Our pets are part of the family, so it makes sense that we want to celebrate birthdays with them. But how many households roughly celebrate their pet turning another year older? According to Statista, in 2022, just under two-thirds of owners between 30 and 44 years old stated that they buy gifts for their pets for birthdays or holidays in the United States. This means the number is closer to 66%. But what does this figure really mean for owners and the special pets in their lives? Let’s take a closer look!
Celebrating That Special Pet
While two-thirds of pet owners between the ages of 30 and 44 admit to celebrating birthdays, respondents over the age of 65 stated that they were less likely to buy presents for their pets on their birthdays. So, the way we treat our pets has changed.
Over the years, the pet industry expenditures have increased and grown over 500% between 1994 and 2020. In 2021, the figure reached over $126 billion. Also, 70% of American households owned more than one pet in 2020 compared to 56% in 1988.
According to the Humane Society, which cites a study by Psychology Today, in 2019, 81% of owners were aware of when their pet’s birthday was, and 77% celebrated the day by buying a present for their pet. This could suggest that fewer people are celebrating their pet’s birthdays now. However, the pet industry’s growth shows that owners are investing more money in their pet’s well-being than ever before. So, it could be that we are treating our pets more throughout the year instead of on just this one day.
How to Celebrate Your Pet’s Birthday
In the US, 62% of people believe their pets are their best friends. The most common pet is, unsurprisingly, dogs, with approximately 69 million American households owning at least one in 2021-2022. Next are cats and fish, with 45.3 million households owning a cat and 11.8 million households owning a freshwater fish. How an owner might celebrate a special fish in their life will differ from how a dog owner will, but it doesn’t make one celebration less valid.
For example, a goldfish’s 10th birthday is something not many people get to celebrate, but it’s an exciting day if you do. The oldest goldfish on record lived to be 43, which is an impressive age! So, how exactly could you celebrate your pet’s birthday? We’ll look at some of the most popular pets to give you an idea.
Dogs
There are many ways you can treat that special pup in your life, and some of them are free. Of course, your dog will appreciate a new bed or toy but don’t feel like you’re failing if money is tight. Dogs love nothing more than spending time with their favorite humans. You can go for a long walk on a hiking trail or visit the dog park, so your pet can celebrate its special day with its friends. If the weather does not permit you to spend time outside, you can move your play sessions inside and devote your time to spoiling and playing with your favorite canine.
Cats
Cats thrive on routine and throwing a big party might stress your cat more than excite them. Making the kitty in your life feel special doesn’t need to be something extravagant. You can buy some new toys and engage in play sessions with your pet or relax on the couch and watch some of your cat’s favorite feline videos. If your cat responds to catnip, you can use some of the herbs in your play sessions to elevate the experience to a new level.
Fish
Fish aren’t always given much credit for being very smart or having much of a memory, but research suggests that fish recognize their owners. They also have a conscious understanding of their surroundings, which means they notice when something changes. If you add a new plant to the aquarium, your fish may appreciate the addition, and it will certainly enjoy any healthy treats you drop in the water to celebrate its birthday.
Conclusion
Statistics suggest fewer people celebrate their pet’s birthdays, but it’s clear people are still marking the special day by buying a gift or doing something special with their pet.
There is no wrong or right way to celebrate your pet, whether you do it on their birthday, at Christmas, or on a random Wednesday. We’re sure your pet will appreciate whatever way you display your love to them, regardless of the date!
Featured Image Credit: Ruth Black, Shutterstock
