When it comes to advertising in the UK, one furry superstar consistently captures the nation’s attention — the cat. With their natural charm, quirky behaviour, and undeniable appeal, cats have become a staple in advertising campaigns, social media content, and TV spots.
Why do cats work so well in UK advertising, and which brands should consider incorporating them into their marketing strategies? We’re here to tell you that real-life cats make advertising gold.
The Nation’s Love Affair with Cats
The UK is undoubtedly a nation of cat lovers. According to UK Pet Food (formally Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association or PFMA), an estimated 12 million cats live in UK households, making them one of the most popular pets in the country, second only to dogs. Cats have a unique blend of independence and affection that resonates with British sensibilities. They’re seen as sophisticated, playful, and sometimes hilariously aloof — traits that reflect aspects of British humour and lifestyle.
This affection for cats extends well beyond pet ownership. Cats have become cultural icons, appearing in memes, viral videos, and even political commentary. From Grumpy Cat’s global fame to the heartwarming tale of A Street Cat Named Bob, feline stars have captured the imagination of millions. In a nation that’s deeply connected to the idea of home, comfort, and companionship, cats evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity, making them the perfect fit for brands that want to appeal to the public’s softer side. Let’s face it, cats really have The Cute Factor!
Why Cats Are Advertising Powerhouses
Cats’ mass appeal extends far beyond their cute and cuddly looks. They’re naturally engaging, unpredictable, and brimming with personality — all of which translates brilliantly on screen. Their ability to evoke emotion is a major asset for advertisers, who are always seeking to build emotional connections with audiences.
They’re Relatable:
Cats’ quirky, often mischievous behaviour mirrors human experiences, leading to immediate relatability. From knocking items off shelves to curling up in unexpected places, these behaviours are instantly recognisable to cat owners, making them smile with familiarity. And we have 12 million cat owners in the UK… That’s a massive audience to target.
They’re Funny:
Comedy is a cornerstone of British advertising and cats’ natural antics provide a perfect foundation for humour. Their curious nature and dramatic reactions make them ideal stars for light-hearted, feel-good commercials. In this culture, we sometimes associate cats with being quirky, perfectly expressing the eccentricities of British lifestyle. What’s not to love?
They’re Memorable:
In a crowded advertising space, brands must stand out. Cats’ exhibit behaviours, actions and mannerisms that ensure that each shot has the potential to be unique and memorable. This distinctiveness gives brands a creative edge, particularly when more unique cat breeds are used.
They’ve Got Viral Potential:
The internet’s love for cat content cannot be overstated. Viral cat videos have been a phenomenon for over a decade and this trend shows no signs of slowing. Brands that feature cats in their advertising can tap into this viral potential, increasing shareability and engagement. Cat lovers are obsessive for good reason, but they particularly love to spread that love; exactly what a brand needs!
So Which Brands Should Consider Using Cats?
Nearly every brand has the right fit for a feline star and at The Animal Talent, we’ve worked with heating companies, property companies, car brands and many more industries where cats have been a strategic asset. Here are a few suggestions of types of brands that should consider incorporating cats into their campaigns:
- Pet-Related Brands: Naturally, pet food, accessories and pet care brands have a clear opportunity to feature cats in their advertising. Demonstrating a happy, well-fed and healthy cat can effectively convey the quality and appeal of a product.
- Home and Lifestyle Brands: Cats are synonymous with comfort and home life, so brands that focus on home decor, furniture, bedding or family themes can create emotional connections by featuring cats lounging in cozy, inviting spaces or having fun playing with children, for example.
- Financial Services: It may seem like an odd match, but financial services have successfully used animals (including cats) to convey trust, calm, and stability. Cats’ knowledgeable yet unbothered demeanour can project a sense of confidence, making them perfect mascots for insurance, mortgages, and investment services.
- Technology and Media: Streaming platforms, social media apps, and tech brands have embraced cats to symbolise playfulness, curiosity, and “always-on” behaviour. Cats are a natural fit for campaigns promoting mobile apps and entertainment services, particularly given their comic nature.
- Food and Beverage: Cats’ love of food and their ability to “beg” with wide, pleading eyes make them excellent additions to campaigns for snacks, treats, or luxury food items. The idea of indulgence aligns well with the ethos of a cat’s pampered lifestyle.
Cats’ Popularity on Social Media and TV
The “cat internet” is a phenomenon that’s still going strong. Viral sensations like Suki, Nala and Lil Bub have proven that cats are a global sensation. On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, cat-related hashtags amass millions of views, providing brands with a ready-made audience for feline content.
On TV, cats’ unpredictable behaviour can lead to some of the most endearing moments in live broadcasts and reality shows. Viewers are drawn to unscripted, authentic moments and cats’ refusal to “follow the script” can result in spontaneous, unforgettable TV moments.
The Animal Talent Ltd: Your Partner for Professional Cat Models
At The Animal Talent Ltd, we have extensive experience working with professional cat models. Our team understands the unique challenges and opportunities that come with working with cats on set. We pride ourselves on our ethical approach to training and animal welfare, ensuring that our cats are comfortable, safe and happy at all times. Our trainers and handlers use positive reinforcement methods only to build trust and confidence, allowing our feline stars to deliver their best performance on cue.
When you work with The Animal Talent Ltd, you’re not just hiring a cat — you’re partnering with a team of experts dedicated to excellence. We have access to a diverse range of cat breeds, each with its own distinct look and personality. From elegant British Shorthairs to the playful and impressively sized Maine Coons, we can help you find the perfect cat to suit your brand’s image and tone.
Most Popular Cat Breeds in the UK for Advertising
Certain cat breeds stand out for their distinctive appearance and temperament, making them popular choices for advertising. Here are some of the top breed picks we think you should consider:
- British Shorthair: Known for their round faces and plush coats, British Shorthairs exude charm and sophistication. They’re calm, friendly, and adaptable, making them ideal for shoots.
- Maine Coon: With their large size and majestic appearance, Maine Coons have a striking presence. Their playful and social nature makes them highly trainable.
- Bengal: Bengals have a wild, exotic look with their leopard-like spots and sleek coats. They’re active and intelligent, often capable of learning tricks and responding to commands with ease.
- Ragdoll: Ragdolls are known for their relaxed, floppy nature and striking blue eyes. Their laid-back temperament makes them perfect for calm, home-focused scenes.
- Sphynx: With their unique hairless look, Sphynx cats stand out visually. They’re friendly, curious, and affectionate, offering a distinctive aesthetic for brands seeking something unconventional. We’ve worked with this breed many times in comedy scenes and also thrillers. They’re a highly trainable breed and visually striking.
Rounding Up
Cats’ enduring appeal, relatability, and ability to spark emotional connections make them a perfect fit for UK advertising. Their starring roles have the power to increase brand recognition, boost emotional engagement, and deliver viral potential across social media. For pet brands, a feline presence can be a game-changer.
At The Animal Talent Ltd, we’ve seen first-hand how real-life cats can transform advertising campaigns. Whether it’s a playful kitten for a light-hearted ad or a sophisticated feline for a luxury brand, cats have a natural magnetism that draws in audiences. To discover how a real-life cat could bring your next advertising campaign to life, get in touch with us today and talk to our specialist cat wranglers and handlers.
