PFMA population data

While 4.7 million households (17%) have acquired a new pet since the start of the pandemic, sadly 3.4 million (12%) have given up a pet over the last year.

Although over a half (57%) of new pets have been welcomed into homes with children (2.7 million households), Gen Z and Millennials represent 53% of those owning new pets (2.6 million households). 25% (1.2 million) are 16–24 year olds and 29% (1.4 million) are 25–34 year olds. Almost one quarter (23%) of the people in these age groups have been unable to keep their pet and 71% of all relinquishments can be attributed to this demographic (2.1 million households). Looking at which pets were relinquished, 60% gave up a dog, 45% a cat and 4% ‘other’, indicating some overlap. Anecdotally, rehoming centres are seeing more small mammals such as rabbits.

Unfortunately, PFMA is not surprised to see these strong figures. However, on closer inspection, we are concerned about the number of owners who have given up their pet. We are keen to investigate why owners are giving up their pets and where they are being relinquished. We believe that many pets are being sold on to recuperate funds, in addition to being taken to rehoming centres. We are working closely with the Canine and Feline Sector Group (CFSG), plus other animal welfare charities, to identify what the pet care sector can do to support owners and prevent this from happening.