Canadian cat population rises by 5% in 2 years

A new survey from the Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI) concludes that there are 16.4 million pets in the country in 2022.

The dog population reached 7.9 million in 2022 from 7.7 million in 2020 (+2.8%). Cat populations increased at a higher rate (+5%), from 8.1 million in 2020 to 8.5 million in 2022.

“Not surprisingly, the survey results confirm that pet ownership in Canada increased throughout the pandemic, with 60% of households reporting ownership of at least one cat or dog,” reads the survey.

Dr. Emily Bond, Programs Director for CAHI, said that this increase “comes as no surprise” since pets can provide “many benefits” for mental health. Including companionship and coping with stressful situations.

Vet visits

The data also revealed a shorter gap between the medicalization of dogs and cats. CAHI’s numbers show that the number of dogs that visited a veterinarian remained stable at 86%, while cats increased from 58% in 2020 to 61% in 2022.

The study also unveils that nearly 1 in 5 Canadian pet owners wanted or needed preventative care in the past 12 months but could not access it due to affordability or the inability to get an appointment, among other reasons.

“Despite these challenges, veterinary services remain highly valued,” said Colin Siren, Senior VP of market research firm Kynetec Canada.

The Canadian Animal Health Institute highlighted that despite Covid-19 playing in increasing owner interest in pet health, Canada is struggling with a shortage of veterinarians.