Rise of the cat economy: Thai cat population exceeds 4 million

2026-03-17 - 11:31

BANGKOK — Thailand’s shifting demographics, marked by an ageing population, rising single households and declining birth rates, are fuelling a fast-growing “cat economy”, with felines increasingly becoming the centre of urban family life. Data from ttb analytics shows the country’s pet market has been expanding at an average rate of 13–18% annually, with total market value projected to reach 101.4 billion baht in 2026, up sharply from 33 billion baht in 2019. Cats are emerging as the preferred pet in urban areas, overtaking dogs due to space constraints and fast-paced lifestyles. Research by Kasikorn Research Center estimates Thailand’s domestic cat population will grow by 20–25% per year, surpassing 4 million animals nationwide in 2026. Analysts say the surge is driven by “pet humanisation”, a trend where owners treat pets like children, now evolving into what some describe as a “petriarchy”, where pets play a central role in household decision-making. Spending patterns reflect the shift. Owners in the pet humanisation segment spend an average of 50,500 baht per pet annually — around six times higher than traditional owners. Pet food accounts for the largest share at 45%, with more than half of owners prioritising holistic or human-grade ingredients. Health and wellness services are also expanding, with annual spending ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 baht per animal, particularly among younger consumers who favour preventive care. Thailand is also strengthening its position as a global pet food exporter. According to the Department of International Trade Promotion, exports are expected to reach US$3 billion (about 105 billion baht) in 2026, driven largely by premium wet cat food made from tuna and high-quality ingredients. Industry analysts from IMPACT Exhibition Management identify several high-growth sectors within the cat economy, including functional pet food, smart pet technology, mobile grooming services, boutique cat hotels, pet-friendly real estate and pet insurance. Regulation is also tightening. Under Bangkok’s 2024 animal control ordinance, pet owners are required to microchip and digitally register animals. The rules also limit the number of pets in condominiums and rental units sized 20–80 square metres to one animal, aimed at improving hygiene and reducing urban conflicts. The developments highlight how demographic change and lifestyle shifts are transforming Thailand’s consumer economy — with cats now at the centre of a booming market.