During the holiday season, while buying presents for fussy in-laws or awkward relatives can be a challenge, pets offer a different kind of joy. A dog won't grumble if their treats aren't the latest, and a cat won't disdain a Christmas tree-shaped scratch tree. This unique aspect might explain why Britons are so eager to splurge on their pets this Christmas. Sales of seasonal pet treats, toys, and food have witnessed a remarkable boom.

"This Christmas, Britons Shower Love on Their Pets with Festive Treats"

Pet Humanization and Christmas Spending

Emma Clifford, from Mintel, highlights that the ongoing trend of pet humanization plays a part. Pets are increasingly regarded as family members and stress relievers. Many owners are willing to spend more on their pets' care. In 2023, a survey showed that 18% of Britons planned to spend more on their pet at Christmas than on their significant other. Moreover, more than half (56%) of pet owners would cut back on their own spending rather than that of their pets.Even with increasing costs forcing some to give up their pets for adoption, the demand for pet Christmas offerings continues to grow. Retailers and manufacturers are expanding their pet Christmas ranges. Clifford adds that people tend to prioritize household spending when there's a pet involved. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of pet owners who use and buy household care products prioritize their pet's health over keeping their homes clean.

Waitrose's Popular Pet Lines

Waitrose has expanded its pet offerings over the years. Their Christmas-inspired pet food for dogs, cats, and birds comes in roast-dinner style flavors and classic Christmas flavoured snacks. Toys like Reindeer Bobble Balls and Christmice are also popular. There are dog stockings, cat stockings, and mince pies for dogs. The food ranges have seen significant increases. Visits to the Waitrose online mince pies for dogs page have risen by 351% in the last 30 days. Last month, sales of Marleybones Lush Nosh Lamb Dog Food at Waitrose were up 84% year on year, and Forthglade Lamb & Chicken Trays increased by 343%. Some dogs even wake up to a stocking at the end of their bed, with sales of the Good Boy Pawsley Dog Xmas Stocking up 54% year on year.Nicki Hobbs, the pet food and pet care buyer at Waitrose, said, "This Christmas, our customers are looking to share the love with their pets, embracing them as key members of family households. That's why we're driving category growth this Christmas, giving customers the perfect way to pamper their pets."