Fish have overtaken rabbits, budgies and guinea pigs as the third most popular pet in Britain, according to the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association.

According to a PFMA study, 16% of people now own fish, only a few percentage points off the number two spot currently held by cats in 19% of households. Dogs still hold the number one spot with 23% of households owning a canine. “Now that more people are living in smaller homes and rented housing, it’s not always possible to have a cat or dog," said Tesco pet expert Clodagh Corbett. "By choosing a fish, children have all the enjoyment of looking after a pet without having to worry about space or scratched furniture and damaged walls.” Fish demand has increased by 17% over the last three years, according to the PFMA, with 12 million pet fish living indoors and another 18 million currently living in garden ponds.