Survey: Cats Significantly Influence Owners' Daily Lives

Premium pet food brand Nulo has released findings from a nationally representative survey indicating that cats exert a significant influence over their owners' lives. The study found that 91% of cat parents reported at least one behavior demonstrating their cat's say in their daily routines, home life, relationships, and decision-making.

The survey, conducted by Wired Research in August 2026, highlighted the multifaceted impact of cat ownership. Notably, 58% of cat parents reported engaging in full conversations with their cats, and 32% indicated they ask their cat for an opinion before making decisions.

Relationships and dating are also influenced by feline presence. 28% of adults find a potential partner more attractive if they love cats, surpassing the appeal of homeownership for 23%. Furthermore, one in four cat parents (25%) stated they would end a relationship with someone their cat disliked.

Cats also shape home environments and living spaces. Over half of cat parents (53%) would keep an unattractive piece of furniture if their cat loved it. Nearly a third (32%) would permanently give up their side of the bed for their cat.

Younger demographics, particularly Gen Z cat parents, exhibit an even stronger connection. They are more likely to leave events early to return home to their cat (31%) and to seek their cat's opinion (45%) compared to older generations. Additionally, 38% of cat parents would spend more on their cat's food than their own, and 30% would use their last $100 on their pet.

Nulo links these findings to its Prowess cat food line. Dr. Heather Mendoza, Vice President of Product Development at Nulo, stated, "These findings put numbers behind something cat parents already know: cats have a real say in how their households run. That relationship shapes everyday choices, including what cat parents put in the bowl."