Pet Care is Changing Consumer Behavior

According to a report published by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) on August 6, 2024, the 2024 Dog and Cat Owner Survey provides critical insights into evolving trends among pet owners in the U.S. This latest survey examines key shifts in spending, pet care, and how pet owners are connecting with their pets. Despite ongoing economic challenges, pet owners continue to increase their spending on pet-related products and services, driven by a growing focus on health and quality of life for their pets. Below, we summarize the top 5 emerging trends identified in the report:

1. Increasing Focus on Pet Anxiety Relief

• Anxiety in Pets is Rising: Pet anxiety issues are becoming more prevalent, with an increasing number of dog and cat owners actively seeking solutions to alleviate their pets’ stress.
• Surge in Calming Products: From 2018 to 2024, the use of calming products for dogs and cats has skyrocketed by 168% and 174%, respectively. Today, 59% of dog owners and 52% of cat owners use calming products, a significant increase from 22% and 19% in 2018.
• Supplement Use: Among dog owners, 15% now use anxiety supplements for their pets, a dramatic rise from just 4% in 2018.

2. Rising Obesity Rates in Dogs and Cats

• Increased Obesity Diagnoses: 12% of dogs and 17% of cats are diagnosed as obese by veterinarians, up from 9% and 15% in 2022, respectively.
• Weight Loss Diets: Additionally, 11% of dog owners and 13% of cat owners have implemented weight-loss diets for their pets. This indicates a growing awareness of the need for proper pet weight management.

3. Focus on Pet Nutrition

• Rising Demand for Supplements: As pet owners become more concerned with their pets’ health, the demand for nutritional supplements has grown significantly.
• Vitamins and Supplements: The use of vitamins and supplements for dogs has increased by 50%, and for cats, by 60% since 2018.
• Probiotics and Prebiotics: 21% of dog owners and 28% of cat owners now give their pets probiotics or prebiotics, an increase from 17% and 21% in 2022.

4. Increased Emphasis on Bonding with Pets

• Outdoor Activities with Pets: More pet owners are spending quality time with their pets outdoors. 58% of dog owners now take their dogs to the park more frequently. Additionally, 15% drive their dogs daily, up from 10% in 2018.
• Training and Outdoor Time for Cats: 46% of cat owners are using training aids, a notable rise from 34% in 2018. More owners are investing in leashes and harnesses, with 31% using a leash compared to just 21% in 2018.
• Celebrating Pets’ Milestones: 44% of dog owners and 32% of cat owners purchase birthday gifts for their pets. Moreover,, 27% of dog owners and 20% of cat owners host birthday or holiday parties for their pets.

5. The Growing Trend of Traveling with Pets

• Custom Travel Plans for Pets: As pets become integral members of the family, many pet owners are customizing their travel plans to accommodate their pets. 55% of dog owners and 36% of cat owners report planning trips around their pets’ needs.
• Increased Frequency of Pet Travel:
  • 88% of dog owners and 90% of cat owners have taken their pets on car trips.
  • 68% of dog owners and 80% of cat owners have flown with their pets.
  • 34% of dog owners and 30% of cat owners have traveled by car with their pets three or more times in the past year, and 22% of both dog and cat owners have flown with their pets at least three times.

6. Increased Demand for Pet Travel Products

• Pet Carriers and Kennels: As pet travel continues to rise, so does the demand for high-quality pet carriers and kennels. Popular brands like Petmate and Gunner Kennels have become go-to options for pet owners, providing safety, comfort, and portability for pets during travel.
• SPH（Smart Pets Home） Foldable Pet House: The Ideal Travel Companion
  
  For pet owners seeking a versatile and portable solution, the SPH foldable pet house offers the perfect blend of convenience and innovation.
  
  • Easy to Transport: This pet house is lightweight and folds easily for storage. It’s the perfect solution for pet owners on the go. Whether you’re planning a road trip, flying with your pet, or heading outdoors, the SPH pet house ensures hassle-free travel.
  • Smart Ventilation System: The SPH Pet House is equipped with an advanced smart ventilation system. It automatically adjusts temperature and humidity based on environmental conditions. This ensures your pet stays comfortable in any climate. Whether it’s a hot summer day or a chilly winter evening, the system adapts in real time. It creates the perfect environment for your pet.
  • Versatile for All Weather Conditions: The SPH Pet House is designed for all-weather use. It provides a comfortable and safe environment for your pet regardless of the weather. Whether you’re traveling during the summer or exploring the outdoors in winter, this pet house handles extreme weather conditions. It ensures your pet remains cozy and secure during any trip. This makes it the ideal travel companion.

This foldable, climate-adaptive pet house is a game-changer for pet owners who want to enhance their pets' travel experience while ensuring their well-being on the go.

Conclusion

Despite economic pressures, U.S. pet owners continue to increase spending on pet care, driven by a focus on health and quality of life for their pets. As trends like traveling with pets continue to grow, the demand for innovative pet products, such as the SPH foldable pet house, will rise. These products meet the evolving needs of pet owners who prioritize their pets' comfort and well-being, even during travel. With the continued growth of pet care technology and industry advancements, the U.S. will remain a key leader in the global pet market, setting trends that will influence pet ownership worldwide.

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Cindy

Verified Buyer

5/20/24

Our two cats started using it right away and we all love it! No more smells and it is always clean and ready for the next visit. Super quiet clean cycle and much less litter tracked onto the floor. Definitely a 5 star product!

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Cindy

Verified Buyer

5/20/24

Our two cats started using it right away and we all love it! No more smells and it is always clean and ready for the next visit. Super quiet clean cycle and much less litter tracked onto the floor. Definitely a 5 star product!

Was this review helpful?

2

1

Cindy

Verified Buyer

5/20/24

Our two cats started using it right away and we all love it! No more smells and it is always clean and ready for the next visit. Super quiet clean cycle and much less litter tracked onto the floor. Definitely a 5 star product!

Was this review helpful?

2

1