The rise of the cat dad: why male cat ownership is officially a ‘green flag’

There’s a new pet icon in town, and he’s skipping the pub for quality time with his whiskered companion. Say hello to the era of the Cat Dad.

Cat ownership is soaring among young people. With nearly 10.5 million pet cats in Britain, the feline population is hot on the heels of their canine rivals. So, what's driving this feline takeover?

Are cats the ultimate modern pet?

Cats offer companionship that adapts perfectly to modern lifestyles and routines. They also offer huge emotional support and, let's be honest, they produce viral moments on tap. Plus, when it comes to the gender gap in ownership, it’s closing fast. A recent study found that 23% of men now own a cat - just 1% less than women.

And, according to new research from Mars, the company behind some of the most loved pet food brands like DREAMIES™, WHISKAS® and SHEBA®, the Cat Dad is doing more than just emptying the litter tray, he's totally redefining what it means to have a cat.

Mars is celebrating 90 years in the pet care industry, championing its purpose; A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS. Over those nine decades, they’ve seen how our relationship with animals has evolved, and their latest research is shining a light on Cat Dads, whether it’s those who currently own, or have previously owned a cat. Their study found that 47% of men who have previously, or currently own, a cat wear ‘Cat Dad’ as a badge of honour.

From celebs like Jason Momoa and Ed Sheeran, to sweet online moments, men are confidently sharing their cat love and smashing old stereotypes in the process.

‘I’d rather stay home with the cat’

Being a Cat Dad is not just a trend, it’s a way of life. Over half of Cat Dads (53%) admit they often prefer spending time with their cat over other people. In fact, four in 10 Cat Dads say they choose a night at home with their cat over a social outing.

While that might sound anti-social, owning a cat can actually have some serious social benefits, especially when it comes to dating. Among men who are navigating the dating scene, over a third (36%) say owning a cat has positively impacted their dating life overall.

Why? Well, an impressive three in 10 Brits see being a Cat Dad as a genuine dating ‘green flag’, with 39% of both Gen Z and millennials saying men who own cats are more attractive.

When people were asked what positive traits they associate with cat-owning men, the answers were overwhelmingly positive, mentioning that these men are more caring, responsible, sensitive, and even emotionally intelligent.

The team at Mars is celebrating this clear cultural shift. Dr Scott McGrane, Senior Research Manager leading the Sensory Science team at Mars, Incorporated’s Waltham Petcare Science Institute, and fellow Cat Dad said: “Our latest global pets and wellbeing research shows just how much comfort people find in their pets. In the UK, 67% of pet owners turn to their pet for support before anyone else when they’re stressed, and 78% of men with cats say their feline companion helps them quiet their minds and stop overthinking.

“It’s clear that the human–animal bond is deepening - evolving into relationships defined by emotional support, connection, and care. Cat Dads are a wonderful example of this shift. As a proud ‘Cat Dad’ myself, I’m delighted to see these relationships celebrated.”

From emotional support to giving your dating profile a boost, there are clear benefits to owning a cat. But the simple truth is that more and more men just love hanging out with their feline friends.

The Cat Dad is not a fleeting trend, he’s the new reality, and we are totally here for it.