Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households (63%) own pets, according to the latest data from Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ), with this figure remaining stable over the past decade despite growing barriers to pet ownership.
The 2024 NZ Pet Data Report shows cats continue to dominate as the country's most popular companion animal, present in 40% of households with an estimated 1.26 million cats nationwide. Dogs follow at 31% of households, representing approximately 830,000 animals, though this marks a slight decline from 34% in 2020.
Regional and demographic patterns emerge
Pet ownership varies significantly across age groups and regions. Ownership declines after age 65 compared to all other demographics, while cats prove particularly popular among people aged 45-64.
Households with children show higher pet ownership rates (66-71% depending on children's ages) compared to childless homes (60%). Auckland households demonstrate lower pet ownership rates than other regions across New Zealand.
Barriers persist for potential pet owners
Despite widespread animal affection, approximately 440,000 households (22%) report wanting pets but facing obstacles including lifestyle constraints, costs and responsibility concerns. Housing restrictions particularly affect younger demographics, with those under 35 more likely to encounter rental limitations and financial considerations.
Among non-pet owners, over 60% express interest in future pet ownership, with cats and dogs as preferred choices. Notably, 34% of current non-owners have previously kept pets.
Acquisition and care trends
Animal rescues and the SPCA serve as primary sources for cats, while dogs more commonly come from breeders. Private advertisements represent significant acquisition channels for dogs, horses and rabbits, while keeping strays remains common for cat acquisition.
Responsible care practices show strong adoption rates, with 96% of owned cats and 85% of owned dogs reported as desexed. Microchipping has increased substantially, reaching 72% for cats and 89% for dogs in 2024.
"New Zealander's strong bond with our companion animals shows just how important the relationship is," said Professor Natalie Waran, director of the A Good Life for Animals Centre. "As the report highlights, the role of pets in our lives is deeply embedded in our culture, but it is also evolving. It's not about ownership — it's about companionship; with love and a commitment to share our lives with them.
"As New Zealanders face the challenges of pet ownership and navigate changing societal expectations, particularly around how cats are managed, CANZ remains committed to improving the welfare of our pets," she added. "With the rising costs and time commitments involved, there's a real opportunity to continue educating and advocating for more awareness of pet's needs and what support is available. It's also vital that we keep pushing for better standards, ensuring all animals live their best lives here in New Zealand."
About the report
The NZ Pet Data Report represents New Zealand's largest, representative survey of pet population and ownership insights. Insights HQ conducted the research commissioned by Companion Animals NZ to survey New Zealand households, sizing and profiling the companion animal population while assessing attitudes toward companion animals.
The 2024 data collection occurred between September 23 and October 16, 2024, with a follow-up booster conducted between January 17 and February 3, 2025 among rabbit owners to increase sample size, though population estimates for rabbits were unavailable due to low base numbers.
