New Jersey Animal Shelter Trends Show Cats Surging Ahead While Dogs Linger in 2025

In the heart of New Jersey, animal shelter dynamics are shifting dramatically this year.

Young adults, especially from Generation Z, are driving a boom in cat adoptions, drawn to their easygoing nature amid busy lives.

Yet, this heartwarming rise hides a sadder reality for dogs, particularly larger breeds facing longer waits.

Recent data highlights how housing shortages and rising costs in places like Newark and Jersey City push people toward felines.

Jersey City Animal Care & Control just earned no-kill status for 2025, a milestone celebrated with discounted adoptions all August.

Statewide, cat adoptions have doubled per shelter compared to dogs, with numbers climbing 2% nationally mid-year.

But dog surrenders are up, tied to evictions, vet bills, and return-to-office demands that clash with canine needs.

Shelter leaders in South Jersey, including the newly merged Associated Humane Societies South, are innovating with foster programs and training to boost dog placements.

One local adopter shared how her cat fits perfectly into apartment life, avoiding the yard requirements a big dog demands.

As New Jersey pushes toward no-kill goals, community support could turn the tide for these overlooked pups.

With trends showing 64% cat adoption rates versus declining dog figures, it's clear change is needed now.