat intakes and dog intakes are nearly the same, with 51% of animal intakes being cats and 49% of intakes being dogs.

9. 6 million shelter cats were adopted in 2023.

(Shelter Animals Count)

In 2023, cat adoptions were slightly higher than dog adoptions. 54% of pet adoptions involved a cat, while 46% involved dogs. 2023 also saw an increase in live outcomes, such as adoptions, being returned to owners, or feral cats being returned to the field. When compared to 2022 data, 166,000 more animals had a live outcome.

10. Cat adoptions have increased by 14% since 2019.

(ASPCA)

The number of cat adoptions has increased generally since 2019, with about 319,000 more cats getting adopted in 2023 than in 2019. The rate of intakes that led to adoptions increased from 59% in 2019 to 65% in 2023. There has also been an increase in the number of animals waiting for an outcome, including those in foster care and those transferring to different adoption organizations. Compared to 2022, 177,000 more animals have waited for an outcome in 2023.

Cat Ownership Spendings

11. Cat owners spent between $314 to $755 on initial cat care costs.

(Synchrony)

Initial cat care costs include adoption fees, purchasing supplies, and vet visits. These costs depend on the cat’s age and health condition. Spay and neuter fees are among the most significant factors that affect initial cat care costs, along with the type of cat food and pet insurance.

12. Cat owners spend between $961 to $2,487 on their cats annually.

(Synchrony)

Spending will depend on a variety of factors, including food, veterinary care visits, cat litter, and toys. Considering how the range of spending is relatively broad, it’s possible to make significant savings by choosing more budget-friendly cat care products. You can also experience more savings by choosing generic medication, shopping during sales, and signing up for subscription services.

13. Cat owners spend the most on food, with $310 being the average annual spending.

(AVMA)

Healthy cats don’t really have too many significant regular care costs other than food and cat litter. Cat owners can experience some savings by choosing affordable cat food that doesn’t significantly sacrifice quality. Scheduling mealtimes and monitoring how much a cat eats can help prevent food waste and ensure cats are eating just the right amount of food.

14. The average cost of pet insurance for cats is $30 a month.

(Forbes)

Pet insurance can help lessen the financial stress that comes from unexpected health diagnoses in cats. Diagnostic tests and treatments can easily reach thousands of dollars that cat owners would have to pay out-of-pocket. Pet insurance can help cover these costs, and most pet insurance plans for cats have average premiums that are lower than premiums for dogs. Pet insurance premiums are typically affected by the cat’s age and breed, and cities with higher living costs usually have the most expensive pet insurance premiums.

15. Gen Z cat owners are 16 times more likely than Baby Boomers to get pet insurance.

(MarketWatch)

Gen Z has been named the generation with the most responsible pet owners due to having the highest percentage of pet owners with pet insurance plans and the greater likelihood of taking their pets to the vet.

41.5% of Gen Z pet owners have pet insurance, and 33.1% are either interested or researching it. 14% of Gen Z pet owners think pet insurance is too expensive, and 9.4% believe it’s unnecessary.

In contrast, less than 3% of Baby Boomer pet owners have pet insurance. 37.9% believe pet insurance is too expensive, and 19.8% believe it’s unnecessary.

16. 38% of cat owners thought they were financially ready for pet care expenses but actually were not.

(Synchrony)

Cats are typically more budget-friendly than dogs, but they can still take up a significant portion of your budget. Cat care fees vary depending on a cat’s age and breed, and cats have a higher risk of developing a chronic health issue as they get older. Many pet owners aren’t prepared to pay for unexpected veterinary care costs when their cats get sick, especially if they don’t have pet insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Ownership

What is the most popular cat breed in the US?

The most common cat breed you’ll find in someone’s home is the Domestic Shorthair, and many adoptable cats have Domestic Shorthair in their lineage. When it comes to purebred cats, Ragdolls, Maine Coons, Devon Rexes, Exotic Shorthairs, and Persians are among the most popular breeds in American families.

Is cat ownership less expensive than dog ownership?

In most cases, cats are less expensive than dogs. Due to their small size, they tend to eat less than dogs, and many cat toys and treats are cheaper than dog toys and treats. Pet insurance premiums are also usually lower for cats than dogs.

However, taking care of a cat still takes up a significant part of most people’s annual budget. So, it’s important to calculate costs thoroughly before bringing home a new pet cat.

What is the average lifespan of pet cats?

A cat’s lifespan is affected by both genetics and lifestyle. Some cat breeds are known to live longer lives, and cats that have healthy lifestyles have a lower risk of shortened lifespans. In general, you can expect pet cats to live anywhere from 12 to 18 years, and indoor cats have longer life expectancies than outdoor cats.

How long can cats be left alone?

Your cat’s ability to be home alone will depend on their individual temperament and social needs. Some cat breeds are more social than others, and they don’t do well being by themselves for long hours. In general, it’s not recommended to leave your cat home alone for more than 8 hours at a time.

It’s a common myth that cats can be left alone for multiple days as long as they have food and water. However, most cats will feel distressed when their owners leave and are left home alone for more than 24 hours.

Cats are capable of forming strong bonds with people, and they have social needs. Failure to meet their social needs can cause emotional distress and lead to behavioral issues, including separation anxiety and engaging in destructive activities. Therefore, if you plan to leave your cats for a couple of days, make sure to arrange for cat sitters to take care of your cats while you’re away.

Conclusion

Cats are popular pets in many countries, and the most common way to acquire them is through pet adoptions. Cat adoptions have increased steadily over the past several years, and Millennials and Gen Z are most likely to own cats.

While taking care of cats generally costs less than caring for dogs, many people still face challenges with budgeting due to rising pet care costs. The most significant financial challenge is unexpected medical bills. Financial challenges have caused more interest in pet insurance and other methods of budgeting for pet care. It’ll be interesting to see how pet trends continue to change and adapt to modern cat ownership and what cat ownership will look like as we continue to follow pet trends in the US.

See also:

• 14 Cat Overpopulation Statistics
• How Many Cats Lived on the Titanic? Facts & History

Featured Image Credit: evrymmnt, Shutterstock

The post 16 Cat Ownership Statistics (2024 Update) by Jessica Kim appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Thanks to several factors, including the recent Covid-19 pandemic, pet ownership worldwide has increased significantly.¹ The millennial generation, in particular, leads the charge, with many of these young people initially choosing pet parenthood over human children. Pet owners know there’s no replacing the bond with our animals, but what happens when it’s time to look for love of the human variety?

If you’re a single pet parent looking for love, you might wonder how your dog or cat will impact your relationship with a human partner. While we may not have all the answers you’re looking for, we did take the time to survey over 1,000 pet parents about how their animals affect the intimacy and closeness of their long-term relationships. Keep reading to learn what we discovered and what it could mean for your future love life.

Do Pets Affect Intimacy & Closeness Between Pet Parents?

1. Only 6% of respondents say their pets frequently hinder or interfere with them and their partner’s intimate or alone time.
2. Almost half, 44%, say their pet never hinders or interferes with them and their partner’s intimate or alone time.
3. One-third of pet parents surveyed said they occasionally feel that their pet receives more love and attention than they give each other.
4. One out of four pet parents who responded said they rarely feel that their pet receives more love and attention than they give each other.
5. Only 5% of respondents feel that they are in competition with their pet for their partner’s love, time, attention, affection, care, and appreciation.
6. Almost one-quarter (24%) of respondents feel that they are not in competition with their pet for their partner’s love, time, attention, affection, care, and appreciation.

The Results: Getting Intimate

1. 6% of respondents say their pets frequently hinder or interfere with them and their partner’s intimate or alone time

A small percentage of pet parents surveyed reported that their pets don’t make it easy for their humans to spend special time together! This interference ranged from cats that meow angrily outside the bedroom door while their pet parents are together to those who try to join in on the cuddle session. A few pet parents reported more dramatic incidents, like dogs and cats who tried to bite or scratch one or both human partners during and after alone time.

2. 44% say their pet never hinders or interferes with them and their partner’s intimate or alone time.

Happily, almost half of the pet parents reported they could enjoy time with their human partners without interference from their fur kids. And it’s not just because the pets aren’t in the bedroom either. One of the survey questions asked where the pet sleeps within the house.

Most pet owners we surveyed allow their pets to sleep in the bedroom, often in the bed with them. Single pet owners can rest assured that finding a special someone doesn’t always mean giving up their dog or cat snuggles at night.

Who Gets More Love?

3. 33% say they occasionally feel that their pet receives more love and attention than they give each other.

Roughly one-third of those who responded to our survey felt that their pets occasionally attracted more attention than they did in their relationships. However, many also stated they didn’t mind when their partner paid more attention to the pet. Pet parents sometimes felt even more affection toward their human partners when they witnessed their love for a pet.

Some felt it was only appropriate to provide more attention to the pet since they viewed them as their “kid.” Other pet parents admitted to feeling jealous of their partner’s attention to the dog or cat, while some reported mixed emotions on the subject.

4. 25% say they rarely feel that their pet receives more love and attention than they give each other

One in four of the pet parents surveyed reported that they rarely feel their pet commands the most attention in their relationship. While we didn’t ask them to specify why this is the case, it could be an interesting area for further study. Does every member of the family receive equal amounts of love, or do the humans not feel like they’re in competition with the pets? What other factors could be at play here?

Stiff Competition

5. 5% of respondents feel that they are in competition with their pet for their partner’s love, time, attention, affection, care, and appreciation.

A small percentage of those who participated in our survey reported feeling competitive with a pet for their human partners’ attention. Likely, these are also those who reported being jealous of the attention their partner gives their pet. Many pet parents admitted that their pets play favorites between them and their partner, which may be a factor in the responses to this question.

Another factor to consider is whether one or both partners entered the relationship with pets. If one partner owned the pet before the other joined the family, the new partner could feel more jealousy or competitiveness. The opposite could be true if the pet instantly falls for the new partner!

6. 24% of respondents feel that they are not in competition with their pet for their partner’s love, time, attention, affection, care, and appreciation.

