Brazilians, “pet parents,” have been adopting more cats than dogs in the country. They represent 65% of adoptions, and according to data from the Pet Census IPB, the number of felines in Brazilian homes increased by 6% between 2020 and 2021.
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While dogs still represent the majority among pets, the growth was lower: only 4%. Dr. Vanessa Zimbres, a Veterinarian specializing in cats and director of “Gato É Gente Boa” – the first cat-specialized clinic in Itu (SP) – states that it’s important to understand this trend and points out some factors that led to this preference for cats.
“The urbanization of cities, the significant amount of time people spend away from home, increasingly smaller residences, and the choice of Brazilians to delay starting a family have positioned cats as the ideal pet because their maintenance requirements are lower compared to other animals,” she notes.
“If we provide the cat with the items it needs to be a happy cat in its environment, we don’t need much space or attention, as we can keep them company even while sleeping. A kitten can interact with us simply by lying on our lap while we watch TV, for example, and be content with that,” adds the cat specialist.
Moreover, this cohabitation brings a series of benefits for both humans and animals, highlights Dr. Vanessa. “They provide companionship and can help reduce owners’ anxiety, loneliness, and stress. The purring of a cat, for example, has proven effects in reducing blood pressure and promoting cardiovascular health,” the veterinarian lists, also pointing out the benefits for the animals themselves: “Adopted cats have the opportunity to be loved, cared for, and have a long and happy life. Many of these animals come from street situations or shelters.”
Lilian Fialho, a psychologist and mother of nine cats, agrees and recounts that she has foregone activities to stay home and enjoy time with the animals. “They help us face the busy and stressful work routine. Everything became lighter with their arrival.”
Responsible Pet Ownership
One impact of the change in the social behavior of Brazilian families is, according to the veterinarian, the lack of preparation of some pet owners, which can lead to behavioral problems for the pets. “Cats are animals with specific needs and natural behaviors that must be respected. They are semi-social animals and natural predators, so it’s important to meet their instincts with elevated resting areas and toys that stimulate their hunting behavior. Respecting the individuality of each cat is essential to ensure a healthy and happy coexistence.”
Lilian, a “cat mom,” is concerned about this and reports that she has adapted her home for the animals. “I have several tunnels spread around for them to play in, in addition, I always use sticks with objects for them to hunt, I try to make them as comfortable as possible. There are suspended beds throughout the house, scratching posts, and caves for them to enjoy and relax in.”
She also takes the cats regularly to the vet, feeds them with appropriate food, spreads water bowls around the house, and has protective screens on the windows so they don’t escape. Actions approved by expert Vanessa: “Only then can the quality of life of the cats be guaranteed,” she concludes.
This content was created with the assistance of AI.
