Millions of homes have one or more pets. It is common for these pets to be considered in many cases as part of the family, some are even seen as family members. Pets represent an important part of many people’s lives, occupying a relevant place. Pets seem to fill individual spaces and needs that are otherwise difficult to fill. The most common pets are dogs and cats, although we can find others such as canaries, fish or rodents. According to INEGI, 57% of homes in Mexico have one or more pets. All of them require care, attention, equipment and utensils.
It is said that the Covid 19 pandemic caused an increase in attachment and preference for having pets at home. 85% of Mexican consumers have commented that they have a certain level of empathy for pets in general. Pets seem to have a positive impact on people’s moods. It is debatable whether marketing influences anything to improve attachment to any pet. However, spending on pets seems to exceed $2.5 billion in Mexico alone. The Legiscomex.com site indicates that it is an expense that grows with a force of up to 25% annually.
There are many things that pets consume: food, care, grooming. Apparently, the consumption of women as housewives is very aligned with that of pets. Much of this because they are the ones who run the home and seek a balance in the expenses of the family and the animals. The consumption behavior of pet owners still needs to be further understood, but some patterns seen in other markets can be considered. In this case, consumption patterns are given from the perspective of parents with children, where there is a pet in the home.
Community care. Pet parents are seeking protection from commercial uses. They will be seen much more in the future relating to or supporting sites or communities that seek pet care in all kinds of settings. Supporting these types of initiatives can be done by buying a product or brand that sponsors them.
Proud of your pet. Every day it is seen more that pet owners show them in many digital media. It is common to see them on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. There is even the case that the image of the pet is used as identification of the owner. Many of these behaviors
they are going viral and very accepted. Marketing can continue to support this behavior to promote their brands taking care of their image at all times.
Milestone celebrations. It is common to see pets playing at birthday parties, especially those of children. Pet owners now also celebrate such milestones as adoption dates, training of all kinds, as well as an infinity of mischief they perform. Today digital social networks even allow videos of many of these events. Companies can improve the relationship with these owners by celebrating these types of events with them, in a similar way to what they do with people, all proportions kept.
Whistle at pets. Parents like to make their children whistle, but now also their pets. When buying toys or particular clothes, this tendency is noticeable. Companies that offer children’s items may develop an additional line of products for pets.
These four potential behaviors look set to develop further in the future, especially with the large number of pets out there today. In addition, since pets are an element that influences the mood of the owners, this attachment can be used in something. Pets do not consume directly, but like many other product users, customers are their owners and you have to focus on them.