Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo: Resilience, Growth, and the Rise of Gen Z
- Lauren Anders Brown
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
PadsPass attended the Global Pet Expo in Orlando last month where over 1,000 exhibitors and 3,000 product launches happened. The pet industry is experiencing a remarkable transformation, and in 2024 it showcased unprecedented resilience and economic significance that extends far beyond traditional expectations.
These are our takeaways we learned from the presentation by Ingrid Chu of APPA, the American Pet Products Association on what the pet industry trends were in 2024.
Economic Powerhouse
With an astounding $312 billion economic contribution, the pet industry has become a critical component of the US economy. To put this into perspective, this figure dwarfs the economic impact of major convention centers. Pet spending has surged by over 4%, with the average buyer investing $782 in their furry, feathered, or scaled companions. Industry projections indicate total spending will reach $157 billion this year, demonstrating continued growth despite economic uncertainties.
Changing Landscape of Pet Ownership
A significant shift is occurring in pet ownership patterns. In 2024, 71% of US households now own pets, representing 184 million adults and 94 million households – a 12 million increase from 2023. Dogs remain the most popular pets, with 68 million dogs and 49 million cats calling American homes their own. Surprisingly, backyard chickens have emerged as a notable trend, with 11 million households owning them, and 8 million considering these feathered friends as pets.
Gen Z: Reshaping the Pet Industry
The most transformative trend is the rise of Gen Z in pet ownership. This generation has dramatically changed the landscape, now representing half of all pet owners after a remarkable 40% increase in just one year. Younger men are driving this change, with significant increases in dog and cat adoption. Gen Z and millennials are not just acquiring pets; they're redefining pet care, showing a greater emphasis on mental health and emotional well-being.
A particularly intriguing development is the emergence of "cat dads," with NBA players and young men increasingly embracing cat ownership. These generations are more likely to use calming products and prioritize their pets' emotional health, marking a significant shift in pet care approaches.
Workplace and Shopping Evolution
The pet industry is also seeing interesting workplace trends. Fourteen percent of workplaces are now pet-friendly, with 80% of HR professionals believing such policies help attract and retain talent. A study by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute revealed that pets positively impact employee mental health, morale, and even healthcare costs.
Shopping habits are equally dynamic. While online shopping is growing, brick-and-mortar stores remain crucial. Fifty-eight percent of consumers use both online and in-store shopping, with 96% still visiting physical stores. Gen Z's preference for visual learning through platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube is driving new marketing strategies.
Affordability Concerns
Despite the positive trends, challenges remain. Over a third of pet owners express concerns about the affordability of veterinary care and pet services. The industry is actively working to address these concerns and make pet ownership more accessible.
Looking Ahead
The pet industry in 2024 is characterized by resilience, innovation, and a deepening human-animal bond. With Gen Z driving change, a focus on mental health, and continued economic growth, the future looks bright for pets and their owners.
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