Comprehensive Animal Tech Market Research in United States, 2024
Abstract
The global pet tech market was valued at USD 10.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to USD 12.7 billion in 2024, reaching USD 41.3 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.9%. This growth is driven by the increasing trend of pet humanization, where pets are treated as family members, and rising consumer spending on pet care products. The United States is a key player in this market, with 70% of households owning pets, totaling 90.5 million homes. In 2020, Americans spent $103.6 billion on their pets, and this figure is expected to rise to $109.6 billion by 2021, highlighting the robust demand for pet-related technologies.
The U.S. pet tech market is expected to grow from USD 15.79 billion in 2024 to USD 18.28 billion in 2025, with a projected CAGR of 15.8%. The U.S. veterinary equipment and disposables market, valued at USD 871.0 million in 2023, is also projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is fueled by the well-established veterinary healthcare infrastructure, increasing companion animal population, and rising awareness about animal health. The U.S. accounts for nearly 40% of the global veterinary equipment and disposables market, driven by high demand for dog care and significant investments in companion animals.
The expansion of the pet tech market is further supported by technological advancements and the increasing prevalence of pet-related health issues. The companion animal segment, which accounted for 73.9% of the market in 2023, is leading the charge due to the humanization of pets and the availability of AI-based pet health solutions. Additionally, the small animal segment, which held a 70.91% revenue share in 2023, is growing due to the rising small animal population and increasing emphasis on pet care and wellness. These factors, combined with the growing trend of pet ownership and awareness campaigns for animal rescue, are expected to reinforce market growth in the coming years.
1. Market Size
The global pet tech market size was estimated at USD 10.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to USD 12.7 billion in 2024, reaching USD 41.3 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.9%. This growth is primarily driven by the rising trend of pet humanization and increased consumer spending on pet care products. The United States, in particular, plays a significant role in this market, with 70% of U.S. households owning pets, accounting for 90.5 million homes. Americans spent $103.6 billion on their pets in 2020, and this figure is expected to rise to $109.6 billion by 2021, indicating a robust demand for pet-related technologies.
In the United States, the pet tech market is expected to grow from USD 15.79 billion in 2024 to USD 18.28 billion in 2025, with a projected CAGR of 15.8%. The U.S. veterinary equipment and disposables market, valued at USD 871.0 million in 2023, is also projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is fueled by the well-established veterinary healthcare infrastructure, increasing companion animal population, and rising awareness about animal health. The U.S. accounts for nearly 40% of the global veterinary equipment and disposables market, driven by high demand for dog care and significant investments in companion animals.
The expansion of the pet tech market is further supported by technological advancements and the increasing prevalence of pet-related health issues. The companion animal segment, which accounted for 73.9% of the market in 2023, is leading the charge due to the humanization of pets and the availability of AI-based pet health solutions. Additionally, the small animal segment, which held a 70.91% revenue share in 2023, is growing due to the rising small animal population and increasing emphasis on pet care and wellness. These factors, combined with the growing trend of pet ownership and awareness campaigns for animal rescue, are expected to reinforce market growth in the coming years.
2. Market Segmentation
The U.S. Pet Tech market is a rapidly growing sector driven by increasing pet ownership, rising disposable incomes, and a growing emphasis on pet health and safety. This analysis delves into the key segments of the market, compares their characteristics, and evaluates their potential and challenges.
Key Segments
The U.S. Pet Tech market can be segmented based on geography, product type, animal type, application, and end-user industry. Each segment offers unique insights into the market dynamics and consumer behavior.
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Geography: North America, particularly the United States, dominates the global Pet Tech market, accounting for over 40% of the market share in 2023. The region’s high pet ownership rate (70% of households) and significant pet-related expenditure ($109.6 billion in 2021) drive demand for innovative pet technologies.
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Product Type: The market is segmented into monitoring equipment, tracking equipment, entertainment equipment, feeding equipment, and pet wearables. Pet wearables are the most popular, offering features like health monitoring and GPS tracking.
