The latest PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, the UK’s largest annual assessment of pet welfare, offers a detailed look at how our cats are faring. This year’s data, gathered from over 5,000 UK pet owners, highlights both encouraging trends and areas where cat welfare still needs improvement.
Cat population and ownership trends
There are now approximately 10.8 million pet cats in the UK, a stable number compared to previous years. Cat ownership has remained steady, with 24% of UK adults reporting they own a cat.
Companionship and stress
Cats are known for their independence, but companionship can still have a significant impact on their wellbeing. The report reveals that 58% of cats live alone, while 17% live with other cats they don’t always get along with, potentially affecting the wellbeing of 1.8 million cats.
Cats living with others they don’t get along with are more likely to show stress-related behaviours, such as swiping, inappropriate toileting, and overgrooming. “Cats living in multi-cat households... are more likely (55%) to show one or more behaviours that could be indicative of stress”.
Interestingly, cats introduced to a home at the same time as other cats are more likely to get along (68%) than those introduced later.
Indoor vs outdoor living
The proportion of indoor-only cats has more than doubled since 2011, rising from 15% to 31% in 2024. Although living indoors can reduce exposure to hazards like traffic and fights, it also makes it more difficult to meet all a cat’s behavioural needs.
Still, the PAW Report found no significant difference in stress-related behaviours between indoor-only cats and those with outdoor access, though owners need to work harder to provide appropriate enrichment indoor.
The litter tray dilemma
Litter tray provision remains an issue in many homes. 22% of cats have no litter tray at all, including 2% of indoor-only cats, about 78,000 cats who could be at risk of stress or health issues. The report emphasises: “Even cats who toilet outside should have access to an indoor litter tray, in case they are unable to access the outdoors".
Inappropriate elimination was more common in multi-cat homes, especially where:
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Litter trays were not cleaned daily
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Scented litter was used
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Trays were grouped together in the same location
Scratching and environmental enrichment
34% of cats scratch inappropriate household items, and this behaviour is more prevalent in cats acquired at the same time as other cats. Although scratching is a natural behaviour, it can signal stress or lack of appropriate resources. The solution? Multiple scratching posts in various locations, ideally one per cat, plus one.
Preventive healthcare and legislation awareness
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87% of cats are neutered, higher than for dogs (68%) or rabbits (61%)
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65% receive regular booster vaccinations
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78% are microchipped, with new legislation making microchipping compulsory from 10 June 2024
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Yet, only 44% of owners in England were aware of this new requirement
The cost of living impact
22% of cat owners say the cost of living has affected how they care for their pet, with 10% switching to cheaper food and 4% cancelling insurance. While these figures are stable compared to 2023, they remain a concern.
Final thoughts
91% of cat owners say their cats improve their lives. But the PDSA reminds us: “Love is not enough” – pets need their five welfare needs met to thrive.
At Tippaws, we support this mission by helping cat owners make informed, compassionate choices. Let’s continue to raise awareness, share resources, and give every cat the care and environment they deserve.