The American Pet Products Association (APPA) conducts a comprehensive survey every two years to gauge trends and behaviors in pet ownership across the United States. The 2017-2018 APPA National Pet Owners Survey provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of pet ownership. This article delves into the key findings from the survey, shedding light on the trends, preferences, and behaviors of pet owners.
Key Findings from the 2017-2018 Survey
Increase in Pet Ownership
The survey revealed a notable increase in pet ownership, with approximately 68% of U.S. households owning a pet. This marks a significant rise from previous years, reflecting the growing bond between humans and their pets. 🐶🐱
Pet Preferences
- Dogs and Cats Reign Supreme: Dogs and cats continue to be the most popular pets, with 60.2 million households owning dogs and 47.1 million households owning cats.
- Rising Popularity of Exotic Pets: There is a growing interest in exotic pets such as reptiles, birds, and small mammals. The survey noted an increase in households owning these unique pets. 🦜🦎
Spending on Pets
Pet owners are willing to spend more on their furry friends, with total pet industry expenditures reaching an all-time high. Key areas of spending include:
- Food and Treats: Pet owners prioritize high-quality food and treats, with natural and organic options becoming increasingly popular. 🍖
- Veterinary Care: Spending on veterinary care has also increased, highlighting the importance pet owners place on their pets’ health and well-being.
- Pet Services: Grooming, boarding, and pet sitting services are in high demand, reflecting the busy lifestyles of many pet owners. 🏥
Health and Wellness Trends
- Preventive Care: There is a growing focus on preventive care, with more pet owners investing in regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments for their pets.
- Pet Insurance: The adoption of pet insurance is on the rise, as owners seek to mitigate the financial risks associated with unexpected medical expenses. 💊
Pet Technology and Innovations
The survey highlighted the increasing adoption of pet-related technologies and innovations, such as:
- Smart Pet Products: Devices like automatic feeders, smart collars, and pet cameras are gaining popularity among tech-savvy pet owners. 📱
- Health Monitoring: Wearable technology that tracks a pet’s activity and health metrics is becoming a valuable tool for proactive pet care.
Pet Ownership Demographics
The survey also provided insights into the demographics of pet owners:
- Millennials Leading the Way: Millennials have surpassed Baby Boomers as the largest segment of pet owners, with a strong preference for adopting pets from shelters. 🌱
- Urban Pet Ownership: Pet ownership in urban areas is on the rise, with apartment-friendly pets such as cats, small dogs, and exotic pets becoming more common.
Implications for the Pet Industry
The findings from the 2017-2018 APPA National Pet Owners Survey have significant implications for the pet industry:
- Product Development: Companies are focusing on developing innovative products that cater to the specific needs and preferences of modern pet owners.
- Marketing Strategies: Marketing efforts are increasingly targeting millennials and urban pet owners, emphasizing convenience and technology-driven solutions.
- Service Expansion: There is a growing demand for pet services, including grooming, boarding, and pet sitting, creating opportunities for service providers to expand their offerings.
Conclusion
The 2017-2018 APPA National Pet Owners Survey provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of pet ownership in the U.S. The insights gained from this survey are invaluable for understanding the evolving trends and behaviors of pet owners. As pet ownership continues to rise, the pet industry is poised for continued growth and innovation, driven by the strong bond between humans and their beloved pets. 🐾📈
