The global number of domestic cats has reached 650 million, surpassing dogs. Many factors such as urbanization, the pandemic experience, loneliness, and digital culture are making cats the most preferred pets of modern life. Emphasizing that this increase is not a temporary trend but a natural result of changing lifestyles, Veterinarian Dr. Burcu Çevreli said, “Research shows that owning a cat can reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate feelings of loneliness, and increase overall life satisfaction.”
Dr. Burcu Çevreli added, “In a world of smaller homes, more intense work schedules, and more limited social contact, cats seem likely to continue securing a permanent place in modern human life with their quiet yet powerful presence.”
Dr. Burcu Çevreli from the Department of Physiology at Üsküdar University Faculty of Medicine evaluated the growing number of cat owning households on the occasion of February 17 World Cat Day.
The number of domestic cats has reached 650 million
Pointing out that the number of cat owning households worldwide has increased remarkably in recent years, Dr. Burcu Çevreli said, “According to current data, the number of domestic cats has reached 650 million, surpassing the estimated 530 million domestic dogs. Experts state that this situation is not a coincidence. From urbanization to the pandemic, from loneliness to digital culture, many factors have made cats the most preferred pets in modern life.”
Urbanization brought cats to the forefront
Dr. Çevreli noted that as urban life becomes more widespread, people are increasingly living in smaller spaces. “While apartment living and compact homes make it difficult to care for large animals with high physical activity needs, cats, which easily adapt to indoor environments, stand out. Their need for less space, the absence of a requirement for regular outdoor walks, and their quiet nature make cats an ideal choice especially for city dwellers,” she said.
The pandemic was a turning point
Emphasizing that the COVID 19 pandemic marked a significant turning point in the rise of cat ownership, Dr. Çevreli stated, “Although concerns initially arose about the relationship between pets and the virus, it was later understood that the virus spread mainly through human to human contact, which greatly reduced these fears. During long quarantines, homes became the center of school, work, and social life, and cats assumed the role of calm and constant companions in this new order. The fact that high adoption rates have largely been maintained after the pandemic indicates that this trend is not temporary but lasting.”
Psychological support against loneliness
Dr. Çevreli pointed out that the widespread adoption of remote work has also brought feelings of loneliness and social isolation. “Experts emphasize that the emotional support provided by pets has become more important than ever during this process. With their purring and calming physical contact, cats stand out as a strong source of psychological support, especially for individuals living alone,” she said.
Independent yet loving companions
Dr. Çevreli also noted that cats’ compatibility with apartment life is a determining factor in their preference. “Compared to dogs, their greater independence, ability to stay alone for longer periods, and more flexible care requirements provide an advantage for individuals with busy lifestyles. This independence does not mean that cats are less affectionate, but it does make them less demanding companions,” she explained.
The impact of digital culture
Dr. Çevreli highlighted that social media and digital culture also contribute to this rise. “With their cute appearances and unexpected behaviors, cats have become some of the most popular images on the internet. This visibility not only provides entertainment but also spreads cat ownership as a more accessible and normal life practice. Representations of cats in popular culture also help break down misconceptions about them,” she said.
Contributes to mental health
“Research shows that owning a cat can reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate feelings of loneliness, and increase overall life satisfaction,” said Dr. Çevreli, adding that these findings reveal that cats are not just pets but also important companions that support mental health.
According to experts, the increase in cat ownership is not a temporary enthusiasm but rather a natural reflection of changing lifestyles. Dr. Çevreli concluded, “In a world with smaller homes, more demanding work lives, and more limited social interaction, cats appear likely to continue securing a lasting place in modern human life with their quiet yet strong presence.”