2025年中国宠物经济报告（英文版）-Daxue+Consulting博圣轩_41页_4mb

Summary of China's Pet Economy

Core Content

China's pet economy is experiencing rapid growth, driven by evolving owner-pet relationships and increased consumer spending. Pets are increasingly viewed as family members, lifestyle companions, and even alternatives to children. This shift is reflected in spending patterns, with the market expanding beyond basic needs to include a wide range of products and services.

Main Trends and Spending Patterns

• Spending per pet is rising faster than the number of pets.
  From 2023 to 2024, the number of cats increased by 1.6%, dogs by 2.5%, while the overall market grew by 7.5%.
• Food remains a major category.
  The food market share grew by 1.5% in 2024, while health services saw a slight decline. Treats, however, consistently capture over 13% of pet spending.
• Pet ownership is increasingly seen as a lifestyle choice.
  Pet-related experiences, such as spa treatments, gym sessions, and travel, are becoming more common and are reshaping consumer behavior.

Key Market Drivers

• Digital platforms are transforming pet adoption.
  Apps like MaiZhiChongWu and JD.com have made it easier for pet owners to browse, compare, and purchase pets with filters for breed, price, and discounts.
• Social media plays a significant role in pet culture.
  Platforms like Douyin, Weibo, and RedNote are fostering a community where pet owners share their experiences, creating a demand for aesthetic and emotional content.
• Younger generations are leading the shift.
  Those born in the 2000s are a key growth driver, showing a 39.5% increase in pet ownership distribution in 2024.

Popular Pet Types and Breeds

• Cats have overtaken dogs in popularity.
  Cats are seen as more practical and emotionally comforting, especially in urban settings.
• Top dog breeds include Huskies and Golden Retrievers.
  Smaller breeds are more favored in cities due to their compact size and lower maintenance.
• Top cat breeds include long-haired and ragdoll cats.
  While long-haired cats dominate social media, short-haired cats are gaining traction due to easier grooming.
• Exotic pets are on the rise.
  Snakes and birds, such as parrots and pigeons, are becoming popular due to their symbolic appeal and low-maintenance nature.

Pet-Friendly Society Development

• Public spaces are becoming more pet-friendly.
  Restaurants and malls now offer pet-friendly amenities, including outdoor dining, special menus, and pet consignment services on high-speed rail.
• Pet-friendly services are expanding.
  Pet spas, gyms, and tour groups are emerging, reflecting a growing interest in pet wellness and experiences.
• There are still gaps in pet-friendly infrastructure.
  While some areas offer pet-friendly amenities, many still lack consistent quality and accessibility.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Healthcare is a major pain point.
  Lack of standardized diagnosis and treatment leads to unnecessary procedures and higher costs. There is also a shortage of experienced vets.
• Pet insurance is becoming essential but limited.
  Most plans do not cover routine check-ups, and claim processing can be slow.
• Pet daycare and hotels are underdeveloped.
  Quality concerns prevent many working pet owners from utilizing these services.
• Opportunities for micro-segmentation and premium services.
  Brands can tailor products and services to niche groups, such as urban cat owners or small-breed dog enthusiasts, offering personalized and high-value options.

Conclusion

China's pet market is evolving rapidly, with pets becoming integral to daily life and personal identity. The rise of social media, digital platforms, and a growing focus on emotional and lifestyle-driven spending is reshaping the industry. While there are clear opportunities for growth, challenges in healthcare and infrastructure must be addressed to fully realize the potential of China's pet economy.