Are We Pet-Obsessed? A Look at Singapore’s Growing Pet Culture this National Pet Month

Last updated: April 4, 2025

Gone are the days when pets were simply kept for companionship or home security. Today, dogs and cats are cherished like children—affectionately called “fur babies”—and treated as full-fledged family members. As we celebrate National Pet Month, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on how pet culture in Singapore has evolved and why it’s booming like never before. Let's dive into how the pet culture in Singapore have grown throughout the years!

Pet ownership in Singapore has steadily climbed over the past decade, especially among millennials and young families. A study by Euromonitor showed a significant increase in pet ownership post-COVID, with more households turning to pets for emotional comfort during lockdowns.

What’s interesting is the shift in who’s owning pets: singles, young couples, and even elderly Singaporeans are embracing pet parenting. The traditional nuclear family model is expanding to include four-legged members, especially as more people delay marriage or choose not to have children.

According to AVS (Animal & Veterinary Service), the number of licensed dogs alone in Singapore grew from about 70,000 in 2019 to over 87,000 in 2022. With cats and other companion animals increasingly popular in HDB and condo settings, the overall number of pets is likely much higher.

This growing acceptance is also reflected in policies. For instance, the HDB's Project ADORE, which allows certain mixed-breed dogs in public housing, shows a more inclusive stance toward pet ownership. Additionally, the surge in pet-focused businesses — from boutique groomers to pet taxis and pet bakeries — demonstrates how pet ownership is becoming more deeply woven into Singapore's lifestyle economy.

In Singapore’s fast-paced urban environment, pets are proving to be emotional anchors. Whether it’s a cat curling up beside you after a long workday or a dog that motivates daily walks, the mental wellness benefits of pet ownership are undeniable.

Beyond companionship, pets help build structure in daily routines—walking a dog in the morning or feeding your cat on schedule fosters responsibility and stability, which can positively affect mental health. They also reduce stress levels; research has shown that just petting an animal can lower cortisol and blood pressure.

Many paw-rents share how their pets helped them cope with anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Pets provided non-judgmental presence during stressful periods like the pandemic, work-from-home transitions, or major life changes.

 
Some workplaces and educational institutions are even beginning to explore pet-friendly policies, acknowledging the emotional value animals bring:

• Carousell, an online marketplace, has a pet-friendly office environment, allowing employees to bring their pets to work, which fosters a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.
• The Cat Café in Bugis not only promotes feline therapy but partners with organisations to raise awareness around the emotional benefits of cat companionship.
• Universities like Natinal Univerty of Singapore have hosted stress-relief events with therapy animals during exam seasons, helping students unwind and refocus.
  
  

Singapore’s pet industry is not just growing—it’s thriving with a flair for luxury. Today’s pet parents aren’t just looking for the basics; they’re indulging their pets with services and products that rival human standards. From boutique grooming salons to five-star staycations, pampering pets has become part of everyday life for many.

Upscale grooming salons offer spa packages that include bubble baths, essential oil treatments, and paw-dicures. Check out these 9 Best Dog & Cat Grooming Services in Singapore! Meanwhile, gourmet pet bakeries like BarknBake and The Barkery Singapore create custom cakes and cupcakes for birthdays and Gotcha Days—some even offering halal and vegan options.

Pet -friendly cafes are on the rise too, where animal lovers can interact with resident cats or dogs while enjoying refreshments like these 15 Best Pet Cafes To Visit With Your Pets in Singapore! Pet-friendly hotels offering pet packages that include beds, treats, and exclusive room service menus. On top of that, local pet taxis and chauffeur services help busy paw-rents shuttle their pets to appointments in comfort and style. Check out these 7 Pet Taxis You Must Try in Singapore!

Personalised collars, luxury strollers, and designer outfits are common, especially during festive seasons like Chinese New Year or Hari Raya. Even tech-based products from brands like Smartpaw, such as automatic feeders, pet cameras, and air purifiers, are helping pet owners elevate daily care with convenience and a touch of sophistication.

