For most pet owners, their furry friends are more than an animal in the house: owning a pet is like having another family member. Nearly 2/3 of American households now own pets, and 97% of owners view their pets as part of the family.  Today’s pet parents accept responsibility for taking care of their pet’s health and wellness, and it is a priority to provide everything that their pet needs to enjoy their best life.

Let’s take a look at the top pet trends in 2025.

1. Voluntary Pet Benefits Are Here to Stay

More and more employers are starting to include pet benefits in their employee benefit packages. Many pet-owning employees now expect access to pet-related perks through their workplace, such as flexible work arrangements and pet insurance. For example, if a pet needs to visit the vet or an employee needs to be home to support the pet’s health, employers might offer the option for remote work or a flexible schedule to accommodate their needs.

In fact, a 2024 study released by Aflac revealed that over 3 out of 5 employees contemplated leaving their current job for one with better benefits, even if it meant taking a pay cut. 

Voluntary pet benefits offer a financial safety net, especially because the cost of veterinary services is continuing to rise. Pet insurance makes it easier to access necessary veterinary care without worrying about the financial impact. Employer group pet insurance plans and pet care bundles help employees keep a check on out-of-pocket expenses and reduce the financial burden of pet care.

Another popular, pet-centric benefit is allowing employees to bring their pets to work. Pet-friendly workplaces not only reduce employees’ worry about their pet, helping they stay focused and productive at work – studies also show improvements in company morale, mental health, and employee engagement.

2. Nutrition Strategy to Personalize Pet Health Plans

Just like with humans, nutrition has a huge effect on overall pet health. The reality is that cheap pet food isn’t sufficient if for pets to thrive. As a result, many pet owners are investing in tailored diets to ensure optimal nutrition for their animals.

Many pet stores now carry fresh and organic pet food designed for specific types of animals. Pet owners who want to take it to the next level can even use a DNA testing program that helps pet owners create breed-specific nutrition plans.

The goal is to ensure that the pet’s diet is focused on anti-oxidant-rich, clean ingredients. Many of these diets use minimally processed ingredients and foods that the animal would eat naturally in the wild. Additionally, supplements are another option to support digestion and joint health, or even provide anxiety relief.

Other pet wellness services include alternative therapies such as herbal medicine, chiropractic care, and more.

3. How Smart Pet Tech is Changing the Industry

We are seeing a variety of pet tech advancements that are also impacting the pet trends, including:

AI-Powered Pet Devices: AI technology can be used in many devices and accessories, such as feeders, pet cameras, and interactive toys. They can track hydration and urinary health using smart litter boxes and water bowls. Even if pet owners are away from the house, they can stay connected with your pets.

• GPS Tracking: To keep track of their furry friends, pet parents can get their pets chipped or use a GPS device attached to their collar. GPS technology provides peace of mind in the case of a lost pet.  
• Biometric Sensors: Certain types of pet tech provide insights about pet health. If a pet has been diagnosed with any health conditions, these sensors provide real-time data that can be critical in catching life-threatening emergencies before they happen.
• Telehealth Appointments: For questions about pet health symptoms, it’s possible to schedule a telehealth appointment instead of traveling to the local vet. These virtual consultations save time and money, giving convenient access from home.

4. Mental and Emotional Well-Being for Pets

Mental health support isn’t just for humans anymore: today’s pet health trends include mental health and wellness for pets, including:

Mental Health: Pet products such as sound therapy devices and weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety. Additionally, interactive toys and enrichment activities can be helpful for supporting cognitive health.

Pet Socialization: Many pets enjoy interacting with other animals. Social networks, animal parks, meet-up groups, and pet-friendly coworking spaces are becoming popular avenues for pet socialization. Groups are available online; apps can also provide options to schedule playdates or local training classes.

Pet Bereavement Leave: Losing a pet can be a difficult time. More companies are now offering pet bereavement leave to help their employees cope with saying goodbye to a furry family member.

5. Sustainable Pet Care

People of all ages understand the importance of sustainability, especially when buying products for their pets. The good news is that eco-friendly options are becoming more widely available in the pet industry. It’s now easy to find biodegradable poop bags, compostable litter, and zero-waste pet packaging. Pet bedding, toys, and accessories are often produced with recycled materials.

Many pet grooming providers have switched to using eco-friendly products and non-toxic shampoos. It’s also possible to save water with waterless pet shampoos. The goal is to reduce the need to rely on chemical-heavy products and instead use products that are made with natural, sustainable, and non-toxic ingredients.

Pet Trends Will Continue to Evolve Through 2025 and Beyond

It is fun to see the changing landscape in the pet industry. Not only is pet ownership diversifying, but pet owners now have access to more products and services than ever before.

As the pet industry continues to develop, employers are recognizing the importance of family pets. We’ll continue to see an expansion of pet wellness programs and available products and resources for all types of pets.

To support your employees’ entire family – including their pets – with next level pet benefits, visit Pet Benefit Solutions at https://www.petbenefits.com/ to learn more and request a quote.