Pet Care: a 2025 Recession-Proof Side Business
The pet care industry in the USA is projected to grow bigger than the GDP of many countries!
Let me share something fascinating about what might be one of the most recession-proof industries out there.
Yesterday, while chatting with my neighbor about his new pet, I realized how massive the pet industry is.
The numbers tell the story:
The global pet care market hit $246.66 billion in 2023 1. Yes, you read that right - a billion with a B!
But wait, this is projected to grow to $427.75 billion by 2032.
That's almost 2X in the next 8 years!
Americans spent $136.8 billion on pet-related expenses in 2022 2. In 2023, the average pet owner spent about $4,800 a year on their furry friends. 3
These numbers are bigger than the GDP of many countries!
The Opportunity
The real gold mine here is in understanding what’s driving this.
Let me break down what I learned:
The Humanization of Pets
- 98% of pet owners consider their pet an important family member 4
- 87% report mental health improvements from pet ownership
- 76% say their personal health has improved because of their pet
Market Growth
- North America leads with a 33.81% market share 5
- The U.S. pet care market alone is expected to hit $116.14 billion by 2032
- Weekly pet care product sales are growing 3X faster than other consumer goods
The Business
Let’s talk about where the money is going:
Pet Food and Nutrition
The pet food segment dominates the market 6. Why? Because pet owners are increasingly focused on premium, organic, and specialized diets.
There are now over 630 different pet food brands competing for a slice of this huge market 7.
Healthcare and Wellness
The animal healthcare market reached $60.72 billion in 2023 8. Health needs were the most expensive cost pet owners face averaging $1,242 on vet visits. 9
Technology and Innovation
Pet tech is booming. Smart collars, automated feeders, and pet monitoring systems are just the beginning.
The market for pet wearables alone is expected to see explosive growth in the coming years.
Bright Future
By 2030, industry experts predict:
- Annual household spending on pets will reach $1,733 5
- The industry could grow at 7% annually
- Total spending might hit $340.71 billion by 2029 4
Here is a curated list of 50 facts and trends of the pet care industry.
Your 2025 Move?
The pet industry isn’t just about selling products—it’s about tapping into the human need for companionship and care.
With 66% of U.S. households owning a pet (up from 56% in 1988) 8, the market is vast and growing.
Remember this: people will always love their pets and are willing to spend a significant amount of money to keep them happy and healthy.
There's no question there’s a big opportunity in the pet care industry.
Want to explore more?
Click here for 50 Trends Driving the Pet Industry Boom
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