In recent data, Thailand has established itself as the eighth-largest cat-owning nation globally, reflecting a boom in the pet ownership sector.

According to reports from the Impact Exhibition Management Company, the market for cats in Thailand has surpassed that of dogs for the first time, growing at 32.1% compared to a 31.6% increase in the dog market.

This significant shift underscores changing pet ownership dynamics, particularly among younger demographics, especially Generation Z, who are increasingly treating pets as family members.

Gulwadi Jintawe, Executive Director at Impact Exhibition Management, noted that the overall pet market in Thailand is projected to continue expanding, with an estimated value of 75 billion baht in 2024, a 12.4% increase from the previous year.

This growth is indicative of a robust pet industry, with cat owners' numbers rising markedly.

From the beginning of 2024, the growth rates have been closely competitive among pet owners, with dog ownership increasing by 40.4% while cat ownership saw a rise of 37.1%.

However, projections for 2025 show a pivotal change, with the cat market outpacing the dog market for the first time, highlighting a significant rise in cat ownership across Thailand.

The number of cat owners in Thailand has been reported to be one of the highest worldwide, with approximately 3,337,458 cats in the country, placing Thailand 14th globally in terms of cat population.

On average, Thai cat owners spend about 14,200 baht annually on their pets, equivalent to approximately 1,183 baht per month, with an observed 14% increase in adoptions of stray cats since 2019.

Globally, the cat market is showing promising growth as well.

Research indicates that Generation Z, despite often being renters and lacking permanent homes, place a high value on pet ownership, with 74% opting for pet insurance to manage unexpected expenses.

In global markets, Gen Z cat owners spend an average of 72,624 baht (or about 6,052 baht monthly) annually on their pets, covering food, toys, grooming, and healthcare, such as veterinary check-ups and vaccinations.

Additional insights reveal that many cat owners are willing to spend significant amounts, averaging 10,200 baht, for emergency care, including surgeries and diagnostic tests such as X-rays and blood tests.

In response to the ongoing demand in the pet market, Impact Exhibition Management is organizing the 'Thailand Cat Lovers Fair 2025,' set to be the largest cat lover event in the country.

Scheduled from March 28 to March 30, 2025, this event will utilize over 5,000 square meters at the Impact Exhibition and Convention Center in Muang Thong Thani.

The fair aims to assemble over 300 product and service offerings from more than 150 booths, establishing the 'Impact Cat Fair' as a prominent brand within the cat lover community.

The fair will showcase a comprehensive range of products and services tailored to cat enthusiasts, including health foods, grooming accessories, tech innovations, and specialized services such as pet-friendly accommodations, health centers, and mental wellness services for cats.

The event expectations include over 15,000 attendees and a projected economic impact exceeding 10 million baht over the three days, which will serve as a crucial stimulus for the pet industry.

This positive momentum in pet ownership and the upcoming fair illustrate the evolving landscape of shared lives between humans and their feline companions in Thailand, contributing significantly to the economy and to social trends around pet care.