GITNUX REPORT 2024

Exploring Americas Most Popular Pets: Cats, Dogs, and Fish

Explore Americas Pet Obsession: From Labrador Retrievers to Betta Fish and their Fascinating Stats.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

Statistic 1

5.4 million US households own a bird

Statistic 2

Parakeets are the most popular pet bird species

Statistic 3

The average lifespan of a pet bird is 15-50 years, depending on the species

Statistic 4

The average lifespan of a pet bird is 15-50 years, depending on the species

Statistic 5

Cockatiels are the second most popular pet bird species

Statistic 6

Cats are owned by 45.3 million US households

Statistic 7

The average lifespan of a domestic cat is 13-17 years

Statistic 8

33% of cat owners have two cats

Statistic 9

Maine Coon is the most popular pedigree cat breed in the US

Statistic 10

31% of pet cats are adopted from shelters

Statistic 11

The average cat owner spends $902 per year on their pet

Statistic 12

3.2 million cats enter US animal shelters every year

Statistic 13

88% of cat owners have their pets spayed or neutered

Statistic 14

25% of US households own a cat

Statistic 15

The average number of cats per household is 1.8

Statistic 16

Exotic Shorthair is the second most popular pedigree cat breed in the US

Statistic 17

33% of US households have at least one cat

Statistic 18

Dogs are owned by 69 million US households

Statistic 19

The average lifespan of a domestic dog is 10-13 years

Statistic 20

24% of dog owners have two dogs

Statistic 21

Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the US

Statistic 22

25% of pet dogs are adopted from shelters

Statistic 23

The average dog owner spends $1,480 per year on their pet

Statistic 24

3.3 million dogs enter US animal shelters every year

Statistic 25

78% of dog owners have their pets spayed or neutered

Statistic 26

38% of US households own a dog

Statistic 27

The average number of dogs per household is 1.6

Statistic 28

French Bulldogs are the second most popular dog breed in the US

Statistic 29

63% of US households have at least one dog

Statistic 30

Fish are the third most popular pet in the US

Statistic 31

11.8 million US households own freshwater fish

Statistic 32

12.2% of US households own a freshwater fish

Statistic 33

Goldfish can live up to 10-15 years with proper care

Statistic 34

Betta fish typically live 2-5 years

Statistic 35

1.6% of US households own a saltwater fish

Statistic 36

Clownfish are one of the most popular saltwater aquarium fish

Statistic 37

68% of US households own a pet

Statistic 38

90.5 million homes in the US own a pet

Statistic 39

Americans spend $103.6 billion annually on their pets

Statistic 40

44% of millennials see their pets as 'starter children'

Statistic 41

35% of pet owners are millennials

Statistic 42

67% of US households own at least one pet

Statistic 43

Approximately 6.3 million companion animals enter US shelters annually

Statistic 44

810,000 animals who enter shelters as strays are returned to their owners

Statistic 45

About 4.1 million shelter animals are adopted each year

Statistic 46

Approximately 920,000 shelter animals are euthanized each year

Statistic 47

The global pet care market was valued at $232 billion in 2020

Statistic 48

76% of Millennials are more likely to splurge on their pets than themselves

Statistic 49

17% of US households acquired a pet during the COVID-19 pandemic

Statistic 50

70% of pet owners say their pets help them cope with stress and anxiety

Statistic 51

85% of dog owners and 76% of cat owners consider their pets to be family members

Statistic 52

The global pet food market is expected to reach $113.08 billion by 2025

Statistic 53

4.5 million US households own a reptile

Statistic 54

Bearded dragons are the most popular pet reptile

Statistic 55

The average lifespan of a bearded dragon is 10-15 years

Statistic 56

The average lifespan of a pet turtle is 20-30 years

Statistic 57

Corn snakes are one of the most popular pet snake species

Statistic 58

5.7 million US households own a small animal (excluding dogs and cats)

Statistic 59

Rabbits are the third most popular pet in the UK

Statistic 60

The average lifespan of a pet rabbit is 8-12 years

Statistic 61

Guinea pigs typically live 4-8 years

Statistic 62

Hamsters have an average lifespan of 2-3 years

Statistic 63

The average lifespan of a pet ferret is 6-10 years

Statistic 64

Gerbils typically live 2-4 years

Share:FacebookLinkedIn
Sources

Our Reports have been cited by:

