Bigstock Feline clinical visits at U.S. veterinary practices increased 2.7 percent year over year in the third quarter of 2026, while canine visits declined 3.3 percent, according to Vetsource data reported in the CATalyst Council’s Feline Veterinary Market Insights: Volume VII. Feline visits have increased in each of the past 12 quarters, while canine visits declined in 11. Cats accounted for 24 percent of companion animal clinical visits in Q3 2026, up from 21 percent three years earlier. Despite cats representing 46 percent of household cats and dogs, only about one-third of household cats visit a traditional veterinary practice annually. The report also highlights concerns about future patient volume. Kitten visits from July through September were down 0.9 percent compared with the same period in 2025, but remain on track to finish fiscal 2027 about 11 percent above pre-pandemic levels. Puppy visits fell 10 percent, potentially leaving them 44 percent below the 2018-19 baseline. Across all species, clinical visits declined 1.9 percent year over year. CATalyst Council representatives say these trends make feline care a strategic priority. With fewer puppies entering households, practices may face sustained declines in canine visits, increasing the importance of retaining feline patients as they age. The council encourages veterinary teams to address barriers to feline care and turn kitten appointments into lifelong client relationships.
