Americans are expected to spend $143.6 billion on their pets by the end of 2023, according to the American Pet Products Association. Meanwhile, 89% of pet owners say they are going to dig into their pocketbooks to maximize the best friend’s holiday joy. Here are five furry holiday spending trends in this week’s Five For Friday.
#5: Clothing
Two-thirds of American households own pets and a third of them will buy holiday clothing for those pets, according to SoFi.
The most popular clothes are holiday sweaters, followed by collars, harnesses and hats. That’s not even accounting for holiday costumes, but for a more understated look, you can always go for a classy holiday bowtie.
It’s easy to think of dogs and cats the most in this category, but there is also a robust market for dressing guinea pigs.
#4: Travel
AAA says 115 million Americans will hit the road for the holidays and that means making plans for your furry friends. According to SoFi, 35% of pet owners budget for taking their pets with them.
It’s not too difficult if traveling by car, but airlines can charge $100-$200 each way for pets to tag along, according to Progressive.
For the 26% that will board animals this season, it can run them an average of $45 per night, according to Rover.
It’s always free if you can hand them off to friends and family, but that might cost you in goodwill, depending on their behavior.
#3: Grooming
Just like human children, you have to make sure your pet looks good for get-togethers. Thirty-eight percent of pet parents budget for grooming.
No one wants a smelly dog running around the house when your family is visiting. Beyond a haircut and bath, a nail trim is always helpful.
The average trip to an animal spa day runs $50-$125. To knock out grooming and travel, some places that handle boarding can also pamper your pet so they are nice and clean when you get home.
#2: Photos
If you own a pet, you probably have a camera roll filled with pictures of that precious animal. According to SoFi, 45% of owners budget for including their pet in holiday photoshoots.
Millennials have gotten into sending out holiday cards and with the increase in pet ownership since the pandemic, furry friends are becoming the stars of those cards.
If you go through all the trouble of buying holiday clothes and getting them groomed, you might as well professionally document it for everyone you know.
#1: Gifts
So it’s clear people are somewhat obsessed with their pets. SoFi says 70% will buy a gift for them, with 27% spending more than $100 on pet gifts.
The most popular gifts are treats, followed by fun toys and then clothes, according to USA Today Blueprint.
Unlike the 4-year-old in your life, this baby can’t scream displeasure after getting something to wear rather than a toy.
