South Africa’s annual General Household Survey now includes, for the first time, credible national statistics on pet ownership!
Cape Town, South Africa (03 June 2026) – Stats SA’s General Household Survey has, for the first time, included credible national data on owned companion animals in South Africa.
The General Household Survey, or GHS, is an annual survey in which Stats SA visits thousands of ordinary homes across the country to build a clear picture of how South Africans are living.
It looks at everything from access to clean water and electricity, to schooling, food security and healthcare. It is one of the most trusted sources of national data available, and so the inclusion of pet ownership statistics is significant!
Until now, there has been no reliable, verifiable national data on how many companion animals South Africans own. We’ve always said that South Africa is a nation of animal lovers, but now there’s better proof to back it up!
The new data shows that 7.4 million dogs are owned by 4.2 million households, making up 21% of all households in the country. A further 2 million cats are owned by 1.3 million households, making up 6.4% of all households.
According to FOUR PAWS, these reliable pet population numbers provide a critical foundation for evidence-based policy reform and humane population management.
The organisation formally requested that Stats SA include pet-related questions in the GHS, backing that request with direct engagement with the institution
“We are incredibly encouraged by the openness and responsiveness of Stats SA,” says Nicola van Wyk, Policy Advisor at FOUR PAWS South Africa. “Their willingness to engage and act on our request has made this milestone possible. For the first time, we have reliable national, provincial, and metropolitan data on owned pet populations, giving us a critical foundation for evidence-based policy reform and humane population management.”
The current data only covers owned pets – stray dogs and cats remain uncounted, which means that the full picture of South Africa’s companion animal data isn’t yet in view. FOUR PAWS is continuing to work with Stats SA to expand future surveys to include sterilisation rates, access to veterinary care, disease management and responsible ownership indicators.
Related Stories
Soshanguve Animal Shelter Urgently Needs Your Help to Feed Vulnerable Rescue Dogs
Baaaaa! Two Goats Are Running for Mayor in Joburg and You Can Vote!The new stats are a meaningful step in the right direction for our animals, communities, and public health!
by 