Trust Badges

Summary

  • 68% of US households own a pet
  • 90.5 million homes in the US own a pet
  • Dogs are owned by 69 million US households
  • Cats are owned by 45.3 million US households
  • Fish are the third most popular pet in the US
  • 11.8 million US households own freshwater fish
  • The average lifespan of a domestic cat is 13-17 years
  • The average lifespan of a domestic dog is 10-13 years
  • 33% of cat owners have two cats
  • 24% of dog owners have two dogs
  • Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the US
  • Maine Coon is the most popular pedigree cat breed in the US
  • 25% of pet dogs are adopted from shelters
  • 31% of pet cats are adopted from shelters
  • Americans spend $103.6 billion annually on their pets

Move over Kardashians, theres a new star-studded statistic in town: 68% of US households own a pet! From sassy cats to loyal pups and even fish that could school you in popularity, the pet kingdom reigns supreme in American homes. With 90.5 million households opening their doors to furry, scaly, and feathered friends, its a pet-eat-pet world out there. So buckle up, grab a chew toy or a catnip-filled pillow, and lets dive into the wild and whimsical world of Americas most beloved companions.

Bird Statistics

  • 5.4 million US households own a bird
  • Parakeets are the most popular pet bird species
  • The average lifespan of a pet bird is 15-50 years, depending on the species
  • The average lifespan of a pet bird is 15-50 years, depending on the species
  • Cockatiels are the second most popular pet bird species

Interpretation

In a world where some relationships last shorter than a TikTok video, the avian companions of 5.4 million US households are here to remind us that commitment comes in various feathered forms. From chatty parakeets stealing the show as the divas of the bird world to the suave cockatiels strutting their stuff as the second most sought-after companions, these winged wonders gracefully defy the concept of time with lifespans rivaling some mortgages. So, if you're looking for a long-term commitment without the typical romantic drama, a pet bird might just be the partner you never knew you needed - squawks and all.

Cat Statistics

  • Cats are owned by 45.3 million US households
  • The average lifespan of a domestic cat is 13-17 years
  • 33% of cat owners have two cats
  • Maine Coon is the most popular pedigree cat breed in the US
  • 31% of pet cats are adopted from shelters
  • The average cat owner spends $902 per year on their pet
  • 3.2 million cats enter US animal shelters every year
  • 88% of cat owners have their pets spayed or neutered
  • 25% of US households own a cat
  • The average number of cats per household is 1.8
  • Exotic Shorthair is the second most popular pedigree cat breed in the US
  • 33% of US households have at least one cat

Interpretation

In a world where fluff reigns supreme, it's no surprise that cats have clawed their way into the hearts and homes of millions across the US. From Maine Coons to Exotic Shorthairs, these four-legged feline overlords command purr-sonalities as diverse as their pedigree. With a lifespan that spans a cozy 13-17 years, and an average household spending of $902 per year per kitty, it's clear that being a cat owner is the cat's pajamas. But behind the whiskers and purrs lies a somber truth - with 3.2 million cats entering shelters annually, it's up to the 31% of kind-hearted souls who choose adoption to give these furballs their happily ever after. So, whether you're a multi-cat maestro or a single-cat connoisseur, remember that in the grand scheme of things, we may think we own cats, but in reality, they own us.

Dog Statistics

  • Dogs are owned by 69 million US households
  • The average lifespan of a domestic dog is 10-13 years
  • 24% of dog owners have two dogs
  • Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the US
  • 25% of pet dogs are adopted from shelters
  • The average dog owner spends $1,480 per year on their pet
  • 3.3 million dogs enter US animal shelters every year
  • 78% of dog owners have their pets spayed or neutered
  • 38% of US households own a dog
  • The average number of dogs per household is 1.6
  • French Bulldogs are the second most popular dog breed in the US
  • 63% of US households have at least one dog

Interpretation

In a country where furry friends reign supreme, it's no surprise that dogs hold the leash of popularity. With 69 million households proudly embracing their four-legged companions, it's a dog-eat-dog world out there. Labradors fetch the top spot as the most adored breed, while French Bulldogs bark their way to second place. From extravagant vet bills to endless belly rubs, dog owners spare no expense in showering their loyal companions with love. But amidst the wagging tails and wet noses lie sobering statistics - with 3.3 million dogs entering shelters annually, the bittersweet reality of pet ownership comes to light. Yet, with 25% of pet dogs finding their forever homes through adoption, it's a reminder that every dog indeed has its day.

