Why cats are becoming the number 1 pet in the UK

Cats are quietly taking over the UK, one purr at a time. While dogs still lead the pack, cats are catching up fast, especially in cities where space is tight and schedules are even tighter. So why are more Brits choosing whiskers over wagging tails? 

The latest stats on cat ownership in the UK 

As of 2025, and according to Statista there are around 11 to 12 million cats living in UK households. That means nearly 28% of homes now have a feline friend curled up on the sofa, or knocking things off shelves just because they can. Dogs still have a slight lead with 13 million, but the gap is closing faster than a cat chasing a red dot. 

In London, cats have already taken the lead. Around 61% of pet-owning households in the capital prefer cats over dogs. It’s official. The city belongs to the cats now. 

Quick highlights: 

• 11-12 million cats in the UK 
• 26-28% of households own a cat 
• British Shorthair is the most popular pedigree breed 
• 63% of cats are moggies (aka lovable mystery mixes) 
• 24% of cat owners adopted during the pandemic 

Why more people are choosing cats 

1. Perfect for city living - Cats are the ultimate flatmates. They don’t need walks, they don’t hog the remote, and they are perfectly content with a sunny windowsill and a cardboard box. 
2. Mental health and companionship - Cats are like furry therapists. Quiet, non-judgmental, and always there when you need a cuddle, on their terms of course. Many owners say their cats help reduce stress and boost their mood.
3. The pandemic effect - During lockdowns, thousands of people turned to pets for comfort. Cats were a top choice because they are low-maintenance, independent, and excellent at social distancing.
4. Lower cost and commitment - Let’s face it. Cats are cheaper. They eat less, don’t need a dog walker, and are perfectly happy with a toy mouse and a warm lap. Your wallet will thank you. 

The rise of cats and what it means for you 

So what does all this mean? It means cats are having a moment, and it’s not just a trend. Whether you’re a lifelong cat lover or just cat-curious, now is a great time to join the growing number of UK households embracing the feline lifestyle. 

Cats are cool, clever, and surprisingly low effort. If you’ve been thinking about adopting a cat, consider this your sign. Just be prepared to lose control of your furniture, your schedule, and your heart. 

If you do take the plunge into cat parenthood, it’s worth checking out pet insurance options. Some pet insurers offer free same day vet video calls if you're worried. They can talk you through what to do, even when your cat decides to act mysterious at 2 a.m. 

If you are with Co-op Pet Insurance you can book an appointment and speak to a vet any time with unlimited 24/7 video calls through FirstVet.