From 17.4 to 17.2 million pets: UK pet population trends in the past 2 years

While 16.2 million British households (57% of the total) owned 38 million pets in 2022, it is believed that last year, 17.2 million UK households (60% of the total) owned 36 million non-aquatic pets.

However, this number is still short of the 17.4 million UK households that owned pets in 2021.

New data from UK Pet Food, the trade body for the UK pet food industry, concludes that dog and cat ownership trends are consistent with last year’s survey.

It is believed that there were 13.5 million dogs in the country (in 36% of households) and 12.5 million cats (in 29% of households) last year.

Growth in aquatic pets

The data also noted a growth in the aquatic pet segment, with 21% of households owning a fish.

UK Pet Food reported that fish tanks were present in 15% of the UK households surveyed last year, with the number standing at 7 million. Additionally, there were 6 million outdoor ponds, representing 11% of surveyed households. 

More male pet parents

The research reveals that, over the past 4 years, 27% of men have adopted adult cats compared to 18% of women. This means around 1.5 million new men have welcomed adult cats into their homes, compared to 1 million women. 

Additionally, UK Pet Food says that there has been an appreciation for mature pets across all demographics for the first time since the pandemic’s puppy and kitten boom. 

The data reveals that 2.5 million households acquired adult cats last year, and adult dogs were welcomed into 2.1 million households. 

A strong emotional bond

Emotional benefits have led people strongly toward pet ownership, with a quarter of the respondents admitting they enjoy the time spent with their pets more than with their family members. 

Almost 4 in 10 pet parents in the UK agree that their pet contributes to their family’s mental health. 

The survey from UK Pet Food concludes that 50% of pet parents over 45 say they would be lonely without their furry companions. 

“Pets play a significant role in our homes; they help combat loneliness, and they can have a positive effect on our mental health,” admits Michael Bellingham, Chief Executive of UK Pet Food.