Pet News

Despite a prevailing climate of historical consumer confidence weakness, the market for pet-related commodities demonstrates remarkable fortitude when juxtaposed with other routine household expenditures. A mere three out of ten American consumers encountered obstacles in procuring pet provisions as of January 2026, positioning this category as the least problematic among various daily expenses tracked by a comprehensive survey. This finding underscores a robust commitment to pet welfare, even as broader economic anxieties persist and purchasing power appears to be strained across different demographic segments.

According to an in-depth analysis conducted by the research and data analytics entity PYMNTS Intelligence, the procurement of pet supplies posed the least difficulty for US consumers. This revelation emerged from a survey conducted in January 2026, where only 30% of respondents reported challenges in this area. In stark contrast, a significant majority (89%) encountered issues with groceries and essential household items. Other categories such as clothing and personal care items, and dining out/food delivery, each saw 47% of consumers struggling, while entertainment and social activities presented difficulties for 33%. These statistics, detailed in the February 2026 report "Generations Under Pressure: How Younger Consumers Are Coping With Higher Living Costs," were derived from polling 2,747 US consumers between January 2nd and 5th.

A notable disparity surfaced across different age groups. Generation Z reported the highest proportion of individuals experiencing difficulty purchasing pet supplies, with 38%. This was closely followed by Generation X and Millennials, both at 31%. Conversely, Baby Boomers, seniors, and 'bridge millennials' exhibited the lowest levels of difficulty, each recording 29%. Compared to October 2025, the overall percentage of consumers finding it challenging to buy pet supplies increased by one percentage point, indicating a slight tightening of affordability. This rise was particularly pronounced among Baby Boomers and seniors, whose share escalated by five percentage points, and Gen Z, by three percentage points. Interestingly, the figure decreased among bridge millennials (by ten percentage points) and millennials (by six percentage points), remaining stable for Generation X.

Further insights from a separate PYMNTS Intelligence survey, conducted from March 30th to April 9th, highlighted the enduring priority of pet care. This study, titled "The Cutback Economy: How Age, Behavior and Financial Pressure Shape Consumer Spending," found that 71% of 'reactive consumers' (those who make purchases or engage with brands primarily in response to external triggers like sales) did not consider pet care a challenging non-essential expense. Instead, they opted to reduce spending in other areas. The report, which surveyed 2,283 US adults and forms part of the 'Generational Pulse' series, designated pet care as a 'protected' spending category, emphasizing the resilience of brands within this sector among responsive consumers.

Consumers are employing various tactics to navigate the escalating cost of living. The most prevalent strategy, adopted by 69% of all respondents, involves curtailing everyday expenditures. This approach was most common among Baby Boomers and seniors (75%) and Generation X (74%). Additionally, over half (52%) of consumers are avoiding significant purchases or investments, a trend most evident among Baby Boomers, seniors (60%), and bridge millennials (52%).

To bolster their financial standing, a quarter (27%) of individuals reported increasing their savings, with Generation Z (40%) and millennials (31%) leading this effort. Approximately 26% of respondents undertook additional work or income-generating activities, notably bridge millennials (37%) and millennials (34%). Furthermore, 18% engaged in negotiating bills or payment plans. Many also sought financial assistance, with 22% borrowing from family or friends, 18% utilizing 'buy now, pay later' or installment plans, and 12% pursuing other forms of financial aid.

In summary, while overall consumer sentiment in the US has experienced a downturn, the pet product market remains an exception. Surveys consistently show that despite economic pressures, a relatively small percentage of consumers face difficulties in acquiring pet supplies. This trend highlights the prioritization of pet well-being across generations, with pet care emerging as a resilient and protected spending category, even as individuals adjust their financial behaviors to cope with broader inflationary challenges.

In Chile's dynamic pet care sector, supermarkets and grocery outlets have cemented their position as the leading retail destinations for pet provisions, capturing nearly half of all pet food purchases. While these large retailers also dominate sales of grooming products, treats, and accessories, specialized veterinary clinics and pet stores remain crucial for health-related items like hygiene products, supplements, and medications. The market reflects a diverse retail landscape, with traditional and online channels each carving out distinct niches.

A comprehensive survey conducted in August 2025 by Cadem, a Chilean market research firm, gathered insights from 1,381 adults nationwide. The findings reveal that although supermarkets, veterinarians, and specialty stores collectively account for over 60% of sales across all categories, other avenues such as open-air markets, wholesale distributors, local shops, e-commerce platforms, and social media are gaining traction. Notably, online purchasing, while not yet dominant, shows significant growth, especially among younger demographics and higher-income households. Social media platforms, in particular, are emerging as key information sources for pet owners seeking dietary advice and product details.

The study highlights a clear distinction in consumer behavior based on socioeconomic status. Households in the ABC1 group, representing the upper-middle class, exhibit a greater propensity for online shopping, purchasing almost double the amount of pet food through digital channels compared to the D and E segments, which represent lower-income households. Furthermore, ABC1 pet owners are more likely to frequent veterinary and specialized clinics for their pet food needs. Generational differences are also apparent, with individuals aged 18 to 34 showing a higher reliance on internet and social media for purchases and product information than older age groups.

Regarding pet nutrition, dry food remains overwhelmingly popular, with 59% of respondents feeding it to their pets daily. Wet food, homemade meals, and table scraps are also common, each consumed by 13-14% of pets daily, though wet food sees slightly more frequent use throughout the week. Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF) diets, however, have minimal penetration, with a significant majority of pet owners never opting for this feeding method. Differences also exist between dog and cat diets: dogs consume more homemade leftovers, while cats prefer wet food. Veterinarians continue to be the most trusted source for dietary advice, even as online resources and social media become increasingly influential for pet owners seeking information.

The economic climate, marked by recent inflation and financial challenges, has influenced consumer choices. Over half of the respondents maintained their current pet food purchases, while a quarter adapted by switching food types, formats, or purchase locations within their preferred brands. A smaller segment opted for more economical brands, and a few changed food types entirely. This shift indicates a trend towards more pragmatic purchasing decisions, with consumers prioritizing rationality and convenience in their spending habits for pet care.

The Chilean pet care market is undergoing a transformative period, characterized by evolving consumer preferences and diverse retail channels. The ascent of supermarkets as a primary purchasing point, coupled with the increasing role of digital platforms like social media for information gathering, underscores a dynamic landscape. As economic factors continue to influence household budgets, pet owners are demonstrating a strategic approach to their pet care expenditures, balancing brand loyalty with practical considerations, thereby shaping a market focused on value and accessibility.