T. Ozbun
Research expert covering food retail and all food topics for Italy and Brazil
Pet ownership in Italy - statistics & facts
Pets hold a significant and cherished position in the hearts of numerous Italians. Many view them as full-fledged family members, with younger generations expressing this sentiment more strongly than older ones. Not only are these animals considered family, but some individuals believe they can even serve as substitutes for children. In a 2024 survey, it was discovered that 37 percent of millennials in Italy held the belief that a pet could replace a child. Conversely, 80 percent of baby boomers did not share this belief.
Taking care of a pet entails not only time but also financial commitment. When it comes to pet care and supplies, over half of surveyed Italians spend between 51 and 100 euros per month. Additionally, pets require visits to the veterinarian, and while the majority of Italians spend less than 30 euros per year on their pets’ medical care and pharmaceuticals, there remains a significant share of pet owners who spend up to 100 euros per year.
Pets may have numerous needs and requirements, making them quite a handful. However, their owners always find them worth the effort and shower them with love and care.
Dogs and cats
Italian households are home to approximately 10.2 million cats and 8.8 million dogs. In 2018, around 27 percent of households owned at least one dog, while about 18 percent had a cat. By 2022, these percentages had equalized, with both dogs and cats being owned by 25 percent of households. When it comes to acquiring pets, the most common method for dogs in Italian households was through a shelter or association. On the other hand, cats predominantly entered households as strays.Other pets
While cats and dogs are more commonly found in Italian homes, the population of small pets in the country is larger in absolute numbers. Italy has in fact one of the largest domestic animal populations in Europe; notably, the country boasts the highest number of birds on the whole continent, with almost 13 million. Moreover, there are 3.2 million small animals and reptiles found in Italian households. Nevertheless, the most numerous pets in Italy are fish, with a count of nearly 30 million.Care and vets
People have various reasons for having pets, and two prominent advantages are their ability to provide companionship and bring joy into households. However, in today's busy world, owning a pet presents challenges, as maintaining a work-life balance often restricts the amount of time individuals can devote to their beloved animal companions. Around one in two Italians dedicate one to three hours per day to their pets, while a small yet dedicated six percent allocate over five hours daily to their furry friends.Taking care of a pet entails not only time but also financial commitment. When it comes to pet care and supplies, over half of surveyed Italians spend between 51 and 100 euros per month. Additionally, pets require visits to the veterinarian, and while the majority of Italians spend less than 30 euros per year on their pets’ medical care and pharmaceuticals, there remains a significant share of pet owners who spend up to 100 euros per year.
Pets may have numerous needs and requirements, making them quite a handful. However, their owners always find them worth the effort and shower them with love and care.