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Animal Type: Dogs and cats dominate the market due to their popularity as companion animals. The dog segment is expected to grow significantly, driven by rising adoption rates and disposable income.
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Application: Key applications include health and fitness tracking, location tracking, pet training, nutrition management, and grooming. Health and fitness tracking is the largest segment, valued at $2.9 billion in 2023.
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End-User Industry: The market is divided into household and commercial segments. The household segment dominates, driven by the increasing adoption of smart gadgets for pets.
Segment Comparison
Segment | Key Characteristics | Market Size | Target Audience | Ability to Pay | Demand Drivers |
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Geography | North America (U.S.) dominates due to high pet ownership and disposable income | 40% global market share | Pet owners in high-income households | High | Rising pet health issues, adoption of rescue pets |
Product Type | Pet wearables lead due to health and location monitoring features | Largest segment | Tech-savvy pet owners | Medium to High | Emphasis on pet safety and well-being |
Animal Type | Dogs and cats dominate; dogs expected to grow faster | Largest share | Dog and cat owners | Medium to High | Rising adoption rates, disposable income |
Application | Health and fitness tracking is the largest segment | $2.9 billion in 2023 | Health-conscious pet owners | High | Increasing focus on pet health |
End-User Industry | Household segment dominates due to growing pet ownership and smart gadget adoption | Largest segment | Household pet owners | Medium to High | Need for remote monitoring and pet safety |
Analysis of Potential and Challenges
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Geography (U.S.)
- Potential: The U.S. market is highly lucrative due to its large pet ownership base and high disposable income. The growing trend of pet humanization and adoption of rescue pets further fuels demand.
- Challenges: Market saturation and intense competition among key players could limit growth opportunities for new entrants.
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Product Type (Pet Wearables)
- Potential: Pet wearables are gaining traction due to their ability to monitor health and location, offering peace of mind to pet owners. The segment is expected to grow as pet owners prioritize safety and well-being.
- Challenges: High costs and limited awareness among some consumer groups may hinder adoption.
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Animal Type (Dogs and Cats)
- Potential: Dogs and cats are the most popular pets, and the dog segment is expected to grow significantly due to rising adoption rates and disposable income.
- Challenges: Limited innovation in products for other pets (e.g., fish, birds) may restrict market expansion.
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Application (Health and Fitness Tracking)
- Potential: This segment dominates the market and is projected to grow, driven by increasing awareness of pet health and fitness.
- Challenges: High costs of advanced health monitoring devices may limit accessibility for some consumers.
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End-User Industry (Household)
- Potential: The household segment is thriving due to the growing number of pets and the adoption of smart gadgets for pet care.
- Challenges: The commercial segment remains underdeveloped, representing an untapped opportunity.
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3. Players
The U.S. Animal Tech market is highly competitive, with a mix of established players and emerging startups driving innovation in pet care solutions. These companies are leveraging advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and wearable devices to cater to the growing demand for pet health and safety products. Below is an overview of the key players in the market, their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.
Key Players in the U.S. Animal Tech Market
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Elanco Animal Health
- Key Products: Pharmaceuticals, diagnostics
- Advantages: Extensive product portfolio, strong R&D capabilities
- Disadvantages: Limited focus on emerging pet tech solutions
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Zoetis, Inc.
- Key Products: Diagnostics, therapeutics
- Advantages: Technological edge, global market presence
- Disadvantages: High product costs
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Merck & Co. Inc.
