In 2011, there are currently around 8.0 million dogs and around 8.0 million cats in the UK. For more information please visit our pet population page.

You can find this information in our Regional Pet Population section.

We have small animal population statistics in our statictics section.

Currently, the top five reasons for owning a cat or dog are:

- Companionship
- Owner/partner/child always wanted one
- Owner believes that they are easy to look after
- They were rescued
- Fits in with lifestyle

The top five sources for acquiring a pet are:

- Friend/acquaintance
- Rescue Centre
- Pet shop
- Recommended breeder
- Private ad

 

 The top five sources for acquiring a pet are:

- Friend/acquaintance
- Rescue Centre
- Pet shop
- Recommended breeder
- Private ad

In 2010 the UK pet food market was valued at over £2 billion. 

Dog food market

The demand for complete dry dog food has increase by 90% in the last 10 years. Sales of dog treats has doubled and the amount of moist dog food has declined by around a quarter and mixers by around a half.


Cat food market summary:
Dry cat food sales have increased by around 80% in the last decade. The amount of moist cat food sold has remained fairly constant around the 500-550 £million bracket.

For more information on the pet food market history click on the following:

Twenty years of the pet food market by Value
Twenty years of the pet food market by Volume
Pet Food Market Data page

Market Data companies such as Mintel and Euromonitor carry out regular surveys on the pet industry and will be able to provide you with more detailed information including trends in products, market share etc and also more detailed demographic data.