Increased Spending on Cats Benefits Pet Retailers Amid Softening Dog Product Sales

A cat in a kennel at the Austin Animal Center on July 31, 2025, highlights the growing trend of cat adoption in the U.S. According to sellers, cat owners are spending more on their pets, a positive sign for manufacturers and retailers of cat products. Despite rising fuel and grocery prices prompting consumers to tighten their budgets, sales of cat food and related items have been on the rise.

Companies like General Mills, Chewy, and Petco Health and Wellness Company noted strong performance in their cat product segments during recent quarterly earnings calls. In contrast, dog product sales continue to decline. The American Pet Products Association reported a 5% increase in cat ownership in 2025, bringing the total to approximately 53 million households. This modest rise follows a notable 23% surge in cat ownership in 2024.

The rising trend in cat ownership may be attributed to the relative affordability and ease of care for cats compared to dogs, as well as their suitability for smaller living spaces like apartments. On a recent earnings call, General Mills reported double-digit growth in cat food sales, which includes its Tiki Cat brand, while dog food sales saw a significant decline. CEO Jeff Harmening indicated that the increase in cat adoptions is influencing this trend.

However, Chief Operating Officer Dana McNabb emphasized that the declines in dog food sales cannot solely be attributed to shifts in pet ownership. She stated that improvements are needed in product formulation, packaging, and marketing strategies, as they previously faced challenges with their cat products that eventually turned around after targeting those areas.

Chewy CEO Sumit Singh and Petco CEO Joel D. Anderson echoed these trends, noting that while cat segments are strengthening, the dog market appears to be worsening. Petco's second-quarter earnings highlighted successful launches of cat product brands, including its Candy Shop treats, reinforcing their commitment to expanding their cat product offerings amid a softer dog business.