Slightly less than a quarter of survey participants felt that there was no competition with their pet for attention and love. These two numbers suggest that most pet parents in long-term relationships feel some competition, but the results typically fall between the two extremes. Again, there are likely a variety of reasons for this number.

Are pet parents who describe themselves as “co-pawrents” less likely to feel competition? As we mentioned in the introduction, many millennial couples choose to get a pet before starting a human family. Do couples who adopt or buy a pet together feel less competition for attention?

They say knowledge is power, so if you’re a single pet parent, it appears that you or your partner may feel some competition with your dog or cat. Knowing this ahead of time may make it easier for you to navigate these potential relationship hurdles.

Our Methodology

How We Conducted Our Survey

Our survey was conducted using social media and Pollfish. Of the 1,005 responses, 800 were received on Pollfish, and the remaining 205 came from social media.

Who Did We Survey?

The results of this survey were based on responses from 1,005 U.S. citizens between the ages of 18-65. All are current pet owners who are either married or living with a partner. Dog owners were more heavily represented than cat parents, which may reflect the fact that dogs are the more popular pet worldwide. Two-thirds of survey participants were dog owners, with the remaining 32% identifying as cat owners.

Who Are Their Pets?

A slight majority of pet owners from our survey own female pets— 55%. Forty-seven percent own male pets. Rescue pets were most heavily represented in our data, with 34% of owners surveyed reporting this as the method their pets joined the family. The next most common, at 21%, was receiving a pet as a gift. The other pets were found as strays (15%,) born into the family (12%,) or purchased from a breeder (11%.)

What Did We Ask?

In addition to gathering general information about pets and their parents, we also asked questions to categorize pet owners, such as how long they have owned their pet, which partner is the primary pet caregiver, and how many hours per day they spend with their pet.

Other questions probed the nature of the pet-human relationship, such as who makes financial decisions for the pet and who disciplines the pet. We also asked whether the human partners disagreed about finances, discipline, or where the pet sleeps. Additional survey questions included whether pets behaved differently around human partners and specific incidents of trouble surrounding the pet parents’ alone time.

To help us answer the big dilemma of whether pets affect intimacy and closeness between pet parents, we asked questions such as who the pet parents would rather cuddle with and who they first think about when they get home from work.

Now, The Big Question…

For one of our final questions, we posed a hypothetical scenario; if your human partner issued an ultimatum, would you break up with them or give up your pet for adoption? Overwhelmingly, our survey participants chose their pets over their partners. It seems there really is no comparison to the unconditional love we get from our pets.

• See Also: Can Cats Fall in Love with Each Other or Humans? Feline Feelings Explored

Featured Image Credit: Ground Picture, Shutterstock

The post Do Pets Affect Intimacy Between Pet Parents? 2024 Survey Results by Elizabeth Gray appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Cats were domesticated about 10,000 years ago, and they have since made their way to nearly all corners of the globe. Felines are now found on all continents except Antarctica, where they are popular as pets, but they also form significant feral and semi-feral populations.

Unfortunately, thanks to their skill as hunters, cats are also one of the most significant threats to bird populations in many countries. In the United States, cats kill an estimated 1.3–4.0 billion each year. In this article, we’ll cover 13 statistics you need to know about how many birds cats kill worldwide.

The 13 Statistics for How Many Birds Cats Kill

1. In the United States, cats kill an estimated 1.3–4.0 billion birds each year.
2. In the United Kingdom, cats kill approximately 27 million birds each spring and summer.
3. A study done in Australia in 2017 estimated that cats killed an average of 1 million birds per day, about 377 million per year.
4. In Canada, an estimated 100–350 million birds fall victim to cats each year.
5. In Poland, cats kill roughly 136 million birds each year.
6. The domestic cats of Cape Town, South Africa, kill about 450,000 cats each year.
7. A 2021 study estimated that cats kill between 2.69–5.52 billion birds in China each year.
8. Cats are responsible for the extinction of at least 40 bird species worldwide.
9. On islands worldwide, feral cats are the main threat to almost 8% of endangered species, including birds.
10. An estimated 2%–7% of birds in southern Canada are killed by cats each year.
11. In the United States, unowned cats are responsible for about 69% of annual bird deaths.
12. In Australia, feral cats are responsible for about 272 million of the 377 million yearly bird killings.
13. Overall, unowned cats kill three times as many animals, including birds, than pet cats that are allowed to roam.

How Many Birds Are Killed by Cats Worldwide?

1. In the United States, cats kill an estimated 1.3–4.0 billion birds each year.

(Nature Communications)

Cats are the leading cause of death for birds in the United States. The second leading cause of death is collisions with windows, which kills about 988 million birds each year.

2. In the United Kingdom, cats kill approximately 27 million birds each spring & summer.

(RSPB)

This figure is believed to be an underestimation because it counts only confirmed kills, not birds caught and eaten or injured, only to die later. The most commonly killed species in the United Kingdom are house sparrows, bluetits, blackbirds, and starlings.

3. A study done in Australia in 2017 estimated that cats killed an average of 1 million birds per day, about 377 million per year.

(Science Direct)

The rate of bird deaths in Australia varies depending on whether the country is experiencing the wet or dry season. Approximately 99% of the birds killed are native species. The rates of bird deaths on islands are about ten times higher than in mainland locations.

4. In Canada, an estimated 100-350 million birds fall victim to cats each year.

(Avian Conservation And Ecology)

Canadian researchers found that certain species were especially vulnerable to cats. These included species that nest on or near the ground and those most likely to live near humans and eat at bird feeders. Feral cats are known to kill adult ducks and game birds that are the same size as they are.

5. In Poland, cats kill roughly 136 million birds each year.

(Journal of Environmental Law)

This figure is based on a study of farm cats, so the actual number may well be higher. Like in the U.S., cats are the leading cause of death for birds in several European countries. The article cited, published in 2019, caused much controversy in Europe because it suggested that owners of free-ranging cats violated European Union environmental laws.

6. The domestic cats of Cape Town, South Africa, kill about 450,000 cats each year.

(Africa Geographic)

The impact of cats on birds is not well-studied in Africa. Previous estimates of birds killed in Cape Town relied on a survey of cat owners recording the prey their kitties brought home. However, this study relied on data compiled by placing “kitty cams” on 130 cats and studying the footage. Video evidence revealed that cats killed 80% of their prey on the spot when they caught it, causing the researchers to revise their previous estimate upward by about five times.

7. A 2021 study estimated that cats kill between 2.69–5.52 billion birds in China each year.

(Biological Conservation)

The researchers specified that this is the minimum number of birds killed each year in China. They arrived at their data using statistical analysis of kill rates from owned, feral, and semi-feral cats from both urban and rural areas of China. The impact of this death rate on the biodiversity of Chinese bird species is unknown but suspected to be harmful.

What Impact Do Cat Killings Have on the Overall Bird Population?

8. Cats are responsible for the extinction of at least 40 bird species worldwide.

(People And Nature)

Because cats aren’t technically native to any country or continent, they are considered an invasive species worldwide. Their predatory impact is most commonly felt on native wildlife species, especially those living on islands. Legend has it that a single cat was responsible for the extinction of the Stephen’s Island wren, a flightless bird found on a single island near New Zealand. In reality, several cats were probably to blame, but the impact remains enormous.

9. On islands worldwide, feral cats are the main threat to almost 8% of endangered species, including birds.

(Global Change Biology)

Predatory felines have an oversized impact on islands because they contain the majority of the biodiversity on Earth. Island species tend to be unprepared to deal with the effects of such a prolific predator, making them easy targets for quick extinction. This study reported on the results of cat predation from 120 islands worldwide.

10. An estimated 2%–7% of birds in southern Canada are killed by cats each year.

(Avian Conservation And Ecology)

These numbers are likely an undercount because researchers did not have a very accurate count of the feral cat population in Canada or their eating habits. Many of the species affected live primarily in southern Canada, hence the greater kill rate in that area.

Do Pet Cats or Feral Cats Kill More Birds?

11. In the United States, unowned cats are responsible for about 69% of annual bird deaths.

(Nature)

For this study, the authors counted barn cats, colony cats, strays fed by humans, and feral cats as unowned. The number and predation rate of these stray cats caused the most variation and uncertainties in determining the overall bird death counts.

12. In Australia, feral cats are responsible for about 272 million of the 377 million yearly bird killings.

(Science Direct)

This number includes only birds killed in natural settings because it was reported with a greater confidence level by the researchers. They also estimate that an additional 44 million birds are killed by feral cats in “modified landscapes,” although they have less evidence to support this number. This leaves only 61 million bird deaths to attribute to pet cats.

13. Overall, unowned cats kill three times as many animals, including birds, than pet cats that are allowed to roam.

(Nature)

For cats, hunting is an instinct not always driven by hunger. Because of this, even pet cats that never miss a meal will still kill birds. However, stray cats kill at a much higher rate overall, leading to this statistic. Feral cats have much higher access to wildlife, as well as a greater need to feed themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Other Species Do Cats Kill?

Cats take a serious toll on birds, but they are much more destructive to mammals. Reptiles, amphibians, and insects are all frequent victims as well. For example, in the United States, mammals killed by cats each year number from 6.3 to 22.3 billion! In Australia, cats kill almost twice as many reptiles as birds each year, about 649 million. (Journal Of Environmental Law)

Besides Direct Killing, What Other Impacts Do Cats Have on Wildlife Populations?

The mere presence of cats can impact birds’ feeding and nesting habits, even if they never actually kill one. The cat’s hunting habits also put them in direct competition with birds of prey, like hawks, which are already competing with other natural predators. Domestic cats can also pass diseases to wild cat species or shed parasites into the environment that impact multiple animals as well as water quality. (People And Nature)

How Can We Protect Birds From Cats?

The simplest way to protect birds is to keep cats indoors. Not only is this safest for birds but cats as well. Outdoor cats experience significantly shortened lifespans compared to indoor kitties. Life-threatening dangers to outdoor cats include vehicle accidents, diseases, fights with other cats, and falling victim to predators themselves.

