Majority of Laois cats owners say feline friends are misunderstood

MORE than 90% of Irish cat owners believe their feline friends are misunderstood, new research shows.

Many owners see their cats as far more than just pets, frequently describing them as loyal companions, quirky family members and reliable sources of comfort, calm and joy.

Cat ownership is thriving across both rural and urban communities in Ireland, with 69% of cat owners having adopted their pet. Of these, 40% came from rescue centres, 34% were found as strays and 26% say their cat “found them.” Additionally, 63% of cats live indoors while enjoying regular outdoor access, reflecting a clear shift in modern cat ownership as cats are being fully welcomed into the home, becoming part of everyday family life.

The nationwide report by pet retailer Petmania reveals a significant cultural shift in how cats are perceived and cared for as 93% firmly believe that we don’t understand them properly.

The Petmania Cat Report 2025, based on information from 1,500 pet owners and 20 rescue centres, sheds light on the evolving attitudes towards cats countrywide.

Despite evolving attitudes and increasing affection for cats, significant gaps remain in feline safety and identification. The report found that 45% of cats are not microchipped, 66% do not wear collars and 80% lack identification tags, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness of proper pet identification to ensure their protection.

Emily Miller, marketing manager at Petmania, said that they have “always” championed responsible pet ownership and feline welfare.

Ms Miller continued: “The report is a powerful opportunity to listen to our communities and lead meaningful change for cats across Ireland. Cats are deeply loved, but still widely misunderstood.’’ The report shows just how important cats have become to family life and makes the case for giving them the same recognition we afford dogs as affectionate, loyal and emotionally intelligent companions.

“We’re proud to stand with cat owners and rescues to lead the conversation on responsible care and create a future where every cat is safe, valued and truly seen.” The report also highlights the growing pressure on Ireland’s volunteer-run rescue network, with only two centres employing full-time staff. Foster families are reported to be in short supply, while centres care for up to 500 stray kittens annually, most of whom are abandoned, surrendered or born to unneutered strays.

Reuniting lost cats with their families remains a key priority for rescue centres, though success rates vary.

Reunification rates range from just 1% to 70%, depending on whether the cat is microchipped or carries identification. Encouragingly, 100% of rescue centres reported vaccinating and neutering cats before adoption and 40% also microchip them.

As part of its ongoing commitment to responsible pet ownership, Petmania is dedicated to supporting cat parents throughout Ireland. The retailer offers expert nutritional advice, accessible everyday healthcare and affordable microchipping, while also supporting rescue initiatives. Petmania encourages the public to stay informed, take proactive steps in their cats’ care and promote education around feline welfare nationwide.

The full report is available on petmania.ie/cat-report-2025.