- Key Products: Veterinary pharmaceuticals
- Advantages: Robust distribution network
- Disadvantages: Lagging in innovative pet tech
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Idexx Laboratories
- Key Products: Veterinary diagnostics, AI-based solutions
- Advantages: Cutting-edge technology, focus on companion animals
- Disadvantages: High-cost products
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Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH
- Key Products: Pharmaceuticals, vaccines
- Advantages: Global reach, strong focus on animal health
- Disadvantages: Intense competition in the U.S. market
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Whistle (Tagg)
- Key Products: GPS trackers, health monitors
- Advantages: User-friendly software, strong brand recognition
- Disadvantages: Competition from newer entrants
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FitBark
- Key Products: Activity monitors
- Advantages: Innovative health tracking solutions
- Disadvantages: Limited market reach
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PetPace
- Key Products: Smart collars, real-time health monitoring
- Advantages: Advanced technology
- Disadvantages: High price point
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Tractive
- Key Products: GPS trackers
- Advantages: Long battery life, real-time tracking
- Disadvantages: Low brand recognition in the U.S.
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Pawscout, Inc.
- Key Products: Smart tags, community-based tracking
- Advantages: Affordable, easy to use
- Disadvantages: Limited advanced features
Players Comparison: Key Metrics
Company | Key Products | Technological Edge | Market Positioning | Strengths | Weaknesses |
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Elanco Animal Health | Pharmaceuticals, Diagnostics | Strong R&D capabilities | Traditional veterinary leader | Extensive product portfolio | Limited focus on pet tech |
Zoetis, Inc. | Diagnostics, Therapeutics | Advanced diagnostics | Global leader in animal health | Technological edge | High product costs |
Whistle (Tagg) | GPS Trackers, Health Monitors | User-friendly software | Leading pet wearable brand | Strong brand recognition | Competition from new entrants |
FitBark | Activity Monitors | Health tracking innovation | Niche health monitoring | Innovative approach | Limited market reach |
Tractive | GPS Trackers | Long battery life, real-time | Expanding into the U.S. | Competitive pricing | Low brand recognition |
Analysis of Competitive Landscape
The U.S. Animal Tech market is characterized by high pet ownership rates, with 70% of households owning pets, creating a robust demand for innovative pet care solutions. Companies are focusing on integrating AI and IoT into their products to offer advanced health monitoring and tracking solutions. For instance, Vetology LLC generated over 155,000 AI reports in 2022, showcasing the growing adoption of AI in companion animal health.
The pet wearable segment is particularly competitive, with companies like Whistle, FitBark, and Tractive leading the market. These companies are leveraging technological advancements to offer features such as real-time tracking and health monitoring, which are highly valued by pet owners. However, the high cost of these products remains a barrier for some consumers, particularly those in lower income brackets.
In conclusion, the U.S. Animal Tech market is highly dynamic, with established players and new entrants competing to offer innovative and affordable solutions. Companies that can balance technological advancements with cost-effectiveness are likely to gain a competitive edge in this rapidly growing market.
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4. Trends
The U.S. pet tech market is undergoing significant transformation, driven by several key trends. The humanization of pets is a major driver, with pet owners increasingly treating their animals as family members. This has led to a surge in demand for advanced pet care solutions such as GPS trackers, health monitoring devices, and smart feeding systems3. Another notable trend is the rising prevalence of pet health issues, which has fueled the adoption of wearable devices that monitor vital signs, activity levels, and sleep patterns4. Additionally, the integration of AI and machine learning is revolutionizing pet care by offering personalized solutions and behavior monitoring, further enhancing the market’s growth potential5.
Technological advancements, such as the development of IoT devices and veterinary digital technology, are also shaping the market. These innovations are enabling pet owners to access real-time data about their pets’ health and well-being, driving the adoption of smart pet products2. Furthermore, the expansion of online pet care platforms is making advanced pet tech solutions more accessible to a broader audience, further accelerating market growth5.
5. Demographics
The U.S. pet tech market is heavily influenced by the country’s high pet ownership rate, with 70% of households owning a pet, equating to 90.5 million homes3. Dogs and cats dominate the market, with 69 million households owning at least one dog and 45.3 million owning at least one cat7. Income levels also play a significant role in shaping consumer behavior. Dog owners most commonly fall within the $50,000–$74,999 income range, while cat owners are more likely to earn $30,000 or less7. This demographic distribution highlights the broad appeal of pet tech products across varying income brackets.
