Countries with the most cats have always attracted attention, especially among animal lovers and travelers. Cats are everywhere in our daily lives—at home, on the streets, in parks, and even in ancient cities. While there is no exact number for how many cats live worldwide, experts estimate that the global cat population ranges between 600 million and 1 billion. These numbers include domestic pets, street cats, and semi-wild populations.
Recent international research based on official pet registrations, veterinary records, and field studies has revealed a detailed ranking of countries with the most cats. The results surprised many people, especially when it came to Turkey, a country globally known as a true “cat city.” Despite its reputation, Turkey’s actual position on the list shocked cat lovers around the world.
How Are Global Cat Numbers Calculated?
Counting cats is not as easy as it sounds. Unlike dogs, many cats live without owners, especially in urban areas. In some countries, cats are registered officially, while in others, they are not tracked at all.
To solve this problem, scientists and researchers rely on:
- Official pet registration databases
- Veterinary clinic records
- Animal welfare organization reports
- Field observations and statistical modeling
By combining these sources, experts create estimated national cat populations, giving us the most reliable global ranking possible.
Why Cats Are So Common Worldwide
Cats have lived alongside humans for thousands of years. Unlike many domesticated animals, cats adapted naturally to human settlements, especially in agricultural societies where rodents were a problem.
Today, cats thrive because:
- They adapt easily to urban environments
- They require less space than many pets
- They can survive independently
- Many cultures value and protect them
This is especially true in Mediterranean and Asian countries, where street cats are often fed and cared for by local communities.
Top Countries with the Most Cats
Below are the countries that dominate the global list based on estimated populations.
1. United States – 74.2 Million
The United States ranks first among countries with the most cats. Pet ownership is extremely common, and cats are often preferred due to their low-maintenance lifestyle.
2. China – 53.1 Million
China’s rapidly growing middle class and urban living have increased cat adoption significantly in recent years.
3. Russia – 23.1 Million
Cats are deeply embedded in Russian culture, often seen as symbols of comfort and good luck.
4. Germany – 15.2 Million
5. France – 14.9 Million
6. Brazil – 13 Million
7. United Kingdom – 12.2 Million
8. Italy – 10.5 Million
9. India – 10 Million
10. Japan – 9.6 Million
These countries have strong pet cultures, advanced veterinary services, and widespread animal welfare awareness.
Middle of the List: Surprising Entries
Countries like Canada (7.4 million), Mexico (7 million), Poland (6.6 million), and Spain (6.4 million) fall into the middle range. While they may not lead the list, their cat populations remain significant.
Turkey’s Shocking Position on the List
Turkey, often called a “cat paradise”, ranks 24th globally with an estimated 2.4 million cats.
This result surprised many people. Cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara are famous for their street cats, public feeding stations, and community care. Tourists frequently describe Turkey as one of the most cat-friendly countries in the world.
So why is Turkey not higher?
Key Reasons:
- Many cats are not officially registered
- Large street cat populations are hard to estimate
- Lack of centralized pet data systems
- Cats live semi-independently rather than as owned pets
Experts believe the real number may be much higher, but without official tracking, Turkey’s ranking remains lower than expected.
Cultural Differences in Cat Care
Cat populations are not only about numbers—they reflect culture.
- In Western countries, cats are usually indoor pets
- In Turkey and parts of Southern Europe, cats live freely outdoors
- In Asia, cat cafés and apartment-friendly pets boost ownership
- In developing regions, cats often live semi-wild
Turkey stands out because cats are considered shared community members, not owned animals.
Why Turkey Is Still a “Cat Country”
Despite ranking 24th, Turkey remains unique:
- Street cats are protected by law
- Citizens feed and shelter cats voluntarily
- Municipalities support sterilization programs
- Cats freely enter shops, cafes, and homes
Few countries offer such freedom and social acceptance to animals.
The Bottom of the Ranking
Countries with smaller populations or rural lifestyles naturally have fewer cats. Nations such as Iraq, Ghana, Libya, Kyrgyzstan, and Georgia appear at the lower end, mostly due to limited urban density and lower pet ownership rates.
Final Thoughts
The ranking of countries with the most cats reveals more than just numbers—it shows how societies live with animals. While the United States and China dominate the list statistically, countries like Turkey stand out culturally.
Turkey’s lower ranking may shock many, but its streets tell a different story. Here, cats are not just pets—they are neighbors, symbols, and part of everyday life.
As research methods improve and registration systems expand, Turkey’s true position may one day be much higher.