Purring Stars: Cats Are the Most Popular Pets Among Austrians
Almost every second household in Austria (45 percent) has at least one pet. In 22 percent of households, there are even multiple animals. Cats are particularly popular: 61 percent of pet owners have one or more felines, followed by dogs (41 percent). Small animals like rabbits or guinea pigs are kept in eight percent of households, followed by fish (six percent) and birds (four percent).
"Whether cat, dog, or small animal – pets have long been family members and are treated as such," explains Rainer Will, Managing Director of the Trade Association. "This is reflected in rising expenses for food, care, and gifts."
Vienna spends the most on pets
According to the Consumer Check conducted by the Trade Association together with Repubblika Research, pet owners spend an average of 92 euros per month in retail on pet products. Households in Vienna invest the most (107 euros), while those in Vorarlberg and Tyrol spend the least (81 euros). Food (97 percent), hygiene products like cat litter (49 percent), toys (38 percent), and medications (32 percent) are purchased most frequently. A quarter of respondents regularly buy accessories like baskets or scratching posts, grooming products, and dietary supplements.
Supermarkets (32 percent) and pet specialty stores (26 percent) are among the most popular shopping locations for pet supplies. About 23 percent of households shop both online and in physical stores, while 19 percent prefer online shopping.
Gifts for dogs and cats are not uncommon
Additionally, an average of 357 euros is spent annually on pet-related services – such as veterinary visits, grooming, or training. Overall, pet owners invest about 1,460 euros per year in their animals. According to the study "Trade in Numbers," the total turnover for pet food and accessories amounted to around 1.25 billion euros in 2024.
The emotional bond with pets is also evident in spontaneous expenses: More than two-thirds of respondents stated that they had spent more money on their pet than originally planned. About half have already given their pet a gift – for example, at Christmas or on their birthday. "The popularity of pets has grown significantly in recent years. Pets bring joy to people – and vice versa," says Will.
(Red)
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