The American Pet Products Association’s 2025 report reveals how Gen Z (ages 15-29) is transforming pet ownership trends, with 94M US households now including pets (+12% YoY) and spending projected to hit $157B this year.
🔍 Generational Breakdown:
— Gen Z: Fastest-growing owner group (30% have pets)
— Millennials: Still dominate at 30% of all owners
— Male Surge: Young men drive pet adoption (+24% cat ownership among Millennial men)
🏡 Housing & Workplace Shifts:
— 84% of homeowners have pets (up from 79% in 2022)
— Gen Z leads in pet-friendly workplaces (18% vs Boomers’ 8%)
— Rental challenges persist: 43% of Gen Z still rent
💰 Economic Pressures:
— Gen Z most impacted: 40% report financial barriers vs 11% of Boomers
— Paradox: 15% delayed pets while 15% acquired new ones
🐶 vs 🐱:
— Dogs lead in 68M homes (51%)
— Cats grow to 49M households (37%)
— Global cat ownership now reaches 1B (Mars Petcare 2024)
🚧 Ownership Barriers:
— #1 Reason: Lifestyle (time/responsibility)
— Gen Z most cost-conscious (21% cite finances vs 11% Boomers)
“Young adults are redefining pet parenthood as both an emotional priority and economic challenge,” notes the APPA report, highlighting the industry’s resilience through generational shifts.
📢 How is your generation approaching pet ownership? Share below!
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