If possible, outdoor cats should wear bells to help alert birds to their presence. Controlling feral cat populations is vital for protecting birds due to their higher predation rate. On islands with vulnerable, endangered species, feral cat populations are often eliminated entirely. Encouraging spaying and neutering of all cats, including trap-neuter-release (TNR) programs for feral colonies, is another effective way to decrease the number of feral cats. (Texas Biodiversity)

Conclusion

Cats may be the world’s cutest serial killers, but their impact on the planet’s biodiversity is undeniable. Add keeping your cat indoors to the list of changes you make to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle, and your local birds will thank you! If you’re worried your cat is missing out on enjoying the outdoors, consider building a “catio” or teaching your cat to walk on a leash. And be sure to provide plenty of toys, scratching posts, and attention to help your indoor kitty stay entertained and out of trouble.

Featured Image Credit: Sari ONeal, Shutterstock

The post How Many Birds Do Cats Kill? 13 Statistics to Know: 2024 Update (Vet-Reviewed) by Elizabeth Gray appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.

Cats are among the world’s most popular pets. To prove how much people love their feline companions, we filled this article with 15 cat statistics and facts. Even if you consider yourself a cat lover, you may be surprised at a few of these interesting bits of information. Cats never cease to amaze us! Read on to learn more about their lives around the world.

Top 15 Cat Statistics

1. In the United States, 26% of households own at least one cat.
2. There are approximately 82 million pet cats in the U.S.
3. In the European Union, Germany owns the most cats, with 24% of households having at least one pet feline.
4. The International Cat Association currently recognizes 73 breeds of cats.
5. Only 3% of cat owners in the U.S. get their cats from breeders.
6. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 40% increase in cat ownership in the United States.
7. Cat owners, on average, spend $120–$500 per year on their cat’s food.
8. Only 64% of lost cats that wind up in animal shelters are reunited with their owners.
9. Approximately 2.1 million cats are adopted each year from shelters.
10. Around 530,000 cats are euthanized in shelters each year.
11. An estimated 60–100 million cats in the U.S. live on the street without a home.
12. There are over 600 million cats in the world today, including pet, stray, and feral cats.
13. The average domestic indoor cat’s lifespan is 10–15 years.
14. Heart disease is the leading cause of sudden death in cats.
15. Cats spend up to 50% of their day grooming themselves.

Cat Ownership Statistics

1. In the United States, 26% of households own at least one cat.

(AVMA)

Many of these cats are mixed breeds. Most cat owners in the United States adopt their cats from shelters and rescues or get them from friends and family members. People are also likely to rescue a stray cat from the street and add them to their household. It’s much more common for people to purchase dogs rather than cats from breeders.

2. There are approximately 82 million pet cats in the U.S.

(Alley Cat Allies)

One in three households in the United States owns a cat. There is an average of 2.2 cats per cat household, so many people have more than one feline companion.

3. In the European Union, Germany owns the most cats, with 24% of households having at least one pet feline.

(Statista)

The pet cat population in Germany doesn’t include strays, which could be as high as 2 million. Efforts are underway to spay and neuter as many stray cats as possible in Germany. Cats are important to German cat owners, often taking the place of a partner or child in their lives. Cats provide balance in the lives of busy people and enhance their owners’ quality of life.

4. The International Cat Association currently recognizes 73 breeds of cats.

(TICA)

These breeds are recognized as pedigreed cats for championship competitions. This number can change regularly as new breeds are developed and introduced.

5. Only 3% of cat owners in the U.S. get their cats from breeders.

(ASPCA)

Around 27% of American cat households have obtained their cats by taking them in off the street as strays. 31% of cat owners get their cats from an animal shelter or humane society. Only 3% of cats in the country come from breeders, which might be because cats multiply so often and so quickly. They are easier and cheaper to acquire than puppies.

6. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 40% increase in cat ownership in the United States.

(HumanePro)

The COVID-19 pandemic influenced 40% of new cat owners to acquire a cat. Of that percentage, 49% of these new owners were male, 33% were female, and 56% were millennials.

7. Cat owners, on average, spend $120–$500 per year on their cat’s food.

(Bankrate)

Other recurring expenses that come with cat ownership are vet visits, vaccines, grooming, flea-and-tick prevention, treats, toys, and pet sitting/boarding.

Shelter Cat Statistics

8. Only 64% of lost cats that wind up in animal shelters are reunited with their owners.

(PetMD)

Around 1/3 of missing cats find their own way back home during the first week. Making sure that your cat is microchipped and that the information is current is a good way to increase the chances of being reunited should they go missing.

9. Approximately 2.1 million cats are adopted each year from shelters.

(ASPCA)

This may seem like a high number, but hundreds of thousands of cats are still euthanized each year in shelters. Due to an increase in awareness of spaying and neutering and adopting instead of buying pets, this number has decreased. In 2011, 2.6 million dogs and cats were euthanized in shelters. It has decreased to 920,000 dogs and cats each year.

10. Around 530,000 cats are euthanized in shelters each year.

(ASPCA)

While the number has decreased over the years, this is still an exceptionally high number of animals killed each year just because there aren’t enough homes for them. Spaying and neutering your cats, keeping them indoors, and making sure they’re microchipped with up-to-date information will lead to a further decrease in this number.

Feral Cat Statistics

11. An estimated 60–100 million cats in the US live on the street without a home.

(PETA)

Street life for domesticated cats can be miserable. In addition to the spread of diseases that can prematurely end their lives, they face starvation, dehydration, and a lack of shelter from the elements. They are constantly in a fight to survive. Even feral cats tend to rely on humans for food and water. They’re still domesticated and are not native wild animals. The number of street cats can be decreased through Trap, Neuter, Return efforts that sterilize feral cats to prevent them from breeding.

12. There are over 600 million cats in the world today, including pet, stray, and feral cats.

(World Atlas)

Out of those 600 million, approximately 373 million are kept as pets. This number can vary because of the difficulty in tracking feral cats around the world.

Cat Health Statistics

13. The average domestic indoor cat’s lifespan is 10–15 years.

(PetMD)

Cats that spend a great deal of unsupervised time outdoors have their life expectancy cut in half, typically only living around 7 years. Strictly indoor cats can live until they are 14 or 15 in relatively good health. Cats that live outside usually only live 2–4 years.

14. Heart disease is the leading cause of sudden death in cats.

(Pet Health Network)

Heart disease in cats is usually caused by feline cardiomyopathy or heartworm disease. These conditions don’t always show warning signs, and cats can suddenly collapse without much that can be done to save them. To keep your cat as healthy as possible, feed them a healthy diet and visit the vet regularly for checkups.

15. Cats spend up to 50% of their day grooming themselves.

(Cornell)

Cats are fastidious groomers and like to stay clean. This can also mean they experience hairballs too. Grooming is normal unless you see signs of hair loss. If bald patches or skin lesions occur, contact your vet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cats

How often should cats visit the veterinarian?

Ideally, your cat should see the vet every 6–12 months. Your vet will want to see your kitten more regularly for the proper vaccination protocols and parasite treatments. Adult cats should receive preventative care through exams, parasite treatments, and bloodwork. Senior cats should see the vet twice a year to keep them in good health. If any health conditions should arise during any stage of your cat’s life, regular vet visits to monitor your cat’s health are the way to diagnose and treat them as soon as possible. (AAHA)

How many kittens do unaltered cats produce?

Unspayed and unneutered cats can produce thousands of kittens in their lifetimes. This adds to the overpopulation of cats and the number of those that are euthanized each year simply because there are not enough homes for them all. If one female and one male cat mate twice a year and produce 2.8 kittens with each litter, in 8 years, they and their offspring will have created 2,072,514 cats. To reduce the number of homeless cats, make sure to have your own cat spayed or neutered as soon as possible before they start to create litters. (North Shore Animal League)

Why can’t domestic cats roar like large, wild cats?

Only lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars can roar. Instead of an epihyal bone in their voice boxes, they have ligaments. These ligaments stretch, helping the cats create a larger sound passage with pitch variation. As the ligament stretches further, the sound emitting from the cat becomes lower. Interestingly, cats can either purr or roar. This means roaring cats can’t purr and purring cats can’t roar. (Discover Wildlife)

What does it mean when a cat is in heat?

Only female cats go into heat. This refers to her estrous cycle, a period of time that lasts about 4–6 days when she will be receptive to mating with a male cat. During this time, she may become very affectionate, pace, yowl, and secrete vaginal fluid to try to attract a male. At any opportunity, she will try to escape through an open door or window to find a male cat, so she will have to be watched carefully. The heat cycle will repeat every 2 weeks. The way to stop a cat from having heat cycles is to have her spayed. (Wild Animal Park)

Can cats be vegans?

Cats are obligate carnivores. This means they require meat from animal sources in their diet to survive. Meat products make up the majority of all commercial cat food to provide pet cats with the nutrition that they need to stay healthy. Some of the nutrients that cats need can’t be made naturally in their bodies or obtained through plant matter. Taurine, vitamin A, and other amino acids are necessary for their health and must be obtained through their diet. If cats don’t eat meat in their diet, they could become lethargic, have convulsions, develop a weakened immune system, and go blind before eventually dying from lack of nutrition. Cats cannot be vegetarians or vegans, even if their owners are. (Island Pet Vet)

Conclusion

Cat owners know that their feline friends are just as lovable and important as any other pets. If you’re new to cat ownership or are considering adding a cat to your household, we hope that these statistics have answered a few of your questions and have helped you decide on the right pet for you.

You may also be interested in:

• 19 UK Cat Statistics & Facts All Cat Lovers Should Know
• 16 Cat Ownership Statistics

Featured Image Credit: Elisa Putti, Shutterstock

The post 15 Cat Statistics & Facts All Cat Lovers Should Know (2024 Update) by Jessica Rossetti appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.

