新消费智库·2026-01-12 16:23Core Insights - The pet industry in China is projected to exceed 500 billion yuan by 2025, marking a significant transformation from a purely economic sector to a social ecosystem [2] - The main consumer group is shifting from the "90s generation" to the "00s generation," which is growing at a rate 21 percentage points higher, while the "silver-haired" demographic will also play a crucial role in the next decade [2] - The emotional connection between pets and owners is becoming a driving force in the industry, moving from pets as mere property to being considered family members [2] - Government policies are increasingly integrating the pet economy into urban development plans, indicating a shift from spontaneous market growth to a more structured and policy-driven approach [2] Section 1: Sharp Insights into the Pet Industry - The illusion of a market ceiling at 811.4 billion yuan creates a false sense of prosperity, as the real challenge lies in transitioning from "new pet ownership" to "refined care" [6] - The "Z generation" is seen as the fastest-growing consumer group, but their actual purchasing power is limited, making them more of future influencers than current spenders [6] - The "silver-haired gold mine" is expected to be the most significant source of growth in the pet industry over the next 5-10 years, as this demographic has both the financial means and emotional needs for pet companionship [6] - The concept of "emotional tax" is emerging, where spending on pets is viewed as fulfilling emotional needs rather than mere expenses [7] - The shift from impulsive pet ownership to responsible consumption is driven by rising abandonment rates, leading to a more thoughtful approach to pet care [9] - The "it economy" is showing resilience during economic downturns, but non-essential pet products may face cuts first [9] - "Pet-friendly" policies are becoming essential for businesses, with a focus on creating harmonious environments for pets and their owners [9] - The trend of "personalization" in pet products is evolving, moving towards unique offerings based on individual pet characteristics [9] Section 2: Product Innovation and Supply Chain Dynamics - The competition in functional pet food is intensifying, with many players in the market, making it crucial to base claims on verifiable clinical data [11] - The "fresh meat" segment is entering a critical phase where supply chain efficiency will determine market success [11] - The rise of "baked food" is creating a competitive landscape focused on ingredient quality and scientific formulation [11] - Freeze-dried snacks are transitioning from luxury items to staple foods, reshaping consumer perceptions of pet food value [13] - The "clean label" movement is facing trust issues due to the lack of standardized definitions for terms like "natural" and "no additives" [12] - Pet snacks are becoming a significant part of the diet, with specific functional benefits [15] - The demand for smart pet products is growing, but they must address real pain points to move beyond novelty [16] - Design is becoming a critical factor in pet product success, with aesthetically pleasing items gaining popularity [17] Section 3: Market Trends and Consumer Behavior - The trend of celebrating pets' birthdays and purchasing themed products is becoming a new norm, with significant growth in related consumer behavior [21] - Multi-pet households are becoming the norm, driving demand for specialized products [42] - Pet health management is shifting towards proactive prevention, with a growing number of pet owners regularly providing supplements [43] - The "humanization" of pets is deepening, with owners increasingly investing in their pets' fashion and social presence [44] - Exotic pet ownership is rising among younger generations, reflecting a desire for unique social expressions [45] Section 4: Best Innovative Brands in the Pet Industry - The report will highlight 50 brands excelling in product breakthroughs, innovative business models, technological applications, design aesthetics, and social responsibility [23][24] - Each brand will be evaluated based on its core innovations, representative products, and industry impact [24]