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 – For decades, the debate between feline and canine lovers has captivated society, but recent shifts in East Asia reveal a growing preference for cats over dogs. This trend, driven by lifestyle changes and cultural factors, is reshaping pet ownership across the region. In places like Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong, the number of households adopting cats has outpaced that of dogs, signaling a significant transformation in how people interact with pets.

A Cultural Shift in Urban Pet Ownership

Urbanization has played a pivotal role in this shift. Cities across East Asia, characterized by cramped living spaces and fast-paced work environments, have made cats a more appealing choice for many. In Taiwan, pet cats surpassed dogs in 2025, marking the first time in history that felines held the majority. The population of cats there climbed from 1.3 million in 2023 to 1.7 million by 2025, a 33% rise. Similar patterns emerged in mainland China, where the cat population exceeded dogs in 2021. Japan, however, has been the earliest adopter of this trend, with cats overtaking dogs a decade prior.

“In a city setting, owning a cat offers greater convenience, as frequent walks with dogs can be challenging due to time constraints, and some individuals harbor a fear of canines,” said Ellen Chung, a Hong Kong resident who spoke to CNN while relaxing in a cat café bustling with visitors and stylish feline companions.

These urban conditions, often linked to loneliness and limited time, have made cats a practical alternative to dogs. “People choose not to have kids now. So having a pet almost resembles having a child,” explained Paul Wong, a clinical psychologist and associate professor at the University of Hong Kong. He noted that the demands of city life—hyper-competitive jobs, long work hours, and high living costs—have pushed individuals toward pets that fit seamlessly into their schedules.

From Utility to Companionship

The role of animals in daily life has evolved dramatically. Historically, dogs were seen as protectors or working companions, while cats served as pest controllers. Today, however, their primary function is emotional support. “The main difference in the last decade or so has been a mental shift, transitioning animals from functional roles to companionship,” Wong added. This change reflects a broader societal trend where pets are no longer just tools but sources of comfort and connection.

Japan, in particular, has a long history of cat-centric culture. The iconic Hello Kitty, introduced in 1974, became a global phenomenon, generating an $80 billion empire. The country also boasts several “cat islands,” where feral cat populations have drawn tourists eager to witness their wild counterparts. These cultural icons, combined with the convenience of indoor cat care, have reinforced the appeal of felines in densely populated areas.

South Korea’s Changing Perception

South Korea, once skeptical of cats, has undergone a transformation. For years, cats were associated with ill fortune or supernatural entities, leading to their lower popularity as pets compared to dogs. This mindset began to change during the pandemic, as lockdowns restricted outdoor activities and made indoor pets more accessible. According to a 2025 report by KB Financial Group, cat adoption rates in South Korea surged sharply, driven by the ease of maintaining them in small apartments and the comfort of having them nearby.

“The surge in cat ownership in South Korea, accelerated by the pandemic, may stem from the ease of indoor care, as lockdowns restricted outdoor activities for over a year,” the report highlighted.

Beijing Gong Su-hyun, a veterinarian at the Ballyeomaru cat adoption center in Hwaseong, South Korea, observed the growing demand. “I can feel that the interest in cats is growing,” she noted, citing an increase in visitors seeking to adopt or volunteer with felines. This shift mirrors broader changes in how people prioritize companionship, especially in a society grappling with economic pressures and social isolation.

Demographic Trends and Work Culture

Across China, Japan, and South Korea, demographic and social changes have further fueled the rise of cat ownership. Younger generations have moved en masse from rural areas to urban centers, leaving behind depopulated villages dominated by aging populations. This migration has intensified the challenges of city life, including competitive job markets, stagnant wages, and excessive work hours. In China, the pressure of work culture became so severe that it was criticized by the top court in 2021 for its detrimental effects on employees’ well-being.

Japan, in turn, has a term for “death by overwork,” underscoring the country’s struggle with long hours and burnout. The government has since imposed legal limits on overtime, yet the cultural emphasis on productivity persists. “These conditions make cats a more practical option, especially for the younger generation,” said Joe Ngai, an assistant professor at Hong Kong Shue Yan University. “Their adaptability to indoor environments and minimal need for daily walks aligns with the demands of modern urban life.”

Impact on Family Planning

The preference for cats is also influencing decisions about parenthood. With declining birth rates across East Asia, many individuals are opting to delay or forgo having children. In this context, pets have become a substitute for companionship, offering emotional fulfillment without the responsibilities of raising a family. “Having a pet almost resembles having a