A white a tan cat lying on the floor while getting a chin rub. There are blue illustrations of paw prints and horse shoes on right hand side of the image.

The Big Pet Census 2024

Earlier this year, we launched our second Big Pet Census to see how life with our pets has changed across the UK.

As an animal welfare charity dedicated to helping sick and injured pets, Blue Cross always loves hearing about the nation’s pets and the people who care for them. Earlier this year, we wrapped up our second Big Pet Census and have been busy analysing the incredible stories and insights you shared. Here’s what we found:

Illustration of a horse, dog, cat, rabbit, two mice and a goldfish

Your family pets

  • 58 per cent of you have cats
  • 43 per cent of you have dogs
  • 9 per cent of you have small pets – such as hamsters or rats
  • 7 per cent of you have fish
  • 7 per cent of you have at least one horse or pony

 

Discover the full results

How do you see your pet?

% of you said your pet was part of the family

92

% of you said your pet was a companion

49

% of you said your pet was your best friend

44
An illustration of a rabbit looking into the face of a woman

More people are choosing to adopt their pet from rescues or charities

It seems there is growing support for people choosing to get their pets from animal charities. The rate of those selecting UK-based rescue charities has risen to 38 per cent in 2024, up from 35 per cent in the 2022 Pet Census.

The top five challenges pet owners face today

  • 27 per cent of you identified veterinary costs as the biggest challenge
  • 18 per cent of you said your pet getting older is the biggest challenge
  • 11 per cent of you identified the cost of pet food and care as the biggest challenge
  • 10 per cent of you identified insurance costs as the biggest challenge
  • 5 per cent of you identified the possibility of outliving your pet as the biggest challenge

If you are struggling with the cost of caring for your pet we have lots of helpful advice available.

[Illustrations by Laura Ireland]