Fish Statistics

  • Fish are the third most popular pet in the US
  • 11.8 million US households own freshwater fish
  • 12.2% of US households own a freshwater fish
  • Goldfish can live up to 10-15 years with proper care
  • Betta fish typically live 2-5 years
  • 1.6% of US households own a saltwater fish
  • Clownfish are one of the most popular saltwater aquarium fish

Interpretation

Move over cats and dogs, it seems that fish have been quietly swimming their way into the hearts and homes of Americans. With nearly 12 million households opting for freshwater fish companions, these underwater dwellers are certainly making a splash in the pet world. From the elegant goldfish, capable of outliving some house plants with a lifespan of up to 15 years, to the feisty betta fish adding colorful flair to homes for 2-5 years, it's clear that fish can be just as beloved as any furry friend. And let's not forget the exclusive club of saltwater fish owners, who make up a niche 1.6% of US households, choosing charismatic clownfish to bring a touch of the ocean's magic into their homes. It seems that in the vast sea of pet choices, fish are holding their own as top contenders, proving that you don't need fur or paws to win over hearts.

Pet Ownership

  • 68% of US households own a pet
  • 90.5 million homes in the US own a pet
  • Americans spend $103.6 billion annually on their pets
  • 44% of millennials see their pets as 'starter children'
  • 35% of pet owners are millennials
  • 67% of US households own at least one pet
  • Approximately 6.3 million companion animals enter US shelters annually
  • 810,000 animals who enter shelters as strays are returned to their owners
  • About 4.1 million shelter animals are adopted each year
  • Approximately 920,000 shelter animals are euthanized each year
  • The global pet care market was valued at $232 billion in 2020
  • 76% of Millennials are more likely to splurge on their pets than themselves
  • 17% of US households acquired a pet during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • 70% of pet owners say their pets help them cope with stress and anxiety
  • 85% of dog owners and 76% of cat owners consider their pets to be family members
  • The global pet food market is expected to reach $113.08 billion by 2025

Interpretation

In a world where pets are seen as 'starter children' by millennials and where Americans are more likely to splurge on their furry companions than themselves, it's clear that the pet industry is booming. With a staggering $103.6 billion spent annually on our beloved companions, it's no surprise that 85% of dog owners and 76% of cat owners consider their pets to be family members. As 6.3 million companion animals enter US shelters each year, the heartwarming news is that 810,000 strays find their way back home, while 4.1 million lucky animals are adopted. Despite the challenges, the bond between humans and their pets remains unbreakable, serving as a source of comfort, joy, and companionship in times of stress and uncertainty. As the pet care market continues to grow, it's clear that our furry friends hold a special place in our hearts and homes, shaping the way we live and love in the modern world.

Reptile Statistics

  • 4.5 million US households own a reptile
  • Bearded dragons are the most popular pet reptile
  • The average lifespan of a bearded dragon is 10-15 years
  • The average lifespan of a pet turtle is 20-30 years
  • Corn snakes are one of the most popular pet snake species

Interpretation

In a world where reptiles reign, it seems the scales are tipping in favor of bearded dragons and their slithery cohorts. With 4.5 million US households embracing these cold-blooded companions, it's clear that scales and shells have a special place in our hearts. Bearded dragons strut their stuff as the top reptile pet, boasting a knockout lifespan of 10-15 years, while pet turtles pace themselves for the long haul at 20-30 years. Meanwhile, corn snakes slide effortlessly into the spotlight as one of the chosen serpents among reptile enthusiasts. So, whether you're team lizard, team turtle, or team snake, one thing's for sure - the reptile realm is alive and thriving in our midst.

Small Animal Statistics

  • 5.7 million US households own a small animal (excluding dogs and cats)
  • Rabbits are the third most popular pet in the UK
  • The average lifespan of a pet rabbit is 8-12 years
  • Guinea pigs typically live 4-8 years
  • Hamsters have an average lifespan of 2-3 years
  • The average lifespan of a pet ferret is 6-10 years
  • Gerbils typically live 2-4 years

Interpretation

In a world where small animals reign supreme as the unsung heroes of the pet kingdom, statistics reveal a life expectancy game even more unpredictable than a reality TV show. From the hop-along rabbits clocking in impressive 8-12 years, to the zippy hamsters barely making it past the terrible twos, it's a spectrum where cuteness is no guarantee of longevity. In this miniature menagerie, every twitch of a whisker is a reminder of mortality's capricious nature—where gerbils and guinea pigs shine briefly before bowing out, while the ever-mysterious ferrets defy norms with their extended stay. So, as these diminutive companions blink into our lives for fleeting moments or linger like pint-sized immortals, one thing remains clear: the smallest hearts often leave the biggest pawprints.

References