Core Insights - The article discusses the emergence of a new undergraduate program in "Companion Animal Science" at China Agricultural University, which is part of the broader trend of universities offering pet-related majors to attract quality students [2][5][10]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The pet economy in China is experiencing robust growth, with the urban pet market projected to exceed 300 billion yuan by 2024 and potentially surpass 400 billion yuan by 2027 [4][10]. - The changing demographics, such as an aging population and increasing numbers of single-person households, have led to pets becoming significant emotional companions for many families [4][10]. - The demand for pet-related professionals is rising, with over 40% of job postings requiring only a college diploma, while only 6% require a bachelor's degree [6][10]. Group 2: Educational Developments - There are currently over 150 vocational colleges offering pet-related programs, while the number of undergraduate programs remains limited, primarily starting after 2020 [9][10]. - The curriculum for pet-related majors often builds on existing animal science and veterinary medicine courses, with a focus on companion animals [11][18]. - The geographical distribution of these programs shows that Henan province leads with 17 institutions offering related majors, followed by Heilongjiang and Jiangsu [11][10]. Group 3: Career Opportunities - The pet industry has diversified into over 20 specialized careers, including roles such as veterinarians, pet trainers, and pet groomers, reflecting a shift from traditional pet care roles [26][23]. - New job roles, such as "pet influencers," are emerging due to the growth of digital media and content platforms, indicating a fusion of the pet industry with technology and media [27][23]. - Despite the variety of career paths, many professionals face challenges such as low pay and high job stress, which can lead to disillusionment [31][32]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The pet-related major at China Agricultural University is currently a niche choice, but with a market penetration rate of only 20% in China, there is significant potential for growth in the pet industry [33][10]. - As the pet economy continues to expand, it is anticipated that more universities will focus on developing pet-related programs and talent cultivation [34].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the report is that the Chinese pet industry is experiencing significant growth, with a market size projected to reach 811.4 billion yuan by 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 25.4% from 2015 to 2023 [1] - The increase in market size is driven by the rising number of pets, which is expected to reach 430 million by 2024 and 570 million by 2029, indicating a growing demand for pet-related products and services [1] - The development of the pet economy is closely linked to the improvement in residents' consumption levels, as emotional needs for companionship and comfort drive spending in this sector [1] Group 2 - The younger generation, particularly those born in the 1990s and 2000s, constitutes over 60% of pet owners, focusing on quality and personalized pet products, which is leading to an upgrade in pet consumption concepts [2] - Social media is reshaping the decision-making process for pet owners, who are increasingly valuing brand image and values over technical details, with word-of-mouth and professional recommendations playing a crucial role [2] - The restructuring of supply chains and the acceleration of domestic product substitution are becoming the dual engines driving the development of the pet industry, with Chinese companies expanding globally and domestic high-end products improving in quality [2]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes that economic cycles do not eliminate demand but reshape its form, leading to the emergence of industries that thrive during downturns [3][4][26]. Group 1: Economic Trends - During economic downturns, certain industries experience unexpected growth, indicating a shift in consumer behavior towards more cost-effective options [5][10]. - The concept of "value-for-money economy" emerges as consumers prioritize savings, leading to a rational flow of consumption rather than a complete decline in demand [7][8]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - The rise of the "middleman profit" model, particularly on platforms like Xianyu, showcases how young individuals capitalize on price differences between low-cost goods and resale opportunities, with some earning over 10,000 yuan monthly [9][10]. - The second-hand economy is booming, driven by a strong desire for cost-effective purchases among younger consumers, as they increasingly opt for second-hand items over new ones [12][13]. Group 3: Emotional and Anxiety Economies - The "emotional economy" is highlighted through the growing pet care industry, where services like pet boarding and grooming are in high demand, reflecting consumers' emotional investments in their pets [16][17]. - The "anxiety economy" is characterized by a surge in self-investment as individuals seek to enhance their skills amid job insecurity, leading to increased enrollment in practical training courses and the rise of flexible employment [22][23]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - The article concludes that the current economic landscape in China is undergoing a process of creative destruction, where industries that adapt to changing consumer needs and behaviors will thrive [26].