Ever since they were first attracted to grain stores, cats have evolved to coexist happily alongside humans and in their homes. While most modern cats are domestic pets rarely required to deter grain-stealing rodents, our love affair with them has continued. The UK, like virtually all countries in the world, has a large population of cats, between 10–12 million, according to various estimates, with the most commonly cited reasons for ownership being that they bring happiness and reduce anxiety levels.

However, while the cat is well-loved in the UK, there is a considerable problem with strays and abandoned cats, with population surveys suggesting that a quarter of a million urban cats do not have a home.

Read on for 17 statistics and facts about cats in the UK, including ownership and welfare statistics.

Top 17 UK Cat Statistics

1. There are 11 million cats in the UK.
2. 26% of households own a cat.
3. Out of all of the UK, Welsh households have the highest percentage of cat ownership at 29%.
4. The average cat owner has 1.5 cats.
5. 24% of cat owners acquired their cats during the COVID pandemic.
6. More than half of cat owners got their cats for companionship and to reduce stress.
7. 63% of UK cats are moggies.
8. The Lykoi is the UK’s most expensive cat breed, costing £1,300 for a kitten.
9. There are 40 recognized cat breeds in the UK.
10. The cat breed with the most pedigree registrations is the British Shorthair.
11. The average life expectancy of a cat is around 14 years, but some can live into their 20s.
12. A single cat can be responsible for 20,000 descendents in just 5 years.
13. 97% of owned cats are neutered by the time they are 11 years old.
14. Owners should expect to pay at least £70 per month for each cat they own.
15. Approximately 1 in 10 UK cats are indoor cats.
16. There are approximately a quarter of a million stray cats living in urban areas.
17. Approximately 150,000 cats end up in shelters and rescue centres every year.

Cat Ownership Statistics

1. There are 11 million cats in the UK.

(Statista 1)

It is a bit hard to accurately state how many cats currently reside in the UK. There is no official register of cat numbers, and there are believed to be a quarter of a million or more stray cats that are difficult to count. However, according to some figures, there could be as many as 11 million cats in the country.

2. 26% of households own a cat.

(Cats Protection 1)

There are an estimated 27.8 million households in the UK, and just over 1 in 4 own at least one cat. The population of cats owned in the UK increased by 600,000 in 2021 when compared to 2020. This 5% increase is likely a result of COVID lockdowns when people found they had more time to look after pets and purchased or adopted new animals. In 2020, just 23% of households owned one or more cats.

3. Out of all of the UK, Welsh households have the highest percentage of cat ownership at 29%.

(Cats Protection 2)

The Welsh sure do love cats! A poll done in 2023 shows that almost 30% of Welsh households own at least one cat, jumping from 28% in 2022. England places second, with 26%, then Scotland with 22%. 21% of Northern Ireland’s population own at least one cat as well, a decrease from 26% in 2022.

4. The average cat owner has 1.5 cats.

(Cats Protection 3)

The average cat-owning home has nearly 1.5 cats. This indicates that many cat owners choose to have two or more cats rather than just one.

5. 24% of cat owners acquired their cats during the COVID pandemic.

(PDSA)

While there are many different reasons people choose to own cats, some of the most commonly given reasons are to reduce loneliness and to reduce stress. During the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lockdowns, loneliness and anxiety were major concerns for a lot of people. Roughly 24% of current cat owners say that they acquired their cats during the pandemic meaning 5.4 million pets have been acquired since March 2020.

6. More than half of cat owners got their cats for companionship and to reduce stress.

(Statista 2)

Stress reduction and companionship are important reasons for getting an animal companion, whether it be a cat, dog, or other pet. More than half of all cat owners say that they got their cat to reduce stress and anxiety and for companionship.

Cat Breed Statistics

7. 63% of UK cats are moggies.

(Cats Protection 4)

“Moggie” is the term given to a cat that is genetically made up of three or more distinct breeds, usually called Domestic Shorthair Cats. Moggies tend to be cheaper to buy and cheaper to insure, and there are many more of them available than pedigree cats. As a result, nearly two-thirds, or 63%, of cats owned in the UK are moggies.

8. The Lykoi is the UK’s most expensive cat breed, costing £1,300 for a kitten

(Scotsman)

Although moggies are the most common type of cat, pedigree breed ownership is on the rise, although the cost of buying a pedigree is often seen as an obstacle to owning one. This is especially true of certain rare and unique breeds. The Lykoi is the most expensive breed in the UK and, depending on lineage and breeder, can cost £1,300 for a single kitten.

9. There are 40 recognized cat breeds in the UK.

(GCCF)

The Lykoi might be the most expensive breed, but all pedigrees tend to cost more than a moggie. In total, the General Council of Cat Fanciers (GCCF), which is the official registry of cats and cat breeders in the UK, recognizes 40 individual breeds. This is quite a low figure, with the International Cat Association recognizing 73 standard breeds.

10. The cat breed with the most pedigree registrations is the British Shorthair.

(GCCF)

The breed with the most pedigree registrations, according to the GCCF, is the British Shorthair. The British Shorthair is one of the oldest recognized breeds of cat, having been introduced to the country by the Romans. It has a soft coat, round body, and large eyes. It is sometimes referred to as a living teddy bear.

Cat Welfare

11. The average life expectancy of a cat is around 14 years, but some can live into their 20s.

(RVC)

Cats can share our lives and homes for many a year, and while it is always heartbreaking to lose a feline companion, it may be heartening to learn that while the average life expectancy of a cat is about 14 years, some live into their early 20s. Some of the factors that determine how long a cat is likely to live include whether they are neutered, whether they are indoor or outdoor cats, and how well cared for they are.

12. A single cat can be responsible for 20,000 descendents in just 5 years.

(Cats Protection 5)

There is a considerable population of stray cats in the UK, and part of the reason for this is that cats are prolific breeders. Female cats can start to breed from the age of 4 months old and can have two seasons a year. While an average litter consists of four or five kittens, some litters consist of as many as 12 kittens. A single unneutered female cat can have as many as 18 kittens a year (although this number is usually smaller), which means a single cat could have hundreds of offspring, with each of these having the potential to have hundreds more. As you can imagine, these numbers add up quickly.

13. 97% of owned cats are neutered by the time they are 11 years old.

(National Library of Medicine)

Neutering is the single most effective way to reduce the number of stray cats on the streets because it prevents unwanted litters. It should be done before or when a cat reaches 4 months of age because this is when they reach sexual maturity. Estimates suggest that 97% of cats are neutered by the time they hit 11 years old, which is a high figure, but it also means that many cats are still intact at a young age, meaning they’re contributing to the overpopulation of strays and ferals.

14. Owners should expect to pay at least £70 per month for each cat they own.

(PDSA 2)

There are lots of good reasons to own a cat, including companionship and anxiety reduction, but before buying or adopting a cat, potential owners need to consider the ramifications of owning a feline companion that can live up to 20 years or more. A cat will typically cost at least £70 a month, so a cat that lives to be 15 years old will cost its owner more than £12,000 in total.

15. Approximately 1 in 10 UK cats are indoor cats.

(Blue Cross UK)

There is some debate over whether cats are better kept as indoor cats or are allowed some time outdoors. On the one hand, they do benefit from being able to explore the outside world, and they get more exercise. However, letting a cat outside exposes them to more threats and potential dangers, including traffic and even humans. In the UK, it is common for cats to be kept as outdoor cats, with only 10% being kept solely as indoor cats.

Stray & Abandoned Cats

16. There are approximately a quarter of a million stray cats living in urban areas.

(Nature)

As well as pet cats, there are feral cats and stray cats. Feral cats are not socialised with people, and they tend to live on or near farms or other sources of food. They have never been owned. Stray cats are those that have been socialised and have typically been owned and abandoned. There are estimated to be 250,000 stray cats living in urban areas around the country.

17. Approximately 150,000 cats end up in shelters & rescue centres every year.

(National Library of Medicine 2)

Despite the efforts of organisations like Cats Protection and the RSPCA, there is still a large number of cats that are abandoned or given over to shelters and rescue centres. As the country comes out of lockdown and people head back to the office and other venues to work, it is likely that the number increases, but these effects have not yet been measured. It has recently been estimated that 150,000 cats a year were handed to shelters and rescues.

Frequently Asked Questions About UK Cats

What Is the Friendliest Cat Breed?

Friendliness and other cat characteristics are primarily determined by the individual cat, as well as factors like socialisation and how often the cat was handled as a kitten, so it is impossible to say whether a cat will be friendly or not based on its breed. However, some breeds do have the potential to be more friendly than others. The Ragdoll, for example, is so named because it goes completely limp like a doll when it is handled, and it loves nothing more than love and attention from its humans. (Purina)

How Much Does Neutering Cost?

Neutering is the process of removing a cat’s reproductive organs to prevent that cat from reproducing. As well as preventing unwanted pregnancies, it can also prevent some cancers and other illnesses and is considered, by many vets and feline experts, to be one of the most important things a cat owner can do. Cost varies according to the gender of the cat and even region, but you should expect to pay between £50 and £100. (Cats Protection 6)

When Should a Cat Be Neutered?

Cats reach sexual maturity at the age of 4 months, and it is advised that the cat be neutered by the time they reach this age. Doing so can also help prevent males from spraying and may prevent unwanted behavioural problems in male and female cats.

How Many UK Cats Are Microchipped?

Microchipping a cat means that it can be reunited with its owner in the event that the cat gets lost or goes missing. The process can be completed by vets, and some charities offer reduced-cost microchipping in certain circumstances. Approximately a quarter of cats in the UK do not have a microchip, so 75% are chipped. (UK Government)

Is It Law to Have Cats Microchipped?

Thanks to a new law passed, starting June 10, 2024, all cats in the UK are required to have a microchip and be registered on a database by the time they reach 20 weeks old. This applies to both dogs and cats, and if you don’t follow the law, you could be fined up to £500. (UK Government 2)

Conclusion

Cats make great companions and are kept as loving pets by millions of people in the UK, with moggies being the most popular type of cat and the British Shorthair the most popular pedigree breed. Despite the nation’s love of cats, however, there is still a serious problem with stray and abandoned cats. Neutering and microchipping can help prevent and tackle these problems, and the number of cats that are neutered and chipped is increasing. Thankfully, laws have been recently put in place to boost these numbers even more.