Are you a pet spoiler? You are if you've done one of these things below:

• Do you throw birthday parties for your pet?
• Have you bought them more than 3 outfits?
• Do they have their own IG account?
• 
  If you answered “yes” to at least two... you're guilty as charged!
  

Social media has become one of the biggest drivers of pet culture in Singapore. With the rise of platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, pet owners are now content creators, sharing every moment of their pets’ lives—from their first walk to their spa day or birthday bash. This visibility has elevated pets from family companions to online personalities with fan bases of their own.

In Singapore, the pet influencer scene is thriving, drawing thousands of followers and collaborating with pet brands and lifestyle labels alike. These furry stars often promote pet products, review treats and toys, and appear in campaigns for grooming salons, cafés, and smart tech brands like us at Smartpaw. You will spot some of our pet influencers like @toto.isme.maltipoo, @mocha.bearry, @cookieinanookie, & more!

What’s more, pet owners are also investing in professional photography and themed shoots to build their pets’ “brand.” Some even launch dedicated YouTube channels or blogs sharing pet care tips, grooming routines, and product hauls. Beyond entertainment, these influencers often promote adoption, responsible ownership, and animal welfare causes—using their reach for good.

Terms like “paw-rents” and “fur babies” have become the norm, replacing “pet owners.” This shift in language reflects a deeper emotional transformation—pets are now being seen and treated as family members, not just companions.

Many Singaporeans go above and beyond to include their pets in important milestones and traditions. Birthday parties for pets are now complete with custom cakes, themed decorations, and even party guests—both furry and human. Gotcha Days (adoption anniversaries) are marked with gifts, heartfelt social media posts, and paw-shaped balloons.

It’s also increasingly common to see pets featured in annual family portraits, especially during festive seasons like Chinese New Year or Hari Raya. Some couples include their pets in wedding ceremonies and pre-wedding photoshoots, dressing them up in matching outfits. Others plan their holidays around pet-friendly accommodations or opt for staycations that include their fur kids.

This cultural shift is also influencing consumer behaviour. Pet-friendly cafes and shopping malls are flourishing, and brands like Smartpaw offer stylish, functional, and health-focused products tailored to modern pet households. From custom feeders to sleek home gadgets, these items reinforce the idea that pets deserve the same level of care and comfort as their humans.

The growing sentiment is clear: pets are no longer sidekicks—they are cherished family members who bring love, joy, and emotional richness to everyday life.

But with growing obsession comes greater responsibility. While it’s heartwarming to see pets being pampered and adored, it's also important to recognise the full scope of what responsible pet ownership entails.

Unfortunately, Singapore has seen a rise in pet abandonment cases, often triggered by impulse adoptions, lifestyle changes, or lack of understanding about the long-term commitment that pets require. Some families find themselves overwhelmed by grooming needs, health issues, or behavioural challenges they weren’t prepared for.

As we celebrate National Pet Month, it’s essential to reflect on the less glamorous, but equally important, aspects of pet parenting:

• Financial commitment: Beyond food, pets need vaccinations, regular vet check-ups, dental care, and emergency support. These can add up quickly.
• Time investment: Pets need more than cuddles. They require daily exercise, stimulation, play, and training—especially for energetic breeds or young animals.
• Lifestyle compatibility: Before adopting, it’s crucial to assess whether your living space, work schedule, and family members are all aligned with the pet's needs.
• Lifelong care: Pets are not temporary companions. Dogs and cats can live 10–20 years or more. They deserve love and attention at every life stage, including when they grow old and require extra care.
  

Being a paw-rent is a joy, but it’s also a responsibility. Let’s treat it with the care and commitment it deserves!

Singapore’s pet culture is a fascinating reflection of our emotional needs, evolving family structures, and lifestyle choices. What started as simple companionship has blossomed into a full-fledged cultural shift—and yes, we might just be a little pet-obsessed.

As we mark National Pet Month, let’s celebrate the joy pets bring into our lives while staying mindful of the commitment they require. Whether you’re a new paw-rent or a seasoned one, now’s the perfect time to reflect on how your furry friend has shaped your life!

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