A 2021 report from Rakuten Insight highlights the popularity of pet cat ownership across the Asia Pacific region, showing a marked preference for cats in several countries. The data, drawn from an extensive survey of 97,000 participants, underscores Southeast Asia's lead in cat ownership rates compared to East Asia.
Top Countries for Cat Ownership
Indonesia claims the top position with 47% of households owning at least one cat, reflecting a high cultural acceptance and affinity for cats. The Philippines follows closely with 43%, while Thailand ranks third at 42%, further illustrating a regional trend of pet ownership across Southeast Asia.
In Viet Nam and Malaysia, cat ownership is also significant, with 35% and 34% of households owning cats, respectively. These figures suggest a broader trend in Southeast Asia where urbanization and changing lifestyles contribute to increased pet ownership.
Lower Rates in East Asia
In contrast, East Asian countries such as China (22%) and Japan (11%) report lower cat ownership rates. South Korea ranks the lowest among the surveyed countries, with only 9% of households owning a cat. This difference could be influenced by space limitations in densely populated cities, housing policies, and cultural differences toward pet ownership in these regions.
Summary Table
| Country | Cat Ownership (%) |
|---|---|
| Indonesia | 47% |
| Philippines | 43% |
| Thailand | 42% |
| Viet Nam | 35% |
| Malaysia | 34% |
| China | 22% |
| India | 20% |
| Taiwan | 19% |
| Hong Kong | 14% |
| Japan | 11% |
| Singapore | 10% |
| South Korea | 9% |
This survey illustrates not only the variation in pet ownership but also hints at regional cultural attitudes and lifestyle differences. The high rates in Southeast Asia point to a region increasingly embracing pets as part of family life, whereas East Asia remains comparatively reserved in its pet ownership patterns.
