Cats are where it's at

The perception of cat ownership has changed significantly in recent years. Cats are increasingly celebrated as beloved companions across generations, lifestyles, and demographics. Younger generations are helping drive this growth, with Gen Z and Millennials playing an increasingly influential role in pet ownership and showing a greater likelihood of owning multiple pets than older generations.

This growing enthusiasm for cats extends well beyond the home. Cat-focused events, social media communities, celebrity cats, and online content have helped turn feline companionship into a thriving part of popular culture. CatCon, the world’s largest cat-centric pop culture event, has welcomed more than 100,000 attendees since its launch, reflecting just how widespread and enthusiastic today's cat-loving community has become.

Cat ownership continues to grow across the United States, particularly among younger generations. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 39% of U.S. households owned a cat in 2025, representing approximately 53 million households and a 5% year-over-year increase. Growth has been driven largely by Gen Z and Millennials, reflecting the increasing popularity of cats among younger pet owners.

Cat owners are also becoming more invested in the health, comfort, and quality of life of their pets. APPA research shows a growing focus on proactive wellness, nutrition, training, and quality time, alongside an increase in multi-cat households.

These trends reflect a broader cultural shift in pet ownership, with cats becoming increasingly integrated into everyday life and treated as valued companions across generations.

Source: American Pet Products Association, 2026 State of the Industry Report and 2025 Dog & Cat Report

By the Numbers

• Cat-Owning Households: 39% of U.S. households, approximately 53 million households, owned a cat in 2025.
• Growing Cat Ownership: Cat ownership increased 5% year over year in 2025, with growth driven largely by Gen Z and Millennials.
• Multi-Cat Households: 42% of cat-owning households have two or more cats, with single-cat households accounting for 58%.
• Growth in Multi-Cat Families: The number of households with three or more cats increased 36% between 2018 and 2024.
• Engaged Cat Owners: 48% of cat owners use some type of training method with their cat, a 41% increase from 2018.
• Cat-Centric Spending: 34% of cat owners purchase pet-themed merchandise, an 89% increase from 2018.

Cats have taken over the internet, with over 100 million cat videos viewed on YouTube daily, making them some of the most-watched content online. But their influence extends far beyond the digital world—from ancient symbols of wisdom and mystery to Hollywood icons like Puss in Boots and The Aristocats, cats have captivated audiences for centuries.

At Happy Cat Hotel & Spa, we understand the cultural impact of cats, and our marketing team stays ahead of trends to grow our presence across social media. By tapping into viral moments, emerging cat-centric content, and community engagement, we ensure that Happy Cat remains a beloved brand in the ever-expanding world of feline fandom. Whether starring in viral memes, blockbuster films, or historical mythology, these whiskered wonders continue to charm, entertain, and inspire.

Happy Cat Hotel isn’t just a concept—it’s a validated, thriving business model. Our flagship location saw 37% growth from 2021 to 2022, with an impressive 42% increase in EBITDA, proving that the demand for luxury cat boarding and grooming is stronger than ever. As the pet industry continues to expand, Happy Cat stands at the forefront of a rapidly growing, untapped market.

Dog care franchises will tell you they’re the best opportunity for success—but they’re fighting for space in an oversaturated market. Competing in that crowded arena means higher costs, tougher competition, and a constant battle for visibility.

Meanwhile, Happy Cat Hotel & Spa operates in a virtually untapped market within the same thriving pet industry. While others chase after the pack, we’ve carved out an exclusive space in luxury cat boarding and grooming—a segment with high demand and little to no competition.

Cats may be quiet and unassuming—but make no mistake, this is a bold opportunity. And we’re ready to pounce.

While dog kennels and daycares compete on every street corner, Happy Cat Hotel & Spa stands alone as the first and only feline-exclusive concept of its kind. Cat owners have long been underserved, and our customers tell us time and time again—they’ve never had access to anything like this before, and now that they do, they’ll never go anywhere else.

But this isn’t just anecdotal—we’ve done the research. Using extensive market analysis, heat maps, and territory planning, we’ve identified prime locations where Happy Cat Hotels will thrive, tapping into affluent, high-demand areas with growing pet ownership rates.

The market is wide open. The demand is real. And if we build it—they will come.