In East Asia, a notable trend favoring cats over dogs has become increasingly apparent in recent years. Evidence from various nations suggests a significant shift in pet ownership demographics. For instance, a government survey in Taiwan indicated that in 2025, the number of cat owners surpassed that of dog owners for the first time in recorded history.
Furthermore, the cat population in Taiwan demonstrated substantial growth, rising from 1.3 million in 2023 to 1.7 million in the following year, representing an increase of nearly 33%. Similar shifts were observed previously in China in 2021. The trajectory was established even earlier in Japan, where cats overtook dogs approximately a decade ago.
Even in countries where canine ownership remains more prevalent, such as South Korea and Hong Kong, the popularity of cats continues to grow steadily. Experts suggest that several shared urban factors contribute to this developing trend. These factors include densely populated metropolitan areas, the prevalence of smaller living spaces, and heightened feelings of isolation among residents.
These conditions appear to make the companionship offered by cats particularly appealing. The increasing appeal of cats suggests a cultural adaptation to modern, compact urban lifestyles across the region.
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