Rising Popularity of Cats in East Asia Reflects Changing Lifestyles

A significant trend is emerging in East Asia, where cats are increasingly becoming the preferred pets over dogs. Notably, Taiwan reported a 33% increase in its cat population from 2023 to 2024, marking the first time cats outnumber dogs. This shift is attributed to urban living conditions, busy work schedules, and changing societal norms, as many young people opt for the companionship of cats over the responsibilities of dog ownership. The growing pet economy in the region is also noteworthy, with projections indicating a surge in pet-related spending. As loneliness rises among single-person households, cats are seen as a practical and comforting choice for many.

Key Details: • Taiwan's cat population grew from 1.3 million in 2023 to 1.7 million in 2024. • Cats have overtaken dogs in popularity in several East Asian countries, including Japan and China. • The pet economy in China is expected to reach $12 billion by 2030. • South Korea sold more pet strollers than baby strollers for the first time in 2023. • Authorities in South Korea are investing $327 million to combat loneliness.