Felines top the polls

The latest figures from FEDIAF for the European pet supplies market make it clear once again how important the cat is to humans on the one hand and to the international pet product sector on the other. In addition, it should be kept in mind that in countries with a particularly high proportion of rural areas, the cat population could be much larger. If the figures are compared with those from the previous year, it is evident that there are only a few countries in Europe where the numbers have declined.
104 million cats in Europe (previous year: 102.7 mio) also means, however - if people follow the feeding recommendations - around 128 kilograms of food per pet per year, which tots up mathematically to the incredible sum of 13.3 mio tonnes of cat food annually, quite apart from treats, toys, equipment and cat litter. It thus quickly becomes clear that the cat signifies big business for the pet sector. Add in the booming trade in treats for cats: even though this was ridiculed for years, a significant number of manufacturers have found this range a hard nut to crack and have paid dearly with their efforts. However, a clearer trend is emerging here, too, especially with regard to variety and added benefits.
Looking at the USA, around 94.2 mio cats are reckoned to live in the land of boundless opportunity. But the real figure could actually be somewhat higher if rural areas with big farms are taken into account. Unfortunately no reliable figures are available for South America and Asia, but they might not be too different from those of the USA.

More and more singles and couples worldwide are sharing their home with a cat. Researchers are convinced that cats keep their owners fit, comfort and amuse them, slow down their pace of life and entertain them. Whereas this type of pet boom was primarily a phenomenon found previously in the more prosperous industrialised nations, countries in eastern and south-eastern Europe and South America are now following suit. Cats are now regarded more than ever before as members of the family; they are fed good food, cared for like small children and enjoy excellent health care. This all benefits the international pet supplies sector, and no end to this trend is in sight.