Fish, Small Mammal, Herptile, and Bird Products in the US, 4th Edition

Fish, Small Mammal, Herptile, and Bird Products in the US, 4th Edition

The market for fish, small mammal, herptile, and bird products has historically taken a back seat to the market for dog- and cat-focused offerings, due to these smaller pets’ significantly lower numbers in terms of both population and sales. A pandemic-related population surge in the “other pet” market thrust these smaller companion animals into the spotlight, with market sales experiencing double-digit increases in 2020 and 2021 as new pet owners purchased enclosures and other supplies to take care of their new pets. As of 2023, these new owners are maintaining their pets, and sales growth has moderated as a result. Packaged Facts projects that on top of a 7% increase experienced in 2022, the market for pets other than dogs and cats will grow 4% in 2023, reaching $3.6 billion in sales.

In addition to the larger pet owner base encouraged by the pandemic, other factors driving sales in this market include pet owner willingness to spend on their pets other than dogs and cats despite economic challenges; the enjoyment owners get from watching and interacting with these smaller pets; and a general attitude that other pets, though not always as affectionate as dogs and cats, are still valued members of the household. Another factor at play is the outsized part the pet specialty channel plays in the sales of products for other pets, with pet stores providing advice and product suggestions for other pet owners who may be unsure about how to best care for their pet.

Packaged Facts’ Fish, Small Animal, Reptile, and Bird Products in the US, 4th Edition examines these and other opportunities for growth in the other pet market, breaking out sales and marketing/new product trends by animal type. A list of top marketers and examination of changing channel trends, including the part played by pet specialty and online outlets, are also included. Featuring exclusive data from Packaged Facts’ Surveys of Pet Owners, the report examines attitudes and demographic characteristics of other pet owners, providing insight into motivations for both pet acquisitions and product choice.