New research has revealed the UK’s most lost cat breeds, with a well-loved kitty topping the list
It’s heartbreaking when cats and dogs go missing, but new research has revealed which breeds are more likely to wander off from their homes. The study, conducted by Go Compare pet insurance, analysed data from the National Pet Register to determine which breeds are most likely to go missing.
Tabbies and British shorthairs are among the cat breeds most frequently reported missing. However, pedigree breeds such as Bengal, Siamese and ragdoll cats also feature in the top 10 list, despite their unique characteristics.
The list of most lost cats by breed includes:
1. Domestic shorthair/moggy
2. Tabby
3. British shorthair
4. Semi-long hair
5. Mixed breed
The other breeds on the list include, the Bengal, Tortoiseshell, Maine coon, Ragdoll and lastly the striking Siamese.
Rhys Jones, a pet insurance expert at Go Compare, said: “Unfortunately, sometimes our pets will get lost, whether your dog runs off on a walk or your cat wanders too far from home, but there are steps owners can take to protect their animals.
“Microchipping is the number one way to do this. If your pet is lost, the microchip can identify them and help you reunite. This is mandatory for cats and dogs, but is worth considering for other animals, too. Plus, some pet insurance policies will only provide cover for a lost pet if they’ve been microchipped.
“Pet insurance is another important way of protecting your animal, as you might be able to claim for related costs, like advertising. Sometimes, they’ll offer cover for a reward if your pet is found, too, or provide compensation if they aren’t.”
The dog breeds mostly likely to go missing have also been listed. The terrier has been dubbed the UK’s most misplaced breed, with these dogs having the highest number currently listed as missing, according to fresh research.
Out of over 50 different dog breeds, terriers were found to be the most frequently lost. Other dogs in the top ten include crossbreeds, Jack Russells and Spaniels.
However, terriers, encompassing Yorkshire terriers and border terriers, appear on the register more often than any other breed.
Here are the top five dog breeds most likely to get lost:
1. Terrier
2. Cross mixed (unspecified)
3. Jack Russell
4. Spaniel
5. Chihuahua
6. Bulldog
Other pooches on the list are Labradors, Lurchers, Collie and Huskies.
More information about the research on the UK’s lost pets is available on Go Compare’s website.
