Are Cat Owners Getting Younger?

Once upon a time being known as a ‘cat lady’ conjured the image of a pensioner – not anymore! A UK study by Cats Protection showed that 32% of 18-24 year olds now own a cat, compared to 25% in 2021. Industry data also indicates that a significant portion of new pet owners (59% aged 16-34) are from Gen Z and Millennials. This suggests a growing trend of younger individuals embracing cat ownership.

The path to cat ownership

The study by Cats Protection also showed that the percentage of owners that did lots of research before getting a cat and those that do lots of research about how to look after their cat has risen year on year. This also backed up the statistic that 53% of cats are now insured, up from 50% in 2024.

Cats tend to be bought (38%), adopted from a UK rehoming charity (23%) or have been taken on from a neighbour, family member or friend (16%). 2.3 million were adopted from UK rescue/rehoming centres/animal shelters

Why are so many younger people getting a cat?

Companionship and stress reduction are key benefits that many owners give of having a cat. 92% consider their cat to be part of their family and 86% spend time stroking their cat or sitting together everyday with 71% regularly talking to their cat.

The lifestyle and home accommodation trends towards urbanisation are geared to make a cat a more suitable companion as they are smaller and tend to be more independent than dogs.

First time cat owners – what do they want?

The latest generation of cat owners are looking for quality ingredients and research products widely before purchase, avoiding artificial additives or items perceived to be ‘unhealthy’.

Younger pet owners look for pet food with high-quality, natural ingredients that offer specific, functional benefits like improved gut health and immune support. They are drawn to fresh, minimally processed, and transparent options and are often willing to pay a premium for foods that align with their own health and wellness standards. The motivation behind these choices are centred around enabling their pets to live longer, happier and more mobile lives.

Product recommendation

True Fresh Cat Food

Available in Chicken, Turkey and Fish varieties, Carnilove True Fresh Cat Food uses the latest technology to take fresh meat, along with fruits, vegetables and herbs and create a shelf stable food with a flavour that cats love! The unique production method preserves the original properties of the fresh meat ingredients for an entirely new and delicious sensory experience that satisfies cats’ natural instincts. Because the meat is processed fresh, True Fresh provides excellent palatability, digestibility, and a more natural form of nutrition.

Each complete recipe  for adult cats is grain and potato free, enriched fruits and herbs such as cranberries, thyme and rosemary, along with dried kelp for a natural source of probiotics. Minerals and healthy ingredients support normal urine pH and healthy urinary tract – a common complaint amongst felines.