U.S. Cat Ownership Rose to 53 Million Households in 2025
New data shows more Americans are adopting multiple cats, driving a 9 percent increase in annual food spending.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Cats
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Cat ownership grew to reach 53 million U.S. households in 2025, representing 39 percent of the national population. This trend is accompanied by rising costs as owners spent an average of $337.53 on cat food this year.
Why it matters
The rise in multi-cat households signals a shift in family pet logistics and recurring household expenses. As food costs climb, cat owners are balancing value-based products with targeted premium nutrition for their animals.
The number of households with two cats rose 7 percent year-over-year, while those with three or more cats jumped 45 percent since 2018. Additionally, Gen Z male cat ownership increased 27 percent year-over-year.
The players
National Pet Owners Survey
An annual industry study that provides comprehensive benchmarks on pet-related expenditures and household ownership trends.
The details
Ownership growth is being driven by younger demographics and a preference for multi-cat homes, with male Gen Z ownership rising significantly. Owners are increasingly managing these larger households by combining value-oriented food products with premium options to maintain quality while offsetting the 9 percent increase in total food spending.
Timeline
2018: Baseline year for multi-cat household growth tracking.
2025: Year cat ownership reached 53 million households.
The Home Front
The shift toward multi-cat households mirrors broader trends in increased spending on domestic pet care. This growth is redefining household maintenance as owners balance rising food costs with the needs of larger indoor animal populations.
If you are caring for multiple cats, track your recurring food and supply costs to ensure your budget accounts for the current 9 percent increase in spending. It is also a good time to consult your veterinarian about preventive care needs for larger multi-cat households.
The takeaway
The rise in multi-cat households means more families should review their monthly pet supply budgets to account for rising costs. Consider setting up an auto-shipment for food or bulk-buying staples to manage the ongoing 9 percent increase in average annual food spending.
Further reading
For more on managing pet nutrition and household pet logistics, visit Cats.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Veterinary Practice News.
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