The humanization of pets is a key driver of demand for pet tech products, as pet owners increasingly view their animals as family members and are willing to invest in their health and safety3. High disposable incomes in North America further fuel this trend, with consumers spending significantly on advanced pet care solutions such as GPS trackers and health monitoring devices3. Additionally, the growing adoption of rescue pets and the prevalence of pet health issues are contributing to the demand for innovative pet tech solutions3.
6. Buying Behavior
The decision-making process in the U.S. pet tech market is heavily influenced by the humanization of pets and the desire to ensure their safety and well-being. With 70% of U.S. households owning pets, consumers are increasingly viewing pets as family members, leading to a heightened focus on products that enhance pet health and safety3. The process typically begins with identifying a need, such as monitoring a pet’s health or ensuring its safety through GPS tracking. Consumers then evaluate options based on features, brand reputation, and technological advancements, often prioritizing products that offer multiple functionalities like health monitoring and real-time tracking6.
Several factors are driving purchasing behavior in the U.S. pet tech market. The high pet ownership rate, with 90.5 million households owning pets, creates a substantial demand for pet tech products3. Additionally, the rising expenditure on pet healthcare, which reached $31.4 billion in 2020, underscores the willingness of pet owners to invest in health monitoring gadgets3. The increasing prevalence of pet ailments is also pushing consumers to adopt smart tech solutions that monitor health metrics like heart rate and sleep patterns9.
Behavioral patterns in the market reflect a growing trend toward the adoption of smart pet products. Pet wearables, particularly those with GPS tracking and real-time positioning features, are witnessing a surge in demand as pet owners prioritize safety6. Additionally, the increasing incidence of pet health issues is driving the adoption of health monitoring devices, which are expected to dominate the market in the coming years4.
7. Regulatory Environment
The U.S. pet tech market is heavily regulated by agencies such as the FDA and the USDA, which ensure that products meet stringent safety, efficacy, and quality standards. For instance, in March 2024, the FDA approved Dechra’s DuOtic for treating otitis externa in dogs under the New Animal Drug Applications process, and CONTRASED by Parnell Technologies Pty. Ltd. under the Abbreviated New Animal Drug Application (ANADA) process10. Additionally, state-level regulations, such as the mandatory microchipping ordinance in Las Vegas effective from August 2024, further shape the market landscape6.
Regulations play a dual role in the pet tech market. On one hand, they foster consumer trust by ensuring product safety and efficacy10. On the other hand, stringent standards can delay market entry and innovation, as companies must navigate complex approval processes1. For example, the FDA’s rigorous approval requirements for new treatments can slow down the availability of innovative solutions, impacting competition and market dynamics.
The regulatory environment presents both risks and opportunities. The primary risk lies in the potential delays and increased costs associated with compliance, which may hinder smaller players from entering the market1. However, regulations also create opportunities by driving demand for compliant, high-quality products. For instance, the rising prevalence of pet illnesses and the growing trend of pet ownership in the U.S. are expected to bolster demand for intelligent pet tech products that meet regulatory standards4.
8. Economic factors
The U.S. Animal Tech market is heavily influenced by macroeconomic indicators and regional economic variations. With nearly 40% of the global veterinary equipment and disposables market share, the United States stands as a dominant player in this sector8. This dominance is underpinned by high pet ownership rates, as 70% of U.S. households own pets, equating to 90.5 million homes3. The region’s high disposable income and strong consumer preference for pet ownership further bolster the market, driving demand for innovative pet tech products such as GPS trackers and health monitoring gadgets3.
Economic disparities across income brackets also play a significant role in shaping the market. For instance, dog owners, who typically earn between $50,000 and $74,999 annually, are more likely to invest in advanced pet tech solutions compared to cat owners, who often fall into the $30,000 or less income bracket7. This income disparity highlights the need for affordable pet tech solutions to cater to diverse consumer segments, ensuring broader market accessibility.
