Romania and Poland lead Europe in cat and dog ownership, highlighting their love for pets

Europe’s Most Pet-Loving Nations

Romania and Poland: Leading the Way in Pet Ownership in Europe

When it comes to pet ownership, Romania and Poland stand out as the most pet-loving countries in Europe. According to a recent analysis by Swedish feline-focused website Kattly, Romania ranks first in cat ownership and third in dog ownership, while Poland secures second place in both categories.

Why Romania and Poland Are the Most Pet-Loving Countries

Romania and Poland have earned their reputation as the most pet-loving nations in Europe. Romania leads in cat ownership, with 48% of households owning at least one cat, while Poland follows closely with 41%. When it comes to dogs, Hungary takes the top spot, but Poland and Romania rank second and third, respectively, showcasing their love for both cats and dogs.

Cats vs. Dogs: Which Is More Popular in Europe?

Across Europe, cats are slightly more popular than dogs. On average, 27% of European households own at least one cat, compared to 25% owning at least one dog. However, preferences vary significantly by country, with some nations showing a clear inclination toward one pet over the other.

Romania: The Cat Capital of Europe

Romania leads Europe in cat ownership, with 48% of households owning at least one cat. Poland follows closely with 41%, and Latvia ranks third with 37%. These figures highlight a strong tradition of cat ownership, particularly in Eastern Europe.

On the other hand, Greece and Turkey have the lowest rates of cat ownership, with only 13% and 14% of households owning a cat, respectively.

Dog Ownership: Hungary Takes the Lead

Hungary tops the list for dog ownership, with 50% of households owning at least one dog. Poland ranks second with 49%, followed by Romania at 45% and the Czech Republic at 42%.

At the other end of the spectrum, Turkey has the lowest rate of dog ownership in Europe, with just 5% of households owning a dog. Switzerland also ranks low, with only 12% of households owning at least one dog.

Big Gaps in Preferences by Country

Some countries show a significant gap between cat and dog ownership. For instance, in Switzerland and Turkey, cats outnumber dogs by more than three to one. In contrast, Croatia and Slovakia show a strong preference for dogs, with dog ownership rates 69% and 68% higher than cat ownership, respectively.

Cats Dominate in Europe

Overall, cats are the most popular pets in Europe. Among pet-owning households, it is more common to have multiple cats than multiple dogs. Across the continent, there are over 129 million cats compared to around 106 million dogs, reflecting the strong bond between Europeans and their feline companions.

Explore Pet Essentials for Your Pet-Loving Home

Whether you’re a cat lover or a dog enthusiast, ensuring your pet’s comfort and happiness is essential. Check out our collections for everything your furry friends need:

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