Two new polls paint a picture of the reshaped relationships maintained with our animals, and quantify more precisely the enthusiasm of Quebecers for furry companions.
The first study, commissioned by the Association of veterinary surgeons of Quebec, provides a more precise idea of the current population of domestic animals in the province. For the first time, more than half of households, or 52%, welcome a cat or a dog at home. In total, there are approximately 3.25 million muzzles in the outbreaks, 200,000 more than in the pre-pandemic period.
No doubt you have already heard of the myth of world domination conspired by cats? Well, the little felines seem to have implemented their plan, starting by cutting their teeth on Quebec: they represent the bulk of the increase in the presence of animals at home and would now constitute a veritable legion (approximately 2.13 million cats, nearly double the number of dogs, estimated at some 1.12 million).
Obviously, cats are more popular among women (42% own them, against 31% among men), in households with children, and among young people (48% among 18-34 year olds versus 26% among 55 year olds. and more).
On the dog side, they are as popular with men as they are with women, but especially popular with the 35-54 age group. Note also that 10% of Quebec households house both a cat and a dog.
Across Canada, it was noted at the start of the year that 58% of households owned a pet, while observing the same increase in the popularity of cats.
Metro, work, Fido
Another survey published this Tuesday by Royal Canin examines returns to the office and the links forged with pets, especially those adopted during the pandemic and who have never let go of their masters’ sneakers.
Highlight: 29% of Canadian pet owners say they would be more willing to return to the office if their pet could accompany them.
Indeed, more than half of respondents said that their companion helps them release stress, and about as many indicated that it provided emotional support during the pandemic. Separation anxiety would therefore not only concern animals, but also their owners.
Note, however, that Catherine Amiot, professor of psychology at UQAM, recently relativized this question of the well-being granted by domestic animals, far from being absolute.
Read the article “Relationships with our animals not so simple”