The U.S. pet care market is thriving, with pet-related expenditures reaching $103.6 billion in 2020 and projected to rise to $109.6 billion by 20213. This growth is fueled by the humanization of pets, where owners increasingly treat their pets as family members and are willing to invest in their health and well-being7. However, the high cost of advanced pet tech products, such as smart collars and health monitoring devices, remains a barrier, particularly for budget-conscious consumers3.
The rising prevalence of pet illnesses is expected to drive demand for intelligent pet tech solutions, offering significant opportunities for market expansion4. Additionally, the companion animal segment, which accounted for 73.9% of the AI animal health market in 2023, is a key driver of technological advancements in the sector1. The U.S.’s well-established veterinary healthcare infrastructure and increasing animal healthcare expenditure have fostered innovation, such as AI-based pet health solutions, further propelling the market forward8.
9. Technical factors
The U.S. Animal Tech market is undergoing a technological transformation, driven by advancements in veterinary equipment, smart pet products, and AI-based health solutions. The high pet ownership rate, with 70% of U.S. households owning pets, has created a robust demand for innovative pet tech products3. Key technological trends include the adoption of smart pet products such as GPS trackers and health monitoring gadgets, which are increasingly popular among pet owners seeking to enhance their pets' well-being3.
AI-based solutions are also gaining traction in the market. For instance, Vetology LLC’s AI-driven veterinary radiology software exemplifies the integration of AI in companion animal health, with over 155,000 AI reports generated in 20221. These technologies are revolutionizing the way pet health is monitored and managed, offering personalized care and actionable insights for pet owners.
However, the high cost of innovative products like smart collars and GPS trackers remains a significant barrier, limiting adoption among budget-conscious consumers3. Despite this, the market is witnessing a surge in demand for intelligent pet tech products, driven by the rising prevalence of pet illnesses and the humanization of pets4. The U.S. veterinary equipment and disposables market, valued at $871 million in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% through 2030, fueled by increasing animal healthcare expenditure and a focus on pet health8.
Technological advancements are reshaping the market structure by fostering innovation and expanding product offerings. Consumers are increasingly willing to invest in pet tech products, viewing their pets as family members and prioritizing their health and safety7. This shift in consumer behavior is driving the adoption of advanced technologies, further propelling market growth.
10. Consumer feedback
The U.S. pet tech market is thriving, driven by high pet ownership rates and increasing consumer willingness to invest in pet health and well-being. Approximately 70% of U.S. households own pets, translating to 90.5 million homes, with Americans spending $103.6 billion on pets in 2020, a figure expected to rise to $109.6 billion by 20213. Positive feedback highlights the growing adoption of smart pet products, such as GPS trackers and health monitoring gadgets, which cater to the rising demand for pet safety and health management3.
However, the market also faces challenges, particularly in terms of affordability. Income disparities among pet owners, such as dog owners earning $50,000-$74,999 versus cat owners earning $30,000 or less, may limit accessibility to advanced pet tech products7. Competitor feedback reveals that while GPS tracker providers benefit from high demand for real-time pet tracking, they face price sensitivity among lower-income consumers4. Similarly, health monitoring devices, despite their rising adoption, face limited awareness among some pet owners3.
To address these challenges, companies could introduce tiered pricing models or subscription-based services to make advanced pet tech products more accessible. Increasing awareness through targeted marketing campaigns, especially among lower-income pet owners, could also expand market reach9. Innovations in product design, such as multi-functional devices combining tracking and health monitoring, could further enhance value propositions and drive consumer adoption.
In summary, the U.S. pet tech market is poised for continued growth, driven by high pet ownership rates and increasing consumer investment in pet health. However, addressing affordability and accessibility challenges will be crucial for sustained market expansion. Companies that innovate and cater to diverse consumer segments will likely gain a competitive edge in this rapidly evolving industry.