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Are 30 Million Pet Parents Choosing Pet Tech Over Vets?

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Neha

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8 min read

02 Dec, 2024

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India’s pet care landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with pet tech emerging as a significant contribution to pet care. As of 2024, India is home to over 30 million pet parents, a number that continues to grow at a rapid pace.


This shift is driven by changing societal norms, increasing disposable incomes, and a deepening emotional connection between humans and their pets. The pet care market, valued at over INR 7,500 crore in 2023, is expected to surpass INR 10,000 crore by 2025, with pet technology playing a crucial role in this growth.


In this article, we delve into the role of pet tech in shaping the Indian pet care ecosystem, its adoption trends, and how it aligns with the evolving behaviors and spending habits of Indian pet parents.


Indian Pet Parents: A Snapshot of Behaviors and Trends

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1. Rise of Pet Parenting

India has seen a cultural shift in how pets are perceived. Pets are increasingly considered part of the family rather than merely animals. This humanization of pets has significantly influenced how pet parents approach care:


  • Emotional Bonding: Over 60% of urban pet parents in a 2023 survey reported spending more on their pets’ well-being than on discretionary items for themselves.


  • Youth-Driven Trend: Millennials and Gen Z, who make up nearly 70% of India’s pet owners, are at the forefront of adopting innovative pet care solutions.


2. Spending Behavior

The Indian pet parent is no longer hesitant to spend on high-quality products and services. According to a 2023 report by Petex India,


  • Monthly Expenditure: An average Indian pet parent spends between INR 3,000 and INR 10,000 monthly on pet care, with urban households often exceeding INR 15,000.


  • Categories: Major spending categories include food (50%), grooming (15%), healthcare (20%), and toys and accessories (10%).


  • Technology Investments: Over 25% of pet owners in India are now investing in pet tech products, with this figure expected to double by 2025.


How Pet Tech is Shaping the Pet Care Landscape

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1. Health Monitoring and Preventive Care

Health-focused pet tech is gaining traction in India, driven by a need for personalized and preventive care. Here's how:


  • Wearable Devices: Smart collars like Wagr track pets’ activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns. For example, pet parents in cities like Bengaluru use these devices to ensure their dogs get sufficient exercise despite space constraints.


  • Apps for Medical Records: Platforms like MyPetBuddy help parents manage vaccinations, deworming schedules, and vet appointments. This ensures comprehensive care for pets.

A Chennai-based pet parent noticed lethargy in their Labrador through a fitness tracker, which flagged low activity levels. A subsequent vet visit revealed early signs of arthritis, allowing timely intervention.


2. Enhanced Convenience for Urban Pet Parents

India’s urban pet owners often struggle to balance work and pet care. Here's how technology offers a solution:


  • Automated Feeders: Smart feeding systems allow owners to control portion sizes and feeding schedules remotely, ensuring pets are fed on time, even when owners are away.


  • Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes: Devices like Litter-Robot are gaining popularity among cat owners, automating waste disposal and reducing daily maintenance.


In Mumbai, a dual-income family uses a smart feeder for their Persian cat, syncing meal times with their office schedules.


3. Safety Solutions


Tractive GPS Pet Tracker for Dogs and Cats


Safety features are a significant draw for pet tech in India, particularly in urban areas with dense populations These are a few ways tech helps:


  • GPS Tracking Collars: Devices like Tractive allow pet parents to locate their pets in real-time. These are particularly popular in metropolitan areas, where pets often risk getting lost.


  • Geofencing Technology: Alerts notify owners if pets leave designated safe zones. This feature is invaluable for pet parents in cities with heavy traffic.


4. Emotional Engagement Through Interactive Tech

Pet parents in India are increasingly turning to tech to keep their pets emotionally engaged:


  • Smart Cameras: Cameras with two-way communication, such as Furbo, allow pet parents to check on their pets and dispense treats remotely.


  • Interactive Toys: Toys like Pebby keep pets entertained and mentally stimulated, reducing stress and destructive behavior in their absence.


A Pune-based couple working in IT uses interactive toys to engage their beagle during long work hours, reducing separation anxiety.


Veterinary Care and Pet Tech Integration

A screengrab from the Supertails website that has online vets.


Telehealth Services

Veterinary telehealth platforms have become essential in India, especially in remote areas:


  • Platforms: Services like VetOnCall connect pet parents to licensed veterinarians for advice on non-critical issues.


  • Convenience: Telehealth reduces travel stress for pets and is ideal for minor consultations.


Wearables in Veterinary Diagnostics

Veterinarians increasingly rely on data from pet tech wearables to diagnose and treat conditions:


  • Heart Rate Monitors: Assist in detecting cardiac issues.


  • Mobility Trackers: Help assess recovery progress after surgeries.


Why Indian Pet Parents are Embracing Pet Tech

The rising popularity of pet tech in India can be attributed to several factors:


  • Increased Awareness: Pet parents are becoming more aware of the benefits of preventive healthcare.


  • Convenience: Urban lifestyles demand solutions that save time while ensuring pets’ well-being.


  • Affordability: With increasing competition, pet tech products are becoming more accessible, with entry-level devices priced at ₹2,000-₹5,000.


  • Emotional Connection: The humanization of pets encourages investment in products that enhance their comfort and happiness.


Balancing Technology with Traditional Pet Care

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While pet tech offers numerous advantages, it is essential to strike a balance:


  • Veterinary Expertise: No device can replace a trained veterinarian's diagnostic and treatment skills.


  • Human Interaction: Emotional bonds formed through personal interaction are irreplaceable, making it crucial to complement tech usage with direct engagement.


Future of Pet Tech in India

The Indian pet tech market is poised for exponential growth. Innovations like AI-driven behavioral analysis and smart nutrition plans are expected to redefine pet care. Additionally, local startups are likely to make these technologies even more affordable, ensuring widespread adoption.

Want to know more about Pet Startups? Click here!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How big is the pet care market in India?

The market is projected to exceed INR 10,000 crore by 2025, with pet tech being a significant contributor.


2. Are pet tech products affordable in India?

Yes, while premium products are available, many affordable options, like Wagr fitness trackers, cater to a broader audience.


3. What are the most popular pet tech solutions in India?

GPS collars, smart feeders, interactive toys, and telehealth platforms are among the most sought-after technologies.


4. Can pet tech replace traditional care?

No, pet tech is a complementary tool. Regular vet visits and human interaction remain irreplaceable.


5. What’s the future of pet tech in India?

With rising awareness and disposable incomes, the adoption of pet tech is expected to grow, supported by local innovations and increased affordability.

Conclusion

Rise of pet tech in India is revolutionizing how pet parents care for their furry companions. As the market grows, pet tech will continue to enhance convenience, strengthen human-animal bonds, and ensure pets receive the best possible care in India.

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