The 2026 data reveals that 76% of cities featured in last year’s rankings maintained their positions, signaling consistent enthusiasm for cat ownership across these regions. According to Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities, the independence of cats makes them an ideal match for diverse living arrangements, helping them thrive in smaller spaces. Following Lexington, the top tier includes Mount Juliet, Tennessee, and Spokane, Washington, with six new entries breaking into the top 25, such as Spokane Valley and Livonia.
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Lexington Leads the Pack in PetSmart's 2026 Cat-Loving City Rankings
For the second consecutive year, Lexington, Kentucky, holds the top spot in PetSmart’s annual ranking of the most cat-friendly cities in the U.S. The list, dominated by suburbs and mid-size urban areas, highlights a growing trend of feline companionship driven by rising adoption rates and increased spending on premium pet products.
The rankings were derived from a weighted analysis of internal data collected between June 2025 and June 2026, balancing adoption records from PetSmart Charities with consumer purchasing habits for toys, treats, and furniture. To account for market size, the results were indexed against the number of store locations per city. This report coincides with the peak of “kitten season,” prompting PetSmart to host its National Adoption Week from July 20 to 26. During this period, the retailer is incentivizing prospective owners with VIPP status and significant savings on supplies to encourage long-term commitment to their new feline companions.
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