U.S. PET OWNERSHIP STATISTICS

Some statistics about pet ownership in the United States:

Nearly two-thirds, or 62 percent, of households own a pet, compared with 56 percent in 1988.

Thirty-nine percent of households own dogs, 34 percent own cats.

Almost half, or 47 percent, of households own more than one type of pet.

Annual pet spending is expected to top $29 billion this year, up from the $28.5 billion spent last year.

Households will spend about $460 per pet this year.

Dogs are the most expensive to own, followed by cats and birds.

Veterinary care is the biggest annual expense, followed by food and supplies.  Go here for free online quote.

_Cats are more popular than man's best friend, with 73 million felines in the United States compared with 68 million dogs.

_Households owning a dog (40 million) have an average of 1.7 dogs in the house, while cat-owning households (34.7 million) have an average of 2.1 cats.

Source: American Pet Products Manufacturers Association

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