According to the study presented by the APPA in one of the educational events at the Global Pet Expo 2023, pet ownerships had returned to almost the same pre-pandemic levels.
During the year of the Covid-19 pandemic, we saw an increase from 67% in 2018 to 70% in 2020. However, this rate dropped to 66% in 2022, very close to the percentage of 4 years ago.
During 2020, the number of American households with dogs rose to 54%, but in 2022 they dropped again to the same 50% they had in 2018. This differs from the case of cats, which remained at the same percentage of 35% during 2020 and 2022.
The acquisition of pets shows an important peak for dogs, since in 2022 it was 23%, while in 2021 it had a high decline of 14%. Factors such as the return to normality, pet parents going back to offices, and daily activities, could be the main reasons for this plummet. However, it is worth analyzing that the high peak during the pandemic was due to emotional factors in people and the impulse for company. In many cases, with sad outcomes for the pets that have returned to the shelters.
The habit of online shopping remains stable
Despite this slight change in the behavior of purchasing pets, online purchases have been maintained and have even increased.
The purchase of pet food, for example, increased from 2018 to 2020 from 59% to 79%, and in 2022 it remained above 80%.
In the case of treats, the peak from 56% to 73% was also seen in 2020 and continued its rise in 2022 with 76%.
Toys also increased from 69% in 2020 to 72% in 2022.
On the other hand, there was a slight fall in the sector of medicines, vitamins, and other supplements, but without much change.
What to expect in 2023?
Pet owners are concerned about the economy (specially younger generations like Z generation) but remain committed to the standard of care they have always provided to their pets.
Spending is up due to the economy, with 39% spending more on supplies in the past 12 months, vs 15% who spent less.