Europe Split into Two Pet Zones: Dogberia and Catdinavia, Study Finds

FEDIAF Survey Reveals Continental Pet Preferences

According to Radiotrek — Світ: On July 3, 2026, the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) released a survey that humorously divides Europe into two regions-Dogberia and Catdinavia-based on dog and cat ownership data. According to the findings, roughly 31% of European households own at least one dog, while 29% have at least one cat, painting a detailed picture of pet distribution across the continent.

The countries with the highest proportion of dog owners include:

• Czech Republic
• Hungary
• Croatia
• Slovakia
• Spain

Spain stands out as the absolute leader: approximately 70% of its households own a dog and 56% own a cat. In the Czech Republic, about 42% of families keep dogs, compared to 23% for cats. These figures confirm a clear canine preference in these nations.

Where does Europe resemble a feline kingdom? The most cat-oriented countries are:

• Liechtenstein
• Switzerland
• Iceland
• Norway
• Austria

In Liechtenstein, around 31% of families own a cat, versus just 12% who own a dog-a stark contrast that highlights a strong feline preference in these regions.

Ukraine reveals an interesting dynamic: roughly 30% of households have at least one cat, while about 19% own a dog. This mirrors trends seen in some European countries where cat ownership edges out dog ownership.

The study also notes that in Finland, Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Kosovo, Moldova, Albania, and several other nations, the share of dog and cat owners is nearly equal. This balance points to diverse pet-keeping habits across Europe.

As FEDIAF explains, 'it shows how Europeans' lifestyles are changing, what conditions they create for pets, and even what modern urban life looks like in different countries.'

The survey offers valuable insights for understanding pet ownership trends across Europe, with implications for the animal product and service market. The popularity split between dogs and cats can shape strategies for pet food and accessory manufacturers, as well as influence animal welfare policies. Additionally, the findings underscore cultural differences that affect pet choices, providing useful data for sociologists and marketers.