See Also: 

• 14 Canada Cat Statistics
• 14 Cat Overpopulation Statistics

The post 17 UK Cat Statistics & Facts All Cat Lovers Should Know (2024 Update) by Christian Adams appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.

Cats were introduced to Australia in the late 18^th century when they were brought over on the first fleet. Since then, they have spread rapidly and now cover most of mainland Australia, with numbers increasing on a lot of the major islands and territories. As well as a population of approximately 5 million pet cats, Australia is believed to have another 5 million stray and feral cats, with most of these considered pests due to the number of indigenous wild animals that they kill.

According to some estimates, a single feral cat kills around 800 wild animals a year, and the problem is so big that Australia has the most extinctions as a result of feline predation anywhere in the world.

Below are statistics related to cats in Australia, including information on pet cats and the feral and wild cat populations.

Australia Cat Statistics

1. Including feral and stray cats, there are approximately 10 million felines in Australia.
2. There are cats across 99.9% of mainland Australia.
3. 69% of Australian households own pets.
4. A third of Australian households own cats.
5. There are 5.3 million cats living in 3.3 million homes.
6. The initial cost of getting a cat is between AUS $1,150 and $3,570.
7. 11% of pet cats cost owners more than AUS $1,000 to buy.
8. Cat owners should expect to spend AUS $17,000 over the cat’s lifetime.
9. Food is the largest annual bill for cat owners and accounts for 51% of annual spend.
10. Gastrointestinal disease is the most common ailment in cats, requiring a vet visit.
11. Luna is the most popular name for both cats and dogs.
12. Feral cat numbers in the bush range from 1.4 million to 5.6 million, depending on the time of year.
13. There are 0.7 million feral cats in urban areas.
14. Cats kill more than 2 billion animals a year in Australia.
15. A single feral cat kills, on average, 390 mammals, 225 reptiles, and 130 birds, every year.
16. Australia has the highest number of species of wild animals made extinct by cats.
17. 30% of cat owners got their pets from shelters and rescues.

Cats

1. Including feral and stray cats, there are approximately 10 million felines in Australia.

(Invasives)

Cats may not have been introduced to Australia until the 18^th century, but their prolific breeding and adaptability have seen their numbers swell considerably. Although it is impossible to gain an exact figure, it is believed there are approximately 10 million cats in Australia, with approximately half of these being pet cats and the other half being feral or stray cats.

Australia does have a feral and stray cat population problem, and ferals are considered pests because of the number of indigenous animals they kill.

2. There are cats across 99.9% of mainland Australia.

(Invasives)

Cats are now found in 99.9% of mainland Australia, including pet and feral felines. They are highly adaptable creatures, able to predate any small animals. They also wander, and this combination means they have spread across territories that might seem uninhabitable or inhospitable for life.

And, considering a single female cat can lead to hundreds of kittens, it is little wonder they have spread across the country.

3. 69% of Australian households own pets.

(Animal Medicine Australia)

Australia is a nation of pet lovers with 69% of households owning pets of some sort. The species with the highest population is fish, while dogs are the animals that are found in most homes. Cats are the second most popular pet, in terms of household reach.

The number of pets rose between 2020 and 2022, although changes in working habits and the cost-of-living crisis mean that many new pet owners are struggling to keep and care for their new pets.

4. A third of Australian households own cats.

(Animal Medicine Australia)

Although Australia does have a problem with strays and ferals, not all cats in the country are homeless. In fact, Australia has a high rate of ownership of companion cats with a third of all households owning at least one cat.

Cat owners are more likely to keep multiple cats than dog owners are to keep multiple dogs.

Cat Ownership

5. There are 5.3 million cats living in 3.3 million homes.

(Pet Memorial Australia 1)

The 5.3 million population of pet cats live in 3.3 million homes, which means that the average cat owner has 1.6 cats. In contrast, 6.3 million dogs live in 4.8 million homes, so the average dog owner keeps 1.31 dogs.

Fish owners keep 9.2 fish and small mammal owners keep 2.4 small mammals each, on average.

6. The initial cost of getting a cat is between AUS $1,150 and $3,570.

(Pet Memorial Australia 2)

When it comes to acquiring pet cats in Australia, the purchase or adoption fee is only a portion of what new owners need to pay. They also need to pay for starting supplies like beds and food. In most cases, owners also pay for neutering or spaying, as well as chipping and more.

Depending on the purchase cost of the cat, the initial fee to get a cat ranges from $1,150 and $3,570.

7. 11% of pet cats cost owners more than AUS $1,000 to buy.

(Animal Medicine Australia)

The pandemic saw the cost of buying cats rise dramatically. Today, more than one in ten buyers pay more than $1,000 for their cats.

Adopting a cat typically costs a couple of hundred dollars and not only do adopters spend less money on the purchase of the cat, but most rescues and shelters ensure that cats are neutered or spayed, have had their vaccines, and are microchipped before they leave for their new home. This can save the new owner hundreds more dollars.

8. Cat owners should expect to spend AUS $17,000 over the cat’s lifetime.

(Pet Memorial Australia 2)

Although the first year of owning a cat is usually the most expensive, because of the cost of buying the cat and early supplies, it still only makes up a fraction of what the cat will cost over its life. Owners should budget around $1,000 per year, with the average cat costing $17,000 over a 20-year life.

Insurance can help protect against the unexpected financial cost of injury or illness, but this isn’t the biggest expense for most cat owners.

9. Food is the largest annual bill for cat owners and accounts for 51% of annual spend.

(Pet Food Industry)

The largest expense for cat owners is food. Considering all pets, 51% of annual expenditure on those pets is spent on food.

Cats are obligate carnivores which means their food needs to consist primarily of meat and animal products, although a lot of foods do contain plant ingredients and are fortified with vitamins and minerals to help ensure a well-rounded and nutritionally balanced diet.

10. Gastrointestinal disease is the most common ailment in cats, requiring a vet visit.

(Pet Sure)

Vet and health costs can vary dramatically over the life of a cat. Some years, a cat may not need any treatment so costs will only include vaccinations and check-ups. But, if a cat gets ill, the costs can quickly add up.

The most common reason for cats to be taken to the vet is for gastrointestinal disease. Internal parasites, constipation, food allergies, and hairballs are common causes of GI disease, but another possible cause is cancer, so it is important that a cat with stomach issues is seen by a vet.

11. Luna is the most popular name for both cats and dogs.

(Pet Sure)

There are certain names that are always popular with pet owners, and one name, in particular, stands out for owners of both species. Luna has been listed as the most popular name for pet cats, and also for pet dogs. The word lunar means relating to the moon, but its popularity may also stem from Luna Lovegood’s character in Harry Potter.

Stray and Feral Cats

12. Feral cat numbers in the bush range from 1.4 million to 5.6 million, depending on the time of year.

(Pest Smart)

Cats will travel considerable distances, either for food or because of poor environmental conditions. As such, the number of feral cats found in the bush can vary drastically, from around 1.4 million when the area is flooded, to as much as 5.6 million when conditions are considered ideal.

When the feral population leaves the bush, it likely moves into urban or semi-urban areas, although some do get trapped and perish.

13. There are 0.7 million feral cats in urban areas.

(Pest Smart)

Feral cats are considered to be those that do not and have never had a home and live in rural areas. Cats that live in urban areas and do not have a home are considered stray.

Regardless of definition, there are believed to be around 700,000 homeless cats living in urban areas. Some cats choose to live in towns and cities because of the proximity to food and because they are not accustomed to living in the wild.

14. Cats kill more than 2 billion animals a year in Australia.

(Invasives)

One of the reasons feral cats are considered pests in Australia is because of the number of wild animals they kill. On average, the Australian cat population is believed to kill more than 2 billion wild animals every single year. The figure includes 1 million mammals, 400,000 birds, 600,000 reptiles, and nearly 100,000 frogs.

As a result of these numbers, regions across Australia have introduced measures to control feral cat populations, which include trapping and shooting.

15. A single feral cat kills, on average, 390 mammals, 225 reptiles, and 130 birds, every year.

(Smithsonian Mag)

The above figure, and the estimated feral cat population, mean that a single feral cat kills 390 mammals, 295 reptiles, and 130 birds every single year. That is equivalent to more than 2 animals every 24 hours.

16. Australia has the highest number of species of wild animals made extinct by cats.

(Smithsonian Mag)

The government released a report in 2021 stating that cats are the biggest cause of the extinction of land mammals in Australia. They claim that 34 species have been completely eradicated by the cat population and that dozens more are under serious threat as a result of cats.

At the time, the report suggested that a successful trial of exclosures be expanded. An exclosure is an area built to contain wildlife and to prevent unwanted animals, like cats and foxes, from getting in.

17. 30% of cat owners got their pets from shelters and rescues.

(Statista)

There is a massive overpopulation problem in rescues and shelters, too, and a study a few years ago found that approximately 50,000 cats a year were being euthanized despite being young and otherwise healthy. Owners are encouraged to adopt cats, where possible.

It helps keep the homeless population down and costs less. Approximately 30% of owners got their cats from centres, but 44% of owners still got their cats from breeders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When were cats introduced to Australia?

Cats were first introduced to Australia in 1788 when they were brought over on the First Fleet. It is estimated that it took around 70 years before they spread across the whole continent.

Because the local wildlife had never faced cats before, they were not equipped to deal with these predators, meaning that local wildlife was ill-equipped to deal with the feline threat. The cats had plentiful prey, and the prey had minimal defence.

(Invasives)

Should you keep your cat indoors?

Proponents of keeping cats indoors state that it is better for wildlife and for the cats themselves. Cats are insatiable predators, and the feline population of Australia kills billions of wild animals every year.

Keeping cats indoors can help control this, although it is likely that most predation is undertaken by feral and stray cats, rather than pet cats. While cats are skilled predators, they are also prey to some larger animals, while the feral population of cats can pass on illnesses and diseases to pet cats that are let out.

