Shang Hai Zheng Quan Bao·2025-08-22 22:14Group 1: Market Growth and Trends - The pet economy is experiencing significant growth driven by social changes such as urbanization, smaller family structures, and an increase in single and elderly populations, leading to pets being viewed as family members rather than just companions [1] - The pet industry in China is entering a new development stage, with a shift from "functional companions" to "family members," resulting in a rise in demand for specialized pet products and services [1] - According to the "2025 China Pet Industry White Paper," the number of pet dogs in China is projected to reach 52.58 million in 2024, a 1.6% increase from 2023, while the number of pet cats is expected to reach 71.53 million, a 2.5% increase [3] Group 2: Consumer Spending and Behavior - Pet owners are increasingly willing to spend on high-quality food, comfortable bedding, fashionable clothing, and even birthday parties for their pets, reflecting a trend towards "humanization" of pet consumption [1] - Average monthly spending on pets can vary significantly; for example, one pet owner spends around 2,000 yuan per month on food, grooming, insurance, and medical care for their dog [3] - The pet market in urban areas is expected to exceed 300 billion yuan in 2024 and is projected to surpass 400 billion yuan by 2027, indicating a robust growth trajectory [4] Group 3: Product and Service Diversification - The demand for pet food is a major component of pet owners' expenses, with a focus on safety, nutrition, and specific health needs driving purchasing decisions [5] - Companies are increasingly investing in brand image and product differentiation, with some brands collaborating with popular IPs to attract consumers [6] - The rise of young consumers is leading to a demand for diverse, intelligent, and one-stop pet services, with over 30,000 businesses offering pet services on platforms like Meituan, reflecting a 24% year-on-year growth [7] Group 4: Industry Competition and Innovation - The pet economy is attracting more capital and new entrants, with companies like Daqian Ecology and Three Squirrels entering the market to provide comprehensive pet services and products [9] - The number of pet-related merchants on Tencent's platform has increased 2.5 times since early 2024, indicating a growing interest in the pet sector [10] - Despite increasing competition, the future of the pet industry remains promising, with specialized needs for different pet types and age groups presenting numerous opportunities for brands [11]