Manufacturers’ trade association UK Pet Food has revealed new survey data showing just how much owners love their pets on the eve of National Pet Month (April).
The survey, conducted by Kantar and Soulor Consulting and featuring responses from 1,609 pet owners, found that 60% admitted to cuddling their pets on the sofa, with 51% showing their affection by kissing their companion animal. More than a quarter (31%) of people listen to music with their pets, 19% read them stories, and 17% even sing them lullabies to help them to sleep. Nearly a quarter (24%) of pet owners are incorporating their pets into their routines, taking them to cafes with them.
UK Pet Food is aiming to leverage National Pet Month to help educate the public on how to channel this love appropriately through its ongoing “Love Them Madly, Feed Them Widely” campaign.
Celebrity vet ‘Cat the Vet’ Cat Henstridge, who is an ambassador for the campaign, said: “There’s no doubt in my mind that as a nation, we love our pets unconditionally and we’re showing this more than ever before. The great news is, with such huge variety and choice of available across the pet food market, we shouldn’t need to make compromises in other areas of life to ensure they are well-nourished and cared for.
“As long as pet food is labelled ‘complete’, this means it provides all the nutrients your furry friend needs to stay happy and healthy. It’s really important that owners can feel confident and happy about the food choices they make for their pets – no matter what their budget or lifestyle might be.”
Nicole Paley, deputy chief executive at UK Pet Food, added: “As this survey shows, in the UK we adore our pets and naturally want to give them the very best. While we welcome choice and diversity in a thriving pet food market, all the feeding and diet options that are now available means navigating supermarket aisles, or shopping online can feel overwhelming at times for pet owners.
“UK Pet Food was established over 50 years ago as an independent body representing the whole pet food industry and offers pet owners impartial advice and information. So, whether a pet eats a traditional kibble, a raw diet or opts for fresh food, owners can be sure to find the advice and reassurance they need on our website and can always reach out to us for additional help and support.”