How much do cats cost?

Costs do vary. Adopting a cat can cost as little as a couple of hundred dollars, although even adoption fees vary from centre to centre. In contrast, buying a cat typically costs more with some pedigree breeds costing thousands of dollars. What’s more, buying means that the new owner will be responsible for the cost of neutering or spaying, as well as initial vaccines and other early costs.

When adopting a cat, the adoption centre will usually cover these costs. Over its lifetime, the source of the cat doesn’t matter, and it costs an estimated $900 a year or $17,000 over the 20-year lifetime of a cat. These costs include food, veterinary bills, and other costs.

Conclusion

Cats are the second most popular pet in Australia, but feral and stray cats pose a real problem. Since their introduction at the end of the 18^th Century, they are believed to have caused the extinction of dozens of wild animal species and have put dozens more at risk of following suit.

Steps are being taken by local governments and welfare groups to curb the population of feral cats and help protect wildlife, but with a population of as many as nearly 6 million, it is a growing problem that is difficult to combat.

Featured Image Credit: Murat An, Shutterstock

The post 17 Australian Cat Statistics & Facts All Cat Lovers Should Know (2024 Update) by Matt Jackson appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.

Cats were first domesticated around 10,000 years ago, and since then they have become a regular part of our daily lives. Along with dogs, they are one of the most popular animal species to be kept as pets, and while they would have once been used to protect grain and food stores from vermin, today, they are as likely to be kept as household companions or family pets.

They are popular around the world, including in Canada, which is one of only a few countries that has a higher population of cats than dogs, helped by a sharp increase in the cat population between 2020 and 2022. However, like the rest of the world, Canada is facing a problem with an overpopulation of feral and stray cats, and also like the rest of the world, the cost-of-living crisis has affected the pet cat population in the country.

Below, we look at 17 statistics relating to cats in Canada, including information on pet cats as well as some figures relating to that feral population.

The 17 Canada Cat Statistics

1. There are 8.5 million pet cats in Canada, which makes them more popular than dogs.
2. The cat population in Canada rose 5% between 2020 and 2022.
3. 32% of Canadians consider themselves cat people.
4. The Ashera is the most expensive cat breed.
5. A new cat costs between CA$1,875 and $3,345 in the first year.
6. Cats cost between CA$80 and $200 per year to keep.
7. A third of pet owners said they have reduced other spending to ensure they meet their pets’ needs.
8. Cats go to the vet less often than dogs.
9. Around 4 in 5 cats are neutered or spayed.
10. Only 3% of pet owners in Canada have cat insurance.
11. A quarter of Canadian owners are willing to spend more on healthy cat food.
12. 2/3 of owners say they spend more on their cats than they used to.
13. A quarter of owners buy their cat food online.
14. The main reason given for not having a pet is not wanting the responsibility.
15. There could be as many as 4.2 million stray cats in Canada.
16. Some shelters have seen a 50% decrease in intakes since 2011.
17. Strays and outdoor cats kill approximately 200 million birds a year.

Cats

1. There are 8.5 million pet cats in Canada, which makes them more popular than dogs.

(Statista)

It is difficult to know the exact figures, but it is estimated that there are around 8.5 million pet cats in Canada. This is more than the estimated 7.9 million pet dogs. In most countries, dogs are more popular than cats, so Canada’s pet population figures are unusual.
There are many possible reasons why cats are more popular. Canada has very harsh winter weather, and while dogs still need regular walks, cats can be given the exercise they need indoors.

Generally, owners prefer cats to dogs because they are less dependent. They need food and stimulation, but they don’t need regular walks like dogs do. And cats typically cost less to keep than dogs, which might be another reason for their popularity.

2. The cat population in Canada rose 5% between 2020 and 2022.

(Global Pet Industry)

When Covid struck in 2020, and countries including Canada went into lockdowns, many people relied on their pets for company, companionship, and even exercise. As such, global pet populations rose during this time, and Canada was no different.
The pet cat population increased by 5% during 2020 and 2022, when the pandemic ended. Although the canine population also rose, it only rose by 2.8%, allowing the difference in population sizes to open up even further.

3. 32% of Canadians consider themselves cat people.

(Compare The Market)

Whether somebody is a cat person or a dog person is a commonly asked question. Dog people point to the companionship and the closeness that dogs offer, while cat people extol the virtues of feline independence, and the fact cats don’t need to be walked. Cats are also usually less expensive to keep than dogs, although this isn’t always necessarily the case.

In one survey, 32% of Canadians said they consider themselves to be cat people. However, despite the fact there are more pet cats in Canada than dogs, more respondents considered themselves dog people, with 50% of those asked stating such. 18% said they were neither.
Respondents were not allowed to say they liked both equally, and there is no reason that owners have to choose one over the other. Cats and dogs can coexist relatively peacefully in homes.

4. The Ashera is the most expensive cat breed.

(Spot Pet Insurance)

There are dozens of different cat breeds recognized by fanciers’ and breeders’ associations around the world. The Cat Fanciers’ Association, which is the official Canadian group, recognizes 40 pedigree breeds that can be entered in official shows and exhibitions. Different breeds not only have different appearances and physical characteristics, but depending on their scarcity and their popularity, they can have wildly different prices, too.

While moggies, which are mixed breeds consisting of two or more breeds, can be purchased for as little as $100, some of the most expensive breeds sell for much higher figures. The Ashera is considered the most expensive breed and costs between $300 and a staggering $150,000.

The Ashera is a descendant of the Leopard, mixed with the Serval and the domestic cat. It is incredibly rare Savannahs and Asheras are legal to own in Canada.

Cat Costs

5. A new cat costs between CA $1,875 and $3,345 in the first year

(Daily Hive)

Unless you pay $150,000 for one, the purchase price of a cat usually only represents a small fraction of the total lifetime cost of a cat. When you take into account the cost of neutering or spaying and buying all the equipment and accessories your puss will need, a new owner can expect to pay between $1,875 and $3,345 during the first year of owning a pet cat.

Adopting a cat can greatly reduce these costs. Not only does adopting cost less than buying, but adoption centres usually ensure that the cats they adopt out are spayed or neutered and have had their initial vaccinations and other health checks.

6. Cats cost between CA $80 and $200 per year to keep.

(Daily Hive)

The first year of owning a cat, or any pet, is typically the most expensive. Not only do owners have to pay adoption or breeder fees, but they also need to buy all the equipment and accessories. Spaying or neutering costs, as well as other healthcare costs, are also higher for kittens than for adult cats, and many of the costs are not covered by pet insurance.

Despite that, annual costs can still be higher than expected, thanks to the ongoing need for food, cat litter, vet checkups, and emergency costs. On average, it costs between $80 and $200 a year to keep a cat.

7. A third of pet owners said they have reduced other spending to ensure they meet their pets’ needs.

(Daily Hive)

The cost-of-living crisis has seen many people having to curb their expenditure on a range of items. Pet food costs have increased over the past few years, and in one survey a third of pet owners said they have had to reduce spending in other areas to ensure they meet the needs of their pets.

8. Cats go to the vet less often than dogs.

(Made In CA)

Cats do cost less to keep than dogs. They are smaller animals, on average, so they eat less food. They are also less likely to be involved in accidents, although outdoor cats do run the risk of being involved in road accidents or incidents involving wild animals.

Another reason cats typically cost less than dogs is that they do not have as many vet appointments. 78% of dogs go to the vet each year, compared to just 50% of cats.

9. Around 4 in 5 cats are neutered or spayed.

(Made In CA)

Spaying or neutering a cat can help reduce the risk of some cancers and certain other diseases and conditions. It also reduces your cat’s desire to stray, and it helps stop more cats from entering an already burgeoning feline population. 79%, or approximately four in five, cat owners have had their pets neutered or spayed.

Two-thirds of owners of spayed/neutered pets said they did it because they believe it to be an important investment.

10. Only 3% of pet owners in Canada have cat insurance.

(PHI Direct)

Pet insurance can help with unexpected costs associated with vet bills following accidents or if your cat is diagnosed with an unexpected illness. Depending on the policy, it can cover everything from tests and appointments to operations and follow-up procedures.
Despite the benefits of pet insurance, only 3% of Canadian pet owners say they have a pet insurance policy.

Cat Owners

11. A quarter of Canadian owners are willing to spend more on healthy cat food.

(Freedonia Group)

Nutrition is important to a cat’s ongoing health and well-being. Poor quality cat food may not provide the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that a cat needs. Good quality food not only meets nutritional values but provides additional benefits and is made from responsibly sourced, natural ingredients.

Although cost does not necessarily indicate value, the higher the quality of the ingredients, the more food is likely to cost. A quarter of cat owners said they are willing to spend more on cat food that is considered healthy.

12. 2/3 of owners say they spend more on their cats than they used to.

(Freedonia Group)

Cat food and other costs associated with owning cats have risen in the past couple of years. And, as costs have risen, so too has inflation, while salaries have not risen in line with inflation. The end result is that people have less disposable income.

13. A quarter of owners buy their cat food online.

(Freedonia Group)

One way that pet food purchases changed during the pandemic was that more people bought their food online. It was more convenient, and it meant that owners could stay at home and abide by government advice. Shopping online is considered more convenient, and it is easier to shop for bargains.

A quarter of cat owners now buy their food exclusively online, rather than visiting pet stores.

14. The main reason given for not having a pet is not wanting the responsibility.

(Made In CA)

Owning pets isn’t for everybody, and while a lot of owners appreciate the companionship and company that cats bring, many don’t want to be tied down.

58% of Canadians who do not own pets said they choose not to have pets because they don’t want the responsibility of pet ownership.

Strays and Ferals

15. There could be as many as 4.2 million stray cats in Canada.

(CWHC)

Like most other countries, Canada has a problem with stray and feral cats. These cats either used to have a home but have run away or were dumped by their owners, or they have never lived in a home and were born on the streets.

Although it is difficult to get an accurate figure of the size of the feral cat population, estimates suggest there could be as many as 4.2 million feral and stray cats in Canada.

