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

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

Cats or dogs In East Asia – The age-old debate of cat versus dog lovers has shifted in East Asia, with an increasing number of individuals favoring feline companions. This trend, once thought to be a niche preference, has now become a notable societal movement. From bustling metropolises to compact urban spaces, the allure of cats is gaining traction, outpacing traditional dog ownership in several regions. For instance, in Taiwan, a government survey revealed that pet cats surpassed dogs for the first time in 2025, marking a significant cultural turning point. The island’s cat population skyrocketed from 1.3 million in 2023 to 1.7 million by the end of the previous year—a rise of nearly 33%.

A Shift in Preferences Across the Region

Similar changes are observed in mainland China, where the trend began in 2021. Japan, often regarded as the pioneer of this feline fascination, saw cats overtake dogs a decade earlier. Even in South Korea and Hong Kong, where dogs remain more prevalent, the appeal of cats is steadily growing. This widespread shift appears to stem from shared factors across these regions: urbanization, small living spaces, and the emotional impact of modern lifestyles.

Urban dwellers in dense cities often live in cramped apartments, leaving little room for larger pets. Loneliness, exacerbated by the fast-paced nature of city life, has made cats an attractive alternative to dogs. “Having a cat is more convenient in a city because you have to frequently take dogs out for walks, and some people are afraid of dogs,” noted Ellen Chung, a Hong Kong resident, while speaking at a cat café. The café, bustling with visitors and cats in colorful attire, became a backdrop for her observations. She added, “I think cats are just cuter,” reflecting a broader sentiment among younger generations.

Paul Wong, a clinical psychologist and associate professor at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), linked this trend to the psychological impact of city living. “People choose not to have kids now. So having a pet almost resembles having a child,” he explained. The rise in cat ownership, he suggested, is tied to the challenges of urban existence, such as demanding work schedules and the need for low-maintenance companionship. “The combined pressures of city life would probably make people feel like having cats rather than dogs,” Wong emphasized, highlighting a shift from utilitarian animal use to emotional fulfillment.

Historical Roots of the Feline Fascination

Japan, in particular, has a long-standing cultural connection to cats, rooted in its history and media. The iconic Hello Kitty, introduced in 1974, became a global phenomenon, generating an estimated $80 billion in revenue. This cultural influence, alongside Japan’s “cat islands”—famous for their feral feline populations—has contributed to the nation’s early adoption of cats as pets. However, not all regions have embraced felines with the same enthusiasm. South Korea, for example, once associated cats with ill fortune or evil spirits, making them less popular than dogs for much of the 20th century.

This perception has slowly evolved, particularly after the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. According to a 2025 report by KB Financial Group, the number of pet cats in South Korea surged sharply during this period. The restrictions on outdoor activities limited the time people could spend with dogs, making cats a more accessible choice. “Cats are easier to care for indoors,” said Beijing Gong Su-hyun, a veterinarian at a cat adoption center in Hwaseong, South Korea. “People are finding that they can better integrate cats into their daily routines, especially when working from home or facing limited mobility.”

Demographic and Social Transformations

Across East Asia, profound demographic and social changes have reshaped pet ownership habits. In China, Japan, and South Korea, a generation of young people has moved from rural areas to urban centers in search of employment. This migration has left behind depopulated villages, now dominated by aging populations. However, the urban lifestyle presents its own set of challenges, including hyper-competitive job markets, stagnant wages, and high living costs. These factors have not only affected birth rates but also influenced the way people interact with animals.

For many, cats offer a solution to the pressures of modern life. “City living makes cats a more practical option,” stated Joe Ngai, an assistant professor at Hong Kong Shue Yan University’s Department of Counselling and Psychology. “They adapt well to indoor environments and don’t require daily walks, making them ideal for busy schedules.” In China, the excessive work culture reached a critical point in 2021 when the country’s top court criticized it for its detrimental effects. Japan, too, has its own term for “death by overwork,” a societal issue that has prompted legal reforms to limit overtime hours.

These societal shifts have also impacted family structures. Young Asians are increasingly delaying marriage and childbearing, driven by economic uncertainty and the desire for personal freedom. The trend of viewing pets as emotional substitutes for children is evident in regions where cat adoptions have grown rapidly. “Cats provide companionship without the same level of commitment as raising a child,” Wong observed. This perspective aligns with the broader cultural change, where pets are no longer seen solely as utility animals but as integral parts of daily life.

Future Implications of the Feline Boom

As the cat population continues to grow, its impact on East Asian demographics may be significant. In China, some estimates suggest that the number of pets could soon exceed that of toddlers, reflecting a profound shift in societal priorities. This trend raises questions about its long-term effects, from urban planning to mental health. For instance, cities may need to accommodate more cat-friendly spaces, such as indoor parks or designated lounging areas, to meet the rising demand.

Moreover, the increasing preference for cats over dogs highlights a broader cultural transformation. In the past, dogs were valued for their roles in security and pest control, while cats were seen as less versatile. Today, their emotional appeal and ease of care have redefined their purpose. “The psychological benefits of cats are undeniable,” said Ngai. “They offer comfort and affection without the demands of a canine companion.” This evolution in pet ownership could also influence social interactions, as cats become more central to family dynamics and community life.

The feline boom is not without its challenges. While cats are becoming more popular, some regions still struggle with cultural resistance. In South Korea, for example, the historical stigma against cats has slowly faded, but it remains a factor in certain communities. Additionally, the growing number of pets may place new demands on urban infrastructure, such as pet-friendly housing and veterinary services. Despite these hurdles, the trend shows no signs of slowing down, driven by the unique needs of modern urban populations.

As East Asia continues to urbanize and evolve, the preference for cats reflects a deeper transformation in how people seek connection and companionship. Whether it’s the convenience of indoor living or the aesthetic appeal of their behavior, cats have carved out a distinct place in the hearts of many. This shift, though subtle, signals a new chapter in the region’s relationship with animals—a chapter where felines are no longer just pets but symbols of a changing world.