Pet Care in New Zealand

New Zealand Households Embrace Pet Companionship

The love for pets runs deep in New Zealand, where more than half the people have an animal friend at home. When looking at homes with multiple pets, cats are the clear favorite with 77.5% of these households having a feline friend, while dogs are a close second at 67%.

Beyond cats and dogs, New Zealand homes are full of other interesting pets. Some people keep fish (10.4%), while others have rabbits (8.2%). Smaller pets like hamsters and turtles also bring joy to many homes. All these different pets mean pet stores need to stock many types of food and supplies to keep everyone's pets happy and healthy.

Pedigree Dominates Dog Food Market

For dog owners specifically, certain brands dominate the market when it comes to feeding their dogs. Pedigree and Tuxedo are almost tied at the top, with 27.4% and 27.3% of dog owners choosing these brands. The competitive landscape extends to include Purina at 18.4%, while premium brands like Royal Canin maintain a solid presence with 15.1% market share.

Supermarkets Remain the Go-To for Pet Supplies

The way New Zealanders shop for their pets' needs presents an interesting picture of modern consumer behavior, as traditional retail channels maintain a strong foothold despite digital alternatives. An overwhelming 75% of pet owners rely on supermarkets as their primary source for pet food purchases, though the rise of online shopping has carved out its own significant niche at 17.1%. Small pet stores and vet clinics still play an important role, as many pet owners value face-to-face advice when buying pet supplies.

Veterinarians Lead as Trusted Advisors in Pet Care Information Sources

When New Zealand pet owners want to learn about taking better care of their pets, they turn to different sources. Veterinarians remain the most trusted source of pet care information, with 50.3% of owners turning to these professionals for guidance. The digital age has clearly influenced how pet owners educate themselves, as 38.5% utilize internet searches to learn about pet care. Social media also plays a growing role, influencing 22.8% of pet owners with tips, trends, and recommendations. This mix of sources highlights the need for accessible, credible, and engaging content across both professional and digital platforms.