By the Numbers: Insights on Boosting Feline Veterinary Care
Demand isn’t holding cats back, it’s delivery, says Dr. Jane Brunt, executive director of CATalyst Council, a national organization dedicated to accelerating innovation in feline care and enhancing quality of life for cats and their people.
Following the release of its Feline Market Insights Report Volume II, CATalyst Council unveiled additional insights focused on the emotional, behavioral and operational dynamics driving the future of feline veterinary care.
6-18 months
Projected amount of time for veterinary visit growth to rebound to a 1-2% increase. The CATalyst Council report predicts visit growth based on cat age demographics and the potential for continued consumer income recovery.
70%
An estimated 70% of U.S. household-owned cats did not visit a veterinary practice in 2024, and over 80% did not receive wellness care, compared to corresponding 30% to 35% of dogs missing an annual visit.
93%
The percentage of cat owners who view their cat as a “member of the family.” Furthermore, 77% of Gen Z owners report they would spend any amount to keep their cat healthy. This emotional alignment supports expanded investment in species-specific care. Everyday behavior is one of the earliest indicators of health decline in cats, but it’s also the most overlooked, said Kristin Wuhrman, vice chair of the CATalyst Council. “This analysis challenges us to reframe feline care around subtle changes in activity, appetite and the litter box routine. A change in these behaviors is often the first sign of disease, and may be seen long before overt clinical symptoms appear.”
7-10
The age mature adult cats were the least likely to visit a veterinarian in 2024. Only 16% of cats in this range received care, despite this being a critical pre-senior stage. Re-engaging this cohort represents a meaningful opportunity for early intervention and loyalty-building.
1.5 million
The number of medically insured cats, which tripled between 2020 and 2024. This demonstrates a growing willingness to finance comprehensive care and remove cost as a care barrier.
Photo credits:
- istockphoto.com/Kwangmoozaa
- istockphoto.com/Ruslana Chub
- istockphoto.com/skodonnell
