News

Cats Could Soon Overtake Dogs As Man's Best Friend, A Study Finds

By

A recent survey from the PFMA, pet food manufacturers' association, exposedthe UK as a nation of budding cat lovers. In particular, it was found that men are the ones fueling the huge increase in cat ownership, reports the BBC.

cat-men-study-bbc-2

Source: Instagram/@athinaanrdelos

The research took a sample of 8000 households from all across the nation, and estimated the total number of pets in the UK to be 54 million, meaning that around 44% of all households are home to an animal companion.Unsurprisingly, the most commoncontinues to be indoor fish, accounting for 33 million pets, followed by outdoor fish, dogs, and then with only 5 million less, cats.

cat-men-study-bbc-3

Source: Instagram/@iansomerhalder

Between 2016 and 2017, approximately one million more men decided to become cat parents, a remarkable 25% increase from the previous year.Sam Sahota, a young man who recently adopted three new kittens,explainedto the BBC:

I had always been a dog man, but when my colleague found a box with three kittens inside, my natural instinct was to save them from certain death.
cat-men-study-bbc-1

Source: Sam Sahota

He had to nurse the fragile animals back to health, and has since completely fallen in love with them.Researchers suggest that this rising trend could be down to the online popularity of cats, particularly with male celebrities. Famous names such as Ed Sheeran, Ian Somerhalderand Russell Brand are all keen to update their online fans about their feline friends.

cat-men-study-bbc-24

Source: Instagram/@rustyrocketsbrand

Sheeran has even made a Twitter account for his newly adopted kitten, Graham.

To all the new followers, you are following a kitten. I'm proud of you

— Graham The Kitten (@GrahamShizza) 2 avril 2014

This increase in cat ownership benefits both parties, and the chief executive of PFMA told the BBC:

Pet ownership is a rewarding experience for everyone. It's wonderful to see that men are realizing the huge benefits of pets with an increase in cat ownership in this sector.
cat-men-study-bbc-4

Source: Instagram/@teddysphotos

Men are able to profit from their great companionship, and more cats are being adopted from shelters and going on to forever homes.Whilst the UK is, for now, a nation of dog lovers, these new figures suggest that a feline future could be on the horizon.If you live in England, you can visit the RSPCA, and if you live in the United States, you can visit the ASPCA to get more information about pets available for adoption.Tens of thousands of dogs and cats end up in shelters each year, either due to neglect, abuse or abandonment. Consider adopting before you shop, and visit your local shelters before going to a breeder. Every dog and cat deserves a fair chance at a forever home.

Cover Image: Instagram/@ronnie_andreggie

* * *

At Holidog, we aim to improve the lives of your furry friends. Enjoy your holidays with peace of mind, knowing your pet is in great hands (find a petsitter near you) and spoil them with our monthly subscription box filled with yummy treats and toys (get your free box here). You can count on us!