Core Viewpoint - The rise of the pet economy reflects the emotional and spiritual pursuits of the younger generation, particularly in a materially affluent era, and highlights society's responsiveness to their reasonable demands [1][4]. Group 1: Pet Economy Growth - The pet consumption market in urban China is projected to exceed 300 billion yuan by 2024, with average annual spending on pet dogs and cats reaching 2,961 yuan and 2,020 yuan respectively [2]. - Young consumers are the main driving force behind pet spending, characterized by refined, diverse, ritualistic, and emotional consumption patterns [2][3]. Group 2: Humanization of Pet Consumption - Pet consumption has evolved into a "humanized consumption" model, where pets are viewed as family members rather than mere animals, leading to the purchase of products and services originally intended for humans [3]. - The humanization process manifests in three forms: strong emotional bonds with companion animals (e.g., dogs and cats), emotional companionship with less interactive animals (e.g., fish and birds), and emotional investment in non-living representations of animals (e.g., toys and electronic pets) [3]. Group 3: Emotional and Market Interplay - Pet ownership provides emotional solace in an increasingly individualistic society, with over 125 million one-person households in China as of 2021, where pets serve as companions for many young people [4]. - The modern family structure has led many single youths or small families to consider pets as integral family members, resulting in significant spending on pet care and related products [4]. Group 4: Consumption Upgrade - The intertwining of emotion and market dynamics fosters new market products and demands, such as preventive health management for pets and organic diets, replacing traditional pet care practices [5]. - The pet industry is evolving, giving rise to new business models, including pet health management, pet therapy, genetic testing, and even pet funerals [5]. Group 5: Activating Youth Consumption Potential - The rapid growth of youth pet consumption necessitates strategies to promote the healthy development of the pet economy, thereby stimulating internal consumption dynamics [6]. Group 6: Recommendations for Pet Economy Development - Emphasizing cohabitation knowledge and inclusive civilization is essential, considering the needs of pets and improving public facilities to support pet ownership [8]. - Expanding the humanization concept can activate the pet economy, with suggestions for enhancing pet legislation and establishing unified market standards [9]. - Developing social services around pets can create job opportunities and promote social harmony, as seen in various regions investing in pet food industry parks [9].