Pet Ownership Data Reveals Indiana’s True Feelings Toward Cats

There are many folks out there who seem to prefer dogs over cats, and vice versa. But what does the data say about which pets Hoosiers actually prefer? Let’s explore.

My house is home to two cats and a dog. If you were to ask me which species I preferred, I probably couldn't give you the answer you're looking for. Simply put, I love both. Personally, I believe that if more people spent time around both cats and dogs, they would see that one is not necessarily "better" than the other—they're just different. That said, when it comes to which animal is welcomed the most in Hoosier homes, there is a clear winner.

How Many People Own Pets in Indiana?

According to pet ownership data compiled by Pawlicy Advisor, 69.2% of Indiana households are home to one or more pets. In the United States as a whole, those ages 40 to 54 tend to own the most pets, but millennials have been experiencing a higher pet ownership rate over the past decade. Dogs remain the most popular companions nationally, followed by cats, freshwater fish, birds, and reptiles. But what about in Indiana specifically?

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Do Hoosiers Prefer Dogs or Cats More?

When it comes to the Hoosier State, folks in Indiana tend to follow the national trend, with dogs edging out cats in terms of popularity. Pawlicy Advisor reports that 49.4% of Indiana households own a dog, while just 37.5% own a cat. If you're curious, the states with the highest overall rates of pet ownership include Wyoming and West Virginia.

Hoosier Dogs and Cats in Need of Homes

If you find yourself in need of a companion who won't judge you on your worst days and will only make your best days better, there are plenty of places to adopt. In addition to several shelters across the tri-state, the Vanderburgh Humane Society currently has an abundance of cats and dogs available for adoption. If you'd like to learn more about the process and see those ready to find their forever homes, click here.