The percentage of people who have birthday parties for their pets varies depending on the demographic and type of pet, but several key figures emerge from recent data:
- Around 27% of dog owners and 20% of cat owners in the U.S. have hosted a birthday or holiday party for their pets
- A survey from New Zealand found that 71.3% of pet owners believe a pet's birthday warrants a celebration, often including parties with both human and pet guests
- Among younger generations, Gen Z and millennial pet parents are the most likely to throw birthday parties for their pets, with 83% of Gen Z and 79% of millennials reporting they have done so
- Overall, about 22% of U.S. adults have held or attended a birthday celebration for a pet
- Celebrating a pet's birthday by buying gifts is more common, with about 66-77% of pet owners purchasing presents for their pets on their birthdays
In summary, roughly one-fifth to one-quarter of pet owners host actual birthday parties for their pets, with higher rates among younger generations, while a larger majority celebrate with gifts or other gestures. Dogs tend to have birthday parties more often than cats, and celebrations can range from small gatherings to elaborate events
