In 2023, Taiwan witnessed a notable demographic shift as the number of registered pet dogs and cats surpassed that of newborn infants by nearly 100,000, signaling a significant societal trend towards pet ownership over childbirth.
According to reports from CNA, Taiwan, which is on the trajectory to evolve into a “super-aged society” this year, documented 232,196 registered dogs and cats in 2023, overshadowing the 135,571 newborns recorded in the same period. This phenomenon underscores a growing preference for companionship through pets amidst declining birth rates.
This surge in pet ownership is not isolated but reflects broader demographic patterns. Over the past five years, despite an increase in the number of pediatricians, Taiwan’s population growth rate has decelerated. Statistics from the Taiwan Medical Association reveal that while there were 3,077 pediatricians in 2022, the number of newborns has remained relatively stagnant.
In contrast, the demand for veterinary services has surged. Deputy director-general of the Ministry of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency, Hsu Jung-pin, reported a notable rise in the number of veterinarians across Taiwan, with a significant portion specializing in “companion animal medicine.”
Urban centers particularly witness a high concentration of veterinary professionals, with regions like Hsinchu, New Taipei, and Kaohsiung boasting proportions exceeding 70%. This trend underscores the growing importance of pet healthcare in densely populated areas.
Moreover, veterinary care for companion animals has emerged as the dominant sector within the profession, with more than half of veterinarians practicing in animal hospitals or clinics across various counties and cities. This shift is indicative of evolving societal attitudes towards pets, which are increasingly viewed as integral members of households.
President of the Taipei Veterinary Medical Association, Yang Hsiao-po, emphasized the therapeutic role of pets in human lives, noting their potential to enhance well-being and extend lifespans. Yang’s observation reflects a broader recognition of the emotional and physical benefits associated with pet ownership.
In conclusion, Taiwan’s evolving demographic landscape underscores a notable shift towards pet-centric lifestyles, with dogs and cats increasingly outnumbering newborns. This trend not only reflects changing societal preferences but also highlights the growing importance of veterinary care in meeting the needs of an expanding pet population.
