Number of pets in Germany 2000-2023, by type of animal

15.7 million cats lived in German households as of 2023, making it the most represented animal among pet owners in the country. Dogs followed. Ownership numbers for both cats and dogs mostly increased annually during the specified time period. 

Cat nation

Choosing a pet, or, indeed, deciding to get one, depends on various factors besides just personal preference. One of the reasons there are more cats recorded as pets than dogs in Germany might be the long-standing dog tax, so owning a cat might be a better option for some from a financial point of view, as well as cats being easier to look after for those who spend the majority of their week away at work. Among EU countries, Germany had the largest cat population, and the same was true for dogs, though there were five thousand fewer dogs than cats.

Pet food and supplies

Keeping a pet leads to several types of regular costs, such as buying pet food, supplies and visits to the vet. Revenues from cat food were highest. Pet food was also bought for ornamental fish, exotic birds and small mammals. The majority of pet owners still get their supplies in brick-and-mortar stores, though a growing number are doing so online.