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2026 State of the Industry Report

 

Insights You Can't Ignore

  • U.S. pet industry expenditures reached $158 billion in sales in 2025 (+3.7%), and are projected to reach $165 billion in 2026.
  • 95 million U.S. households owned at least one pet in 2025.
  • Dog ownership continues to grow at 53% of U.S. households, while household spending moderates.
  • Cat ownership and spending rise in 2025, propelled by Gen Z and Millennials, with 53 million U.S. households owning a cat.
  • Pets remain an essential part of the household, despite tightening consumer budgets
  • The Gen X "empty nest" drives ownership growth across multiple pet species.

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

Key Insights

Industry Expenditures & Forecasts

Industry Expenditures & Forecasts

The U.S. pet market continues to show resilience and momentum. Pet industry expenditures reached $158 billion in 2025 (+3.7%) and are projected to reach $165 billion in 2026. 

Lifestyle & the Human Animal Bond

Lifestyle & the Human Animal Bond

Discover how pets integrate into their owners' lives, and how owners benefit from the human animal bond.

Pet Ownership Trends

Pet Ownership Trends

Learn about the most influential trends in pet ownership and what's driving them, including insights on generational preferences and behaviors.

Economic Impact

Economic Impact

Uncover how the current economy impacts pet owners and how it impacts their pet budget and spending.

PET INDUSTRY RESEARCH

Access the Latest Data Shaping Pet Product Demand in 2026

Get your Free Preview of APPA's 2026 State of the Industry Report — insights you need to inform product strategy, inventory planning, and retail sourcing.

APPA MEMBERS

Get your complimentary report

APPA's all-new State of the Industry Report is the definitive resource for understanding where the pet industry stands and where it's headed – and it's included with your APPA membership. Drawing on the latest data from APPA's 2025 National Pet Owners Survey, this report provides a data-driven analysis of pet industry spending and growth, as well as pet ownership behaviors and attitudes. Gain deep insights into the U.S. pet household, with a spotlight on the most influential trends shaping pet ownership today. The newly redesigned report features deep dives into key trends, accessible, easy-to-understand charts, and trend analyses to guide you on what's most important in the pet industry in 2026.