16. Some shelters have seen a 50% decrease in intakes since 2011.

(CBC)

Although the stray and feral cat population is a problem, some shelters in Canada report a drop in the number of animals they have taken in when compared to 2011. Windsor/Essex County Humane Society reports a 50% drop in the number of stray cats it has taken in during this time.

Melanie Coulter, executive director of the shelter, said that they faced a crisis point in 2011 and she puts the drop down to spaying and neutering programs they have introduced in their clinics.

17. Strays and outdoor cats kill approximately 200 million birds a year.

(CBC)

One problem with a large feral cat community is that they predate birds, small mammals, and even reptiles. In some countries, the extinction of dozens of species is attributed to predation by the cat population.

In Canada, it is estimated that stray cats and outdoor cats kill around 200 million birds every year. This does include outdoor cats, which are pet cats that are allowed to roam outside their homes for at least part of the day. Owners who let their cats out can take steps to help prevent this problem, but a lot of cats will still find ways to kill small animals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Should you get your cat spayed or neutered?

Spaying and neutering can help reduce the risks of certain cancers and other diseases. It also helps prevent unwanted pregnancies which, in turn, helps control the growing population of feral and stray cats. It can even reduce the likelihood of a cat straying or roaming from the house and might prevent indoor spraying and other unwanted activities in the home.

Do cats need insurance?

It is not a legal requirement to have a cat insured, but cat insurance can protect against unexpected vet bills associated with accidents or illnesses. Insurance does not cover preventive healthcare, but it can cover the cost of tests, treatment, and follow-up procedures. Some policies even pay towards the cost of prescriptions and prescription foods.

Why do people give up cats?

There are lots of reasons people give up cats to shelters and rescues. Some people can no longer afford to keep their cats, especially during cost-of-living crises and financial problems. Some owners find that changes in personal circumstances leave them unable to care for or spend time with their cats.
And, in some cases, cats outlive their owners and there are no family members or friends able to take them on.

Are stray cats a problem in Canada?

There are as many as 4.2 million stray and feral cats in Canada. Some of these carry illnesses, and many have not been spayed or neutered. As well as potentially passing on diseases to domestic pet cats, stray cats can also cause unwanted pregnancies, may fight with house cats, and they also have to kill small animals to feed themselves.
Although most feral cats live in urban areas, some do live in cities, and while cat attacks are rare, they do happen.

Conclusion

Globally, cats are one of the most popular types of pets, typically second only in popularity to dogs. However, Canada is one of a few countries that has a higher population of pet cats than dogs. There are 8.5 million pet cats, compared to 7.9 million pet dogs, and this number rose sharply between 2020 and 2022, although the cost-of-living crisis means that the population is likely to have stabilized in the past year.
As well as this large population of pet cats, Canada is believed to have as many as 4.2 million stray and feral cats, which can pass on illnesses, cause unwanted pregnancies, and play havoc with local wildlife.

See Also: 

• What’s the Price of Having a Cat in Canada?

Featured Image Credit: IMG Stock Studio, Shutterstock

The post 17 Canada Cat Statistics & Facts All Cat Lovers Should Know (2024 Update) by Matt Jackson appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.

Cat allergies, and pet allergies in general, are one of the most common forms of allergy. They can cause symptoms including a runny nose and coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and rashes. They can also exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma, and while some cats are described as being hypoallergenic, all cats produce the protein Fel d1, which is actually the cause of allergic reactions, rather than the fur or hair of the cat.

Although exact figures are unclear, it is estimated that 10% of people in the US have pet allergies, with cat allergies being twice as common as dog allergies, and while these figures do vary around the world, it is believed that between 10% and 20% of the global population suffer some form of pet allergy.

The 13 Cat Allergy Statistics

1. 1 in 10 people in the US have pet allergies.
2. Pet allergies affect between 10% and 20% of the global population.
3. Pet allergy rates are increasing.
4. Allergic rhinitis affects more than a third of the population in Korea.
5. Cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies.
6. 35% of US households own at least one cat.
7. People aren’t actually allergic to cat fur.
8. Cats can indirectly cause a flare-up of allergies to pollen, mold, and other allergens.
9. There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic cat or dog.
10. Non-neutered males produce more Fel d1 than other cats.
11. Allergic symptoms include coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and rashes.
12. Children with pets are less likely to grow up allergic than those with no pets.
13. The longhaired Siberian cat is actually considered one of the better breeds for allergy sufferers.

Allergy Sufferers

1. 1 in 10 people in the US have pet allergies.

(WebMD)

The exact number of people with cat allergies is unknown. Many people suffer mildly and never report reactions, while some people who do not live with or come into regular contact with cats may not recognize that they have an allergy. However, it is estimated that approximately 1 in 10 people in the US alone have pet allergies, including to cats and dogs. More people suffer from cat allergies because the protein that causes the allergic reaction is so small that it hangs in the air and can remain in the local atmosphere much longer than the allergy-causing protein from dogs. This means that it is more easily breathed into the lungs, causing the immune system to misidentify it as a threat.

2. Pet allergies affect between 10% and 20% of the global population.

(NCBI)

Globally, the number of people who suffer from allergies is around the same, or slightly higher, as it is in the US. Again, figures are difficult to determine with any precision, but it is believed that between 10% and 20% of the global population suffers from pet allergies.

3. Pet allergy rates are increasing.

(NCBI)

It is estimated that allergic rhinitis costs the United States nearly $600 per employee per year in lost productivity, and pet allergies are the most common cause of lost productivity. Unfortunately, the figure is only likely to increase because new medications and treatments are not emerging as quickly as the rate of allergy prevalence.

4. Allergic rhinitis affects more than a third of the population in Korea.

(NCBI)

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies some element as being a threat to the body. It attempts to fight the allergen with common symptoms, including coughing and wheezing. Allergic rhinitis is when the inside of the nose becomes inflamed, and it usually occurs within minutes of the body being exposed to a particular allergen.

Most instances of allergic rhinitis are mild and can be treated easily, but other cases can be severe and very difficult to shake. It is a common symptom of cat allergies and occurs around the world. 37.6% of the population in Korea is reported to suffer from this problem.

5. Cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies.

(AAFA)

Pet allergies occur when the body’s immune system misidentifies a protein produced by the pet as a threat. It is possible to have an allergic reaction to any type of animal, although allergies to animals with fur and feathers are more common because these carry the protein that is more easily transferred to the sufferer.

Cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies, and this is likely explained by the fact that the protein produced by cats that causes allergic reactions is much smaller than that produced by dogs, so it is more likely to get into the lungs and cause a reaction.

6. 35% of US households own at least one cat.

(III)

Even if a person doesn’t own a cat themselves, there is still a strong chance that they will be exposed to the feline allergen. Cat hair, although not directly responsible for allergic reactions, is known to carry the protein that does cause allergies and can be present anywhere that cats go. More than one-third of households in the US own at least one cat, which means allergy sufferers could be exposed to cats when visiting friends and family or even if they are visited by neighborhood cats.

Causes

7. People aren’t actually allergic to cat fur.

(Litter Robot)

Although cat fur does transmit allergens from cats to people, it is not actually the fur that acts as an allergen. Cats produce several proteins that can act as allergens, but it is the Fel d1 protein that causes the vast majority of allergic reactions. Fel d1 can be transmitted via urine, saliva, sweat, and dander, all of which can be found in traces in cat fur.

8. Cats can indirectly cause a flare-up of allergies to pollen, mold, and other allergens.

(WebMD)

Catts can indirectly carry other allergens, which can cause an allergic reaction in owners who mistakenly believe they are allergic to their cats. Outdoor cats get pollen and mold on their fur, which is then carried into the house and transmitted to owners. Indoor cats might pick up dust and mold and agitate allergens in the air.

Symptoms and Solutions

9. There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic cat or dog.

(AAFA)

Many breeds of cat and dog are often described as being hypoallergenic, but all breeds of cat produce the Fel d1 protein, so no breed is truly non-allergenic. Typically, breeds that are described as being hypoallergenic are those that shed less or that do not have as much fur because they are less likely to transmit allergens to people.

10. Non-neutered males produce more Fel d1 than other cats.

(Litter Robot)

Many sufferers still choose to live with cats. In this case, they should look for cats that produce less Fel d1 and avoid those that produce more of the protein. Non-neutered males are known to produce more of the protein, so if you do suffer from allergies but still want a feline friend, you may be better looking for neutered males or female cats.

11. Allergic symptoms include coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and rashes.

(WebMD)

Allergic reactions can vary in severity, but common symptoms include coughing and sneezing, wheezing, and itchy eyes. Allergies may also exacerbate conditions like asthma and, especially if a sufferer comes into local contact with an allergen, rashes may present in the affected areas. These symptoms are common to many other health problems, however, which means that diagnosing pet allergies can prove tricky and will usually involve a skin spot test or needle test.

12. Children with pets are less likely to grow up allergic than those with no pets.

(JAMA Network)

Typically, allergy sufferers are encouraged to avoid contact with allergens, in order to avoid allergic reactions, but recent studies show that desensitization at a young age may help to reduce the chances of developing allergies later in life. Young children that have two or more pets before they reach 12 months old are much less likely to suffer allergies to those animals later in life, when compared to children that had no cat or dog exposure during these early months.

13. The longhaired Siberian cat is actually considered one of the better breeds for allergy sufferers.

(Trusens)

Even though there is no non-allergic cat breed, there are some that are considered better for allergy sufferers. Generally, sufferers are encouraged to avoid non-neutered males and longhaired cats that shed frequently because, while the fur itself is not the allergen that causes problems, it does transmit the Fel d1 protein that is the cause of allergies. However, the Siberian, which is known for having very long hair is considered one of the best breeds for allergy suffers because it produces less Fel d1 than other breeds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Allergies

Can People Allergic to Cats Own a Cat?

