National Pet Month returns in 2026 with an extended campaign running from April 1 to May 5, shining a spotlight on pet welfare, responsible ownership and the positive role companion animals play in our lives.
This year’s campaign takes place at a pivotal moment for UK pet owners, as the new Renters’ Rights Act comes into force on May 1, 2026, changing the rules around pets in rented homes.
With an extra week added, #NPM26 creates more space to share practical advice from pet and vet professionals, highlight good pet care and celebrate the animals who enrich everyday life for millions of UK families.
Organisers said to look out for Top 10 Tips for responsible pet ownership, updated for 2026 and offering clear, everyday guidance for those of us who share our lives with companion animals.
Across themed weeks, National Pet Month will bring the five key welfare needs to life through expert insight, #NPMLive shows and real stories from pet owners across the country.
The five key welfare needs are:
- Companionship;
- Behaviour;
- Diet;
- Health; and
- Environment.
Here are some of the things to look forward to in this year’s campaign:
Week 1 (April 1-7) Companionship
Organisers will highlight companion support animals, rabbit bonding and companionship, bust the myths around rats and showcase why they can make intelligent, engaging pets.
Week 2 (April 8-14) Behaviour
Taking a deep dive into masking in cats, organisers will show you how to spot behavioural changes and when to seek veterinary advice. They’ll also look at how major life moments, such as a new baby or moving home, can impact our animals, and what owners can do to support them.
Week 3 (April 15-21) Diet
Organisers will focus on balanced feeding, explaining what a complete and balanced diet looks like in practice, while helping owners navigate the wide range of options available to suit different pets, preferences, and budgets.
Week 4 (April 22-28) Health
This week, organisers will be shining a spotlight on vaccinations, vet visits, building positive relationships with veterinary teams, discussing pet bereavement and the role routine plays in supporting our pets’ mental and physical wellbeing.
Week 5 (April 29 – May 5) Environment
This week is about prevention over cure, responsible use of antiparasitic medicines and the implications of the Renters’ Rights Act as it comes into force on May 1.
From practical and fun tips to myth-busting advice and national policy changes, #NPM26 promises to offer something for everyone, combining support to celebration for UK pets and their owners.
Nicole Paley, deputy chief executive at UK Pet Food, said: “National Pet Month is a great chance to celebrate the joy, companionship and comfort pets bring to our lives. It’s also an opportunity to share simple steps that help animals live happy, healthy lives with the families who love them.
“With rental reforms coming into force on May 1 and giving tenants the right to request a pet, this year’s campaign feels especially timely, supporting more people to continue enjoying the unique bond they share with their animals.”
Dawn Howard, NOAH chief executive, added: “National Pet Month is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the happiness that companionship with our pets brings to us, but it’s also a fitting reminder of the responsibility we all share to keep them healthy.
“This National Pet Month, we are encouraging all pet owners to work closely with their vets, and animal health professionals, to follow advice carefully, and play their part in recognising that the health of people, animals, and the environment are all closely connected. Keeping our pets healthy and happy also supports healthier people and a healthier planet.”
