Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world, with an estimated 500 million cats kept as domesticated companions. However, not everyone is a cat person, and there are certain demographics that are more likely to own feline companions than others. Understanding the demographics of cat owners can provide insight into why people choose cats as pets, and how best to market pet-related products and services to this demographic.
Demographics of Cat Owners: An Overview
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 25% of US households own at least one cat. This translates to approximately 30 million households across the country. Women are more likely to be cat owners than men, with 68% of cat owners being female. The majority of cat owners are also under the age of 55, with millennials and Gen Xers being the most likely age groups to own cats.
In terms of income, cat ownership is fairly evenly distributed across all income brackets. However, cat owners are more likely to be single or living in households without children. This suggests that cats may be preferred as pets by those who live alone or who do not have children, as they provide companionship without requiring as much attention or care as other pets.
Understanding Who Buys Feline Companions
So, who buys feline companions? As mentioned earlier, women are more likely to own cats than men, but why? Some experts suggest that women may be more nurturing and empathetic, and therefore more likely to seek out companionship from pets. Additionally, women may be more likely to work from home or have flexible work schedules that allow them to spend more time with their pets.
Millennials and Gen Xers are also more likely to own cats than Baby Boomers or the Silent Generation. This could be due to a number of factors, including changes in societal norms, living arrangements, and career paths. Many millennials and Gen Xers are delaying marriage and starting families, which may make cats a more appealing option for companionship.
In conclusion, the demographics of cat owners provide insight into who is most likely to purchase feline companions, and why. Women, particularly those under the age of 55, are the most likely group to own cats, and cat ownership is fairly evenly distributed across all income brackets. Understanding these demographics can help pet-related businesses tailor their products and services to meet the needs of cat owners, and can also help individuals make informed decisions about pet ownership.
With the popularity of cats as pets continuing to grow, it is important to understand the demographics of cat ownership. By doing so, we can better understand why people choose cats as companions, and how best to cater to the needs of the feline-loving demographic.