A cat allergy doesn’t automatically mean that you are unable to own a cat. If you have mild symptoms, it may be possible to find a less allergenic cat and manage symptoms on a daily basis. However, bear in mind that the closer you get to your cat, the more likely you will ingest the allergens that it produces, and it may affect the bond you form with your cat.

Is There a Vaccine for Cat Allergies?

Currently, there is no vaccine that can be given to humans to eliminate or even reduce allergic reactions to cats or other allergens. Similarly, there is no vaccine that can be given to cats to reduce the proteins that they produce, although work is being done on a cat vaccine that does reduce Fel d1. (Philadelphia Enquirer)

Can Cat Allergies Go Away?

Cat allergies, like any allergies, can diminish over time, although, similarly, they can also worsen. Regular exposure to an allergen may lead to some desensitization, but this same exposure will initially cause allergic reactions and may make the allergy worse over time.

Conclusion

Cat allergies are very common, with approximately 10% of the US population suffering from pet allergies of some sort and cat allergies being twice as common as dog allergies. Symptoms do vary in severity and can include coughing and sneezing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. There are no known vaccines or cures for allergies, but while we are typically encouraged to stay away from allergens that negatively affect us, research indicates that exposing young children under the age of 12 months to cats and dogs may actually reduce the likelihood of future allergies.

Featured Image Credit: LightField Studios, Shutterstock

The post How Many People Are Allergic to Cats? 13 Interesting Statistics by Christian Adams appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.

There are a myriad of reasons cats make good pets. They are good for mental health, keep us company, and they can be fun and loving. However, with approximately 60 million pet cats in the US alone, and considering their carnivorous feeding requirements, as well as the amount of waste they produce, it is clear that they have some impact on the environment, both locally and globally.

As well as the energy consumption and greenhouse gases created during food production, cats are also responsible for the predation of endemic animal species. According to some sources, they have been directly involved in the extinction of several dozen species, although it is likely that stray, feral, and unowned cats are the primary culprits of these extinctions.

Below are 12 statistics related to cats and their impact on the environment. Few studies of these types are conducted regularly, so some of the facts are a little older. And cat and dog food are usually grouped together for calculations, so some of the facts relate to these combined figures.

The 12 Cats and the Environment Statistics

1. There are more than 60 million pet cats in the US.
2. Around 8.65 million tons of animal and plant-based ingredients are used in pet food each year.
3. Approximately 12% of the waste in landfills is pet waste.
4. 3.6 million tons of cat waste and 2 million tons of litter end up in landfills every year.
5. Pet food packaging produces 300 million pounds of plastic waste a year in the US.
6. 99% of US pet food packaging is thrown away and not recycled.
7. Dog and cat diets are responsible for 25-30% of the environmental impact of animal production in the US.
8. Pet food production releases approximately 64 million tonnes of greenhouse gases.
9. As much energy is used to create US cat and dog food as is used by the human population of France.
10. Some estimates suggest cats kill 2.4 billion birds every year in the US.
11. Cats kill up to 20 billion mammals each year.
12. Cats have had a hand in the extinction of as many as 63 species globally.

General Statistics

1. There are more than 60 million pet cats in the US.

(AVMA)

Cats were first domesticated 10,000 to 12,000 years ago and since then they have been kept to help keep away vermin, and also as companion pets. Dogs are often said to be man’s best friend but pet cats come a close second with statistics showing there are around 60.2 to 62 million pet cats in the USA.

Cats are preferred to dogs by some owners because they are deemed to be more independent. They have a long lifespan, typically living around 15 years or more and can also be good for mental health, providing companionship and even support.

2. Around 8.65 million tons of animal and plant-based ingredients are used in pet food each year.

(AFIA)

Cats are obligate carnivores.Their gastrointestinal tracts and metabolism is adapted to eating meat. They can eat some plant material but they can’t digest it as well and require essential nutrients like taurine that are only found from animal sources. This means cat food for domestic cats should get a majority of its nutrients from meat sources.

Dogs, on the other hand, are omnivores and can process ingredients from both sources. Combined, approximately 8.65 million tons of animal and plant-based ingredients are consumed as pet food every year, in the US.

Waste

3. Approximately 12% of the waste in is pet waste.

(EPWN)

One of the ways that cats, and pets in general, impact the environment, is the waste they produce. Waste from cats comes in the form of litter, as well as its contents. It is estimated that 12% of all landfill waste is pet waste.

4. 3.6 million tons of cat waste and 2 million tons of litter end up in landfills every year.

(EPWN)

In total, 3.6 million tons of cat waste, as well as 2 million tons of disposed cat litter, end up in landfills. Waste includes excrement, as well as urine, both of which can cause problems if they escape into local water sources or the ground. Cat poop can’t be recycled and while it can be composted, the compost shouldn’t be used for vegetables or in any location where it might leach into soil.

When it comes to the litter itself, it is environmentally better to choose a litter that is made from plant-based resources, such as recycled wood or paper.

5. Pet food packaging produces around 300 million pounds of plastic waste a year in the US.

(Pet Food Processing)

Although litter is a big problem in landfills, it is difficult to avoid. Cats will always need to pee and poop. One problem that we can do something about is the packaging that cat food and cat treats come in. An estimated 300 million pounds of plastic waste is produced every year in the US from pet food packaging alone. Plastic is a major problem when it comes to environmental damage.

Plastic pollution is a problem globally, it leaks into aquatic ecosystems and pollutes lakes, rivers and seas. It can alter habitats and natural processes and reduce an ecosystem’s ability to deal with climate change.

6. 99% of US pet food packaging is thrown away and not recycled.

(Pet Food Processing)

But it isn’t just the plastic in pet food packaging that poses problems. Wax-coated and plastic-coated cardboard materials are too difficult to recycle and, as such, these are typically thrown away and not reused. It is estimated that 99% of all pet food packaging is simply thrown away and not recycled.

While consumers do bear some of the responsibility for this, opting to throw recyclable materials in with their general waste, producers need to make more effort to use more easily recyclable materials.

Energy Usage and Environmental Impact

7. Dog and cat diets are responsible for 25-30% of the environmental impact of animal production in the US.

(PLOS ONE)

Through their diet, dogs and cats constitute about 25-30% of the environmental impacts from animal production. This includes factors like land use, water consumption and use, and fossil fuel consumption.

8. Pet food production releases up to 64 million tons of greenhouse gases.

(All About Feed)

Pet food production is very energy intensive, this includes both wet and dried foods.

The production of pet food, including cat food, is responsible for the production of up to 64 million tons of greenhouse gases including methane and nitrous oxide.

9. As much energy is used to create US cat and dog food as is used by the human population of France.

(TED)

Meat production is the single biggest producer of greenhouse gas emissions, creating more than all forms of transport combined. And, when it comes to pets, the single biggest influence on the environment they have comes via the production of their food and treats. The energy produced to create food is measured in petajoules, and US dogs and cats alone are responsible for the consumption of 200 petajoules worth of food every single year.

This is approximately the same as the consumption of the entire human population of France.

Predation and Species Extinction

10. Some estimates suggest cats kill 2.4 billion birds every year in the US.

(ABC Birds)

It isn’t just the global environment, and greenhouse gases, that cats have an impact on. Cats are said to be responsible for the predation, or killing, of around 2.4 billion birds in the US every year. Obviously, indoor cats do not predate animals, and it is believed that stray, feral, and unowned cats are those that are responsible for most of these deaths.

One study on the effects of feline predation on Black Redstarts in Switzerland, which were thought to be particularly vulnerable to cat predation, showed that while cats reduced the productivity of the species by 12%, the rate of population increase was sufficient to maintain population numbers.

11. Cats kill up to 20 billion mammals each year.

(NCBI)

It isn’t just birds that cats kill, either. In fact, they kill more small mammals than they do birds, with estimates suggesting that they kill 6.9 to 20.7 billion mammals every year in the US. Again, it is unowned and free-roaming cats that are responsible for most of these deaths, but pet cats do also have an impact and the population of unowned cats is only so high because of the burgeoning population of pet felines. Research suggests that simple changes can reduce predation figures significantly.

Playing with cats for 10 minutes a day reduces their predation rate by 25% while changing to a high meat protein diet reduced this figure by 36%.

12. Cats have had a hand in the extinction of as many as 63 species globally.

(NCBI)

Cats, including domestic pet cats, hunt and kill birds and other small animals. According to some estimates, they have been directly involved, although not necessarily individually responsible, for the extinction of 63 species of bird, mammal and reptiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you stop cats from predating wild animals?

Although most predations of small animals are done by feral cats, some pet cats are also known for their hunting. To help prevent this, ensure your cat has a good diet that is high in meat protein, and introduce daily object play to help meet your cat’s hunting needs. You can also try putting a bell on your cat’s collar, although this can be detrimental if there are predators in the area.

The only real way to completely prevent cats from predating small animals, though, is to stop cats from going outside.

How should you dispose of cat litter?

Try and choose a biodegradable litter as this will biodegrade while in landfill. Scoop the poop and only get rid of the litter when it is urine soaked or during a deep clean. Put the used litter in a biodegradable plastic bag and tie it up, before putting it in with regular waste. Avoid flushing litter and if you do compost it, ensure that you don’t use the compost for vegetables or other edibles in your garden.

How can you minimize waste from cat food products?

Cats need to eat meat to be healthy and happy. Minimally processed cat food uses less energy in its production, but other than that, there isn’t a lot that can be done to reduce the environmental impact of meat consumption. One area you can improve on, though, is in the packaging of the food and, specifically, what is done with the waste.

Choose foods that use recyclable materials and ensure that you recycle them. Try to buy bigger packs with more content, rather than smaller packs, because you will use less waste overall.

Conclusion

Cats are one of the most popular pet species in the world, thanks to their independence and their often affectionate nature. However, for all their benefits, cats, like dogs, do have an impact on the environment. In particular, pet food production places a heavy burden on the environment, but some studies also suggest that outdoor cats can have a significant impact on more local environments due to their predation of small mammals and birds.

Featured Image Credit: aesthetica, Shutterstock

The post Cats’ Impact on the Environment: Vet-Verified Facts & Statistics by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.