According to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) the number of pets in UK homes is now a staggering 34 million.
The surge in demand for domestic animals is being driven by younger people, with two thirds of new pet owners aged 16-34, while over half have children at home.
Here are the 20 most popular types of pet in Britain.
17. Rats
The may not have the best reputation, but rats can make great pets. 0.4 per cent of UK households have got beyond the negative preconceptions and have welcomed one of these highly intelligent animals into their family. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
18. Insects
From stick insects and giant cockroaches, to bees and beetles, 0.3 per cent of us willingly share our homes with pet insects. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
19. Newts and Salamanders
For around 0.3 per cent of us newts and salamanders are the pet of choice. The most popular is the Tiger Salamander due to their beautiful, unique coloring and their easy-going nature. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
20. Ferret
Thought to be descended from the European Polecat, historically the domesticated ferret was historically used to hunt rabbits and rodents. Now they are more likely to be kept as family pets by 0.2 per cent of UK households. Photo: Canva/Getty Images