The changing seasons triggered a surge in essential purchases.
August and September marked the transition from summer to autumn, bringing increased temperature fluctuations and consequently shifting pets' clothing, food, housing, and transportation needs. Pet owners began upgrading their furry companions to more breathable items for the remainder of the summer, while also stocking up on autumn warmth. Thin pet beds, breathable leashes, and insect repellent collars were hot sellers, while moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, designed to address the dryness of autumn, also made their way onto shopping lists. The shift in physiological needs brought on by the seasonal transition led to a small peak in purchases for basic pet supplies.
The back-to-school season drove upgrades in supplies for "left-behind pets."
With the start of the school year in September, many students and working parents faced time and energy adjustments, leading to a surge in demand for care equipment for "left-behind pets." Sales of automatic feeders and smart water dispensers increased by over 50% month-over-month. Remote monitoring cameras paired with interactive cat toys became popular, allowing owners to keep an eye on their pets while on the go. Additionally, educational toys for pets to relieve boredom and soothing collars to alleviate anxiety have become popular purchases due to the demand for "alternative companionship."
The run-up to the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays has fueled a surge in travel gear purchases.
With less than two months until the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, families planning to travel with their pets have already started their shopping spree. Searches for travel gear such as pet airline crates, car seats, and portable folding cages have doubled. Sun-protective and breathable pet outdoor backpacks and paw protectors are also highly sought after. Meanwhile, small items such as portable pet tableware, disposable changing pads, and emergency medical kits, ideal for short trips, are becoming a regular on household shopping lists due to their "grab-and-go" convenience.
Evolving consumer values are driving quality purchasing.
Pet owners are becoming more rational in their spending habits, and during the August and September shopping boom, "quality first" was a prominent feature. Purchases of high-end staple foods, such as natural grain-free and prescription-grade grains, have increased, and pet products with antibacterial and environmentally friendly properties are becoming increasingly popular. Furthermore, pet apparel is no longer solely about aesthetics; it's now focused on fabrics that are both skin-friendly and functional. Smart thermostatic vests and reflective safety vests, combining practicality with a technological edge, are becoming new choices for quality consumption.
Online and offline collaborations are fueling purchasing activity.
To capitalize on the August and September consumer boom, pet supply retailers are launching collaborative promotions. Online platforms are using discount coupons and combo packages to attract orders, while livestream sales of pet supplies have attracted over 10,000 viewers. Offline pet stores are setting up "seasonal shopping areas" offering product trials and pairing suggestions. Some stores are also offering trade-in promotions to lower the barrier to entry. This dual online and offline approach is further fueling demand for pet supplies, fueling the ongoing consumption boom during the summer-autumn transition.
Written by: Luna
2025.8.13
