Pet-friendly Hong Kong: a new era for pet ownership in the city?

In recent months, you could say it has been raining cats and dogs in the city; occasionally dramatically, in the case of Typhoon Ragasa. But inclement weather aside, actual pets – the feathered, finned and furry variety – have also been making a splash in the headlines.

And that is because pet ownership is a growing trend in Hong Kong. One publication attributes this phenomenon to the recent pandemic (we all spent a lot of time getting cosy at home, didn’t we) and the aging population. Whatever the reason, it seems pets are here to stay. And who can blame us? They are a force for good in our lives. Dogs need to be taken for walks, which means we also get plenty of exercise. Cats make wonderful companions for all the family, and can be a great source of comfort to older individuals or people living alone. And children learn about responsibility from an early age when they have a turtle, a goldfish or indeed any creature at all.

What’s more, pets are big business. A recent report about cat ownership in the city found that the local market is estimated to be worth around HK$2.4 billion a year, with owners spending HK$2,000 on their feline companions every month. And to cater to this new trend, Hong Kong is making a big effort to be more pet friendly.

During his 2025 Policy Address in September, Chief Executive John Lee noted that more than 240,000 households in Hong Kong keep some 400,000 cats and dogs as pets, which presents an “enormous consumption market”, also known as the “pet economy”. One proposal is to allow dogs in permitted restaurants, which would not only solve the logistical nightmare for owners of finding somewhere to eat without leaving the poor pooch at home, it could also be beneficial for Hong Kong’s food and beverage sector.

Another example of a pet-friendly policy in action can be found at the West Kowloon Cultural District. The arts and cultural hub recently unveiled plans for greater pet inclusivity via its WestK Pet Club and pet-friendly bicycle rental service. Families can gather with their pets and let them roam and socialise with other furry friends. There are even climbing frames and hurdles for active animals who wish to run, jump and explore!

There was further good news for cats and dogs in the north-western New Territories this summer when the MTR Corporation announced they could travel on MTR light rail trains at weekends and on public holidays. While opportunities for taking pets on the wider network don’t currently exist, the move is certainly a step forward in pet inclusivity and has been welcomed by many. A survey of pet-owning and non-pet-owning passengers, carried out by the MTR Corp, found that over 95% of respondents were in favour of the scheme.

If you are considering joining the growing trend and getting a pet in Hong Kong, make sure you purchase suitable insurance for your new addition to the family. Often, Pet Insurance products on the market provide comprehensive coverage, surgical expenses, coverage for specified hereditary and congenital conditions, and third-party legal liability. That way, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your feline or canine companion is in good hands and that you are protected financially.

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Read more:
Why cats and dogs really are good for your health
Understanding pet insurance: A journey towards ensuring the health of your beloved companion
Lifelong protection for our furry friends