1. Dogs
For lovers of cats and dogs, this news should come as no surprise: 65.1 million homes in the United States own a dog, making dogs the most popular pets.
2. Cats
Cats are the second most popular pet in the United States, with a lot of them. In 2024, they controlled 46.5 million households.
3. Freshwater Fish
11.1 million families find freshwater fish to be great companions because of their small size and low space requirements.
4. Small Animals
Small animals, which include cuddly creatures like hamsters, gerbils, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, mice, and ferrets, are the fourth most popular pet category in the United States. There are 6.7 million homes with them.
5. Birds
6.1 million homes in the United States have had birds as lifetime companions. We don't just mean forever; some bird species have lifespans of well over 60 years. Cookie, a Major Mitchell's cockatoo, was the oldest parrot and lived to be 82 years old.
6. Reptiles
Whether it's a bearded dragon, turtle, leopard gecko, or another type, 6 million American households are home to a reptile. Reptiles are abundant, much like fish, birds, and small mammals. Your decision may depend on the size of pet you can keep.
7. Horses
2.2 million American households consider a horse to be a member of the family, even though they may not live together in the same home. Horses are loving pets because, as herd animals.