PetMall Knowledge Hub
New Zealand's Pet Encyclopedia
Compare dog and cat breeds, read NZ-specific care advice, and shortlist pets that fit your home, family, climate, and daily rhythm.
Abyssinian
Active, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Gentle
Abyssinian Guinea Pig
Social guinea pig breed that does best with compatible companionship and gentle handling.
Ackie Monitor
Enclosure-focused reptile with handling tolerance and activity needs that should be checked in a species-specific care guide.
Aegean
Affectionate, Social, Intelligent, Playful, Active
Affenpinscher
Confident, alert, playful, loyal, courageous
Afghan Hound
Independent, dignified, aloof, loyal, confident
Today's Breed
Eclectus Parrot
Eclectus Parrot is a medium bird originating from Solomon Islands. PetMall has an official-source NZ status note for this listing; follow the listed MPI, DOC, EPA, and local council conditions before sourcing one. Typical lifespan is 30-40 years.
Today's Breed
Egyptian Mau
The fastest domestic cat. Athletic spotted beauties that are loyal, intelligent, and possess a unique chirruping voice. Caring for an Egyptian Mau in New Zealand involves meeting their physical and mental needs to ensure a happy, healthy life.
Today's Breed
Electric Eel
Electric Eel is a large fish originating from South America. Its NZ legal status has not yet been verified against official MPI, EPA, DOC and council records, so don't source, import, breed, sell or keep one on the strength of this profile alone. Check MPI, EPA, DOC, and local council rules before sourcing one. Typical lifespan is 10-22 years.
Find Your Perfect Pet
Whippet
A gentle, quiet, and affectionate medium-sized sighthound. Famous for its incredible 60kph sprinting speed coupled with a calm, lazy indoor demeanor. Low grooming needs but requires winter coats.
Australian Mist
Bred to be the ultimate indoor pet, the Australian Mist is relaxed, affectionate, and social. They are excellent with children and other pets, making them perfect for NZ apartments.
Chartreux
Sturdy blue-grey cats from France with a silent and 'smiling' nature. They are loyal, intelligent, and quiet companions that adapt well to routine.
Devon Rex
The 'alien cat' with large ears and a wavy coat. Devon Rex are social, mischievous, and love perching on their owners' shoulders.
Latest Care Guides
breed-guide
Best Hypoallergenic Cats NZ: Low-Allergen Breeds, Realistic Expectations
Best hypoallergenic cats in NZ, with a clear warning that no cat breed is guaranteed allergy-proof and profile links for low-shedding options.
breed-guide
Siamese vs Oriental Shorthair NZ: Two Vocal, Social Cats Compared
Siamese vs Oriental Shorthair NZ: compare vocal personality, colour, social needs, activity and indoor home fit.
breed-guide
Best Low-Shedding Cat Breeds NZ: Cleaner Coats, Realistic Expectations
Best low-shedding cat breeds NZ guide: compare real cat profiles with allergy cautions, grooming needs and rental tips.
legal
Bringing a Cat or Dog to New Zealand: MPI Import Rules & 2026 Changes
Importing a cat or dog into NZ is strictly controlled by MPI's Import Health Standard. Here's how the process works, the 2026 IHS change, and what you must check on MPI.
NZ Pet News
nz-news
SPCA Outraged as NZ Govt Rejects Public Fireworks Ban Plan
Following the New Zealand Government's official rejection of a Parliamentary select committee recommendation to ban public sales of fireworks, SPCA New Zealand expresses strong concern for pet welfare and outlines emergency safety steps for owners.
nz-news
New Zealand Confirms First Case of H5N1 Bird Flu in Wellington
Following the first confirmed detection of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Wellington, New Zealand authorities urge pet bird owners and dog walkers to practice strict biosecurity.
nz-news
NZ Dog Registration 2026/27 Renewals Deadline is Approaching
With the 31 July deadline for NZ dog registration renewals fast approaching, local councils urge dog owners to pay on time and avoid penalty fees.