2021 pet statistics estimate that there are 8.1 million domestic cats1 in Canada. Cats out number dogs as the country’s most popular pet. Let’s look at everything that you need to know about cats in Canada.
Canada’s Most Popular Cat Breeds
Here are the 11 most popular cat breeds in Canada:
| Rank | Breed |
| 1 | Domestic Shorthair |
| 2 | American Shorthair |
| 3 | Domestic Longhair |
| 4 | Siamese |
| 5 | Ragdoll |
| 6 | Maine Coon |
| 7 | Bengal |
| 8 | Russian Blue |
| 9 | Sphynx |
| 10 | Persian |
| 11 | Himalayan |
Canadians’ Relationships With Cats
Since one in three households in Canada owns a cat, we wanted to know more about how Canadians feel about their cats. According to Canadian pet statistics, here’s what we know.
Canadian Wild Cats
Canada has many domestic cats, but they also have several wild cats. When people think of big cats, the lions and tigers of Asia or Africa come to mind. But did you know there are three distinctly Canadian wild cat species that roam the country? They include the Canada Lynx, Bobcat, and Cougar.
The Canada Lynx is the most widespread wild feline species, and it can be found in most forests throughout Canada and the U.S. These cats are often mistaken for Bobcats but can be distinguished by the long tufts of fur on the back legs and ears.
The Bobcat is the smallest of Canada’s wild cats. Its name comes from its tail, which is stubby and “bobbed.” It’s about three times the size of a house cat. This species is found throughout North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico. They adapt well to different climates, including swampland, forests, and even urban environments.
Cougars are the largest wild cat in Canada and the most dangerous. These powerful predators grow up to 2 metres in length and weigh up to 90 kg. They have the largest habitat range of any land mammal in the western hemisphere: They roam from the Yukon all the way to Argentina. This nocturnal cat can kill prey up to four times their size.
Fun Facts About Cats in Canada
Summary
There are approximately 8.1 million cats in Canada, and one in three households owns a cat. Cats are the most popular pets in the country. Canada can also claim the three wild “big cat” breeds that roam throughout North America.
See Also:
- 10 Best Cat Litters for Odour Control in Canada
- Are Cats or Dogs More Popular in Canada? What Statistics Say
Featured Image Credit: Lalandrew, Shutterstock
