The American Pet Products Association’s (APPA) 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey provides a comprehensive look into the world of pet ownership in the United States. This survey is an essential resource for understanding the trends, behaviors, and preferences of pet owners across the country. Here, we delve into the key findings and what they mean for the pet industry and pet owners alike.
Key Findings
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Pet Ownership Rates:
- Prevalence: According to the survey, 68% of U.S. households own a pet, equating to about 85 million families.
- Comparison: This shows a steady increase in pet ownership compared to previous years, highlighting the growing importance of pets in American households.
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Types of Pets:
- Diverse Preferences: Dogs and cats remain the most popular pets, with 60.2 million households owning dogs and 47.1 million owning cats.
- Other Pets: Fish, birds, and small animals like hamsters and rabbits also have significant followings, indicating diverse pet preferences.
Spending Habits
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Expenditure on Pets:
- Increase in Spending: The survey reveals that Americans spent over $69.5 billion on their pets in 2017, a substantial increase from previous years.
- Categories: Major spending areas include food, veterinary care, supplies, and grooming, reflecting a comprehensive approach to pet care.
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Premium Products:
- Trend: There is a noticeable shift towards premium and organic pet products, as more pet owners seek high-quality and healthier options for their pets.
- Impact: This trend drives innovation and growth in the pet products industry, encouraging companies to cater to the evolving demands of pet owners.
Pet Health and Wellness
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Veterinary Visits:
- Frequency: The survey indicates that 86% of pet owners took their pets to the vet at least once in the past year, underscoring the importance placed on pet health.
- Preventive Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care are prioritized, reflecting a responsible approach to pet ownership.
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Health Concerns:
- Common Issues: Dental care, obesity, and allergies are among the top health concerns for pet owners.
- Solutions: The demand for specialized pet foods, supplements, and healthcare products continues to rise as owners seek effective solutions for these issues.
Pet Services
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Grooming and Boarding:
- Service Utilization: Approximately 50% of pet owners use professional grooming services, while 30% utilize boarding services when traveling.
- Convenience: The increasing availability of pet services such as mobile grooming and pet hotels enhances convenience for pet owners.
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Training and Behavior:
- Behavioral Services: Many pet owners invest in training and behavior modification services, particularly for dogs, to ensure well-behaved pets.
- Impact: This emphasis on training reflects a commitment to integrating pets harmoniously into households.
Demographics of Pet Owners
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Age and Income:
- Demographic Trends: Millennials have surpassed Baby Boomers as the largest segment of pet owners, with 35% of pet owners being millennials.
- Income Influence: Higher income households tend to spend more on pets, driving demand for luxury pet products and services.
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Urban vs. Rural:
- Location: Urban pet ownership is on the rise, with more city dwellers finding ways to incorporate pets into their lifestyles.
- Adaptations: This trend leads to increased demand for pet-friendly housing, parks, and amenities in urban areas.
Conclusion
The American Pet Products Association’s 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of pet ownership in the United States. From spending habits and health priorities to demographic shifts and service utilization, this comprehensive survey highlights the integral role pets play in the lives of millions of Americans. As the pet industry continues to grow and adapt, these findings provide a roadmap for meeting the needs and preferences of today’s pet owners.
