Cats or dogs? In East Asia, more people are becoming feline fans

Cats or Dogs? In East Asia, More People Are Becoming Feline Fans

The Shift in Urban Pet Preferences

Cats or dogs In East Asia – Across East Asia, a growing number of residents are opting for cats as their preferred companions, marking a significant change in pet ownership habits. This trend has been particularly noticeable in densely populated cities where small living spaces and hectic work schedules influence choices. In Taiwan, for instance, pet cats have surpassed dogs in quantity for the first time in 2025, according to a government survey. The cat population rose sharply from 1.3 million in 2023 to 1.7 million the following year, a 33% increase. Similar patterns emerged in mainland China by 2021, while Japan was among the earliest regions to witness this shift, with cats overtaking dogs a decade prior. Even in areas where dogs remain more common, such as South Korea and Hong Kong, feline interest is steadily rising.

Why Cats Are Winning Over Dogs

The appeal of cats is tied to lifestyle factors that make them more adaptable to urban environments. As people lead fast-paced lives, the convenience of cat ownership has become a key draw. “Cats require less time and effort than dogs,” explained Ellen Chung, a Hong Kong resident, during a visit to a bustling cat café. “You don’t need to take them for walks every day, and they’re less likely to bark at strangers.” Her comments reflect a broader sentiment: many find cats to be more low-maintenance, especially in small apartments where space is limited. The rise of cat cafés, which blend coffee shops with pet-friendly lounging areas, has also contributed to this preference, offering a unique social experience centered around feline interaction.

“Having a cat feels like having a child in a way—something that provides comfort without the demands of daily routines.” – Paul Wong, clinical psychologist and associate professor at the University of Hong Kong

Wong noted that the mental shift toward viewing pets as companions rather than utility animals has reshaped perceptions. Historically, dogs were valued for their ability to guard homes or catch pests, while cats were seen as more practical for those without the time or space for traditional dog care. Now, however, cats are increasingly associated with emotional support, helping to ease loneliness in a society where personal connections are often fleeting. This aligns with the growing trend of urban dwellers prioritizing convenience and comfort over the more demanding nature of dog ownership.

Cultural Influences and Historical Context

Japan’s cultural affinity for cats dates back decades, with the iconic Hello Kitty character—created in 1974—symbolizing a nationwide love for felines. The country also boasts cat islands, such as Shikoku’s Niihama, where feral populations have drawn tourists and sparked local traditions. In contrast, South Korea’s relationship with cats has been more complex. For years, cats were considered omens of misfortune or even linked to superstitions about evil spirits. This perception, however, is waning. The number of pet cats in South Korea surged during the pandemic, with the 2025 report by KB Financial Group citing reduced outdoor activity and confined living conditions as factors that made cats more appealing. Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, the rise of cat cafés has created a thriving ecosystem for feline enthusiasts, blending leisure with pet care.

“The pandemic forced people to slow down, and cats became a natural choice,” said Beijing Gong Su-hyun, a veterinarian at the Ballyeomaru cat adoption center in Hwaseong, South Korea. “Many found that keeping a cat was easier than managing a dog, especially with fewer opportunities to go outside.” Her observations underscore how societal changes, such as lockdowns and remote work, have accelerated the adoption of cats as companions. The trend is not limited to individual choices—it also reflects broader cultural shifts. In Japan, the concept of “karoshi” (death by overwork) has highlighted the stress of urban life, making cats an ideal alternative to the burdens of raising children or maintaining a household with a dog.

Demographic Changes and Social Pressures

East Asia’s evolving demographics have further fueled the cat phenomenon. Over the past few decades, young professionals have migrated from rural areas to urban centers, leaving behind depopulating villages. This exodus has created a generation of city-dwellers who prioritize flexibility and minimal upkeep in their personal lives. In China, the competition for jobs has intensified, with the country’s top court condemning excessive work culture in 2021. Similarly, Japan has long grappled with the consequences of a hyper-competitive job market, where long hours and high pressure have become the norm. These conditions have led to declining birth rates, with many individuals opting to delay or forgo marriage and parenthood altogether.

“The pressure to conform to traditional family structures has diminished,” said Joe Ngai, an assistant professor at Hong Kong Shue Yan University. “Cats offer a form of companionship that fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles—no need for extensive training, no requirement for constant attention, and a lower financial burden.” This shift is evident in countries like China, where the number of pet cats could soon surpass the population of toddlers. For many, adopting a cat represents a compromise between the desire for connection and the realities of urban living. As Wong noted, “The decision to choose a cat over a dog often mirrors the choice to have a pet instead of a child—both provide emotional fulfillment with fewer logistical challenges.”

The Broader Implications of a Feline Boom

The growing feline population in East Asia is not just a reflection of personal preferences but also a symptom of broader societal changes. With declining birth rates and increasing rates of single-person households, cats are filling the void left by fewer human relationships. In Japan, where the population has shrunk for 16 consecutive years, this trend highlights a cultural reorientation toward individualism and self-care. Meanwhile, in South Korea, the transition from viewing cats as symbolic of bad luck to seeing them as loyal companions mirrors the country’s changing attitudes toward family and tradition.

As cities continue to expand and lifestyles become more demanding, the cat’s rise as a companion animal is likely to persist. Their adaptability to indoor environments, coupled with their affectionate yet independent nature, makes them a perfect fit for the modern urban dweller. Whether it’s the convenience of a cat’s care routine or the aesthetic appeal of a fluffy companion, the decision to favor felines over dogs is increasingly seen as a reflection of contemporary values. For many in East Asia, the choice is not just about pet ownership—it’s about finding solace in a world that often feels overwhelming.

With more people embracing cats as a symbol of comfort in urban life, the region’s pet landscape is undergoing a transformation. From cat cafés to adoption centers, the cultural and economic factors driving this shift are reshaping how East Asians interact with their pets. As the trend continues, it may serve as a reminder of the evolving priorities in a society that balances the demands of work, family, and personal well-being. The feline boom, therefore, is more than a passing fad—it’s a sign of changing times, where companionship takes on a new form in the heart of the city.