Is there a rise in ‘cute cat obsession’?

New research from charity Cats Protection reveals that celebrity culture and social media are driving a boom in pedigree cat ownership – despite growing concerns over serious health and welfare issues linked to fashionable breeds.

A survey of 2,000 UK cat owners has found that more than one in five (22%) were influenced by a celebrity or influencer when choosing their cat. Among owners of pedigree breeds such as Scottish Folds, Persians and Burmese cats, that figure rises to more than half (55%).

The charity warns that many of the breeds trending online are selectively bred for exaggerated features such as folded ears, flat faces and shortened legs – characteristics that can leave cats suffering from chronic pain, mobility problems and breathing difficulties.

Aston spoke to Izzy Hocking, senior veterinary engagement manager at Cats Protection.

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