Surge in pet ownership spurs diversified market

KUALA LUMPUR: Pet ownership in Malaysia is experiencing a significant surge, leading to a diversified market and new challenges in veterinary care and pet accommodations.

Dr Salehatul Khuzaimah Mohamad Ali, a veterinarian, said the current ratio of veterinarians to the population of one for every 14,311 individuals might seem inadequate at first glance.

“It is still acceptable since not everyone owns pets,” she said.

“Pet ownership has indeed increased, making animal companions both popular and competitive.”

However, she said the availability of veterinary services varied by region.

“Densely populated areas have multiple veterinary clinics while rural regions often lack such facilities, forcing residents to travel for veterinary care,” she said.

Dr Salehatul added that awareness among pet owners regarding veterinary services is improving but remains insufficient overall.

She also called for more universities to offer veterinary degrees in order to address the shortage of veterinarians, despite current challenges such as a lack of teaching staff.

“Many Malaysian veterinary students study abroad and return to practise locally, which also helps to some extent,” Dr Salehatul added.

Quoting Gandhi’s quote that “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated”, she said both the government and society must collaborate more effectively to improve animal welfare.

Malaysia Pet Association vice-secretary Danny Loh said there had been a notable rise in pet ownership and a growing interest in non-traditional pets among Malaysians.

“Traditionally, pet ownership used to be dominated by dogs and cats. But now it includes a wider range of pets such as turtles, snakes, birds and fish.

“This diversification has led to an increase in pet stores offering a variety of pet food to meet the needs of these different types of pets,” he said.

Loh also said the current options were sufficient for pet-friendly accommodations, as pet owners could choose from pet shops, pet hotels and pet sitters, or even rely on friends and family members when they are away.

Psychologist Assoc Prof Dr Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan said the increasing pet ownership could be attributed to the fact that pets greatly enhance mental health by reducing loneliness, anxiety and depression.

“Unlike coming back to an empty house, you’re greeted with energy and life, which can be incredibly rejuvenating.

“The feeling of belonging and the relaxation that come from interacting with pets – whether watching fish swim or playing with a dog or a cat – is crucial for mental well-being,” she said.

However, she said such mental health benefits could only be enjoyed if there were a meaningful bond and responsible care for the pets.

The University of Cyberjaya’s Dean of the Faculty of Psychology and Social Sciences said the mental health advantages depended on the relationship between the pet and owner rather than the type of pet.

“Individuals who dislike certain pets won’t experience these mental benefits. Essentially, the connection and affection you feel for your pet are what improve your mental health,” she noted.

Dr Anasuya also called for practical consideration in pet ownership.

“The responsibilities of care, including feeding, grooming and attending to health needs, must be balanced with the benefits.

“Be it rescued animals or pedigree, responsible pet ownership, including regular medical care, is crucial to maintaining both the pet’s and the owner’s well-being.

“Overall, pets can lead to a healthier lifestyle and improved mental health when the relationship is based on affection and care,” she added.