A growing commitment to small pet health and wellbeing is emerging among pet owners in the UK, according to Supreme Petfoods’ newly released UK Small Pet Market Report 2024. Offering insights into current trends and behaviours, the report reveals that nearly 60% of owners take their rabbits to the vets at least once a year, with 85% of these visits focused on preventative health care, such as routine check-ups, vaccinations and neutering.
Based on a survey of 1,000 rabbit and guinea pig owners, the report also finds that only 40% of guinea pig owners visit the vet regularly and health issues drive this. For both rabbit and guinea pig owners, dental disease was the top health condition for which they sought advice, followed by gastro-intestinal stasis.
Claire Hamblion, Marketing Director at Supreme Petfoods, said, “It’s encouraging to see pet owners prioritising veterinary care and preventative health for their small pets. Understanding the common health issues affecting rabbits and guinea pigs is essential and with dental disease remaining the primary non-routine reason for vet visits, there is still a need to reinforce the importance of a high fibre hay-based diet.”
The report further highlights that rabbit and guinea pig owners tend to be ‘pet people’, with over 50% also owning a dog or cat. On average, small pet households include four to five pets, indicating a deep commitment to pet ownership. Supporting these clients with the knowledge and resources they need to care for their small pets can foster loyal client relationships and pay dividends in the long run.
In addition, the report shows that 80% of small pet caregivers are female – an increase and notable demographic shift since Supreme’s previous survey two years ago. The data also indicates a rise in rabbits being kept as house pets, with 55% of owners choosing to house them indoors. This trend reflects an evolving approach to pet care, where small pets are increasingly seen as family members deserving of dedicated, high-quality care.
“Understanding the health needs of small pets and the preferences of their owners is crucial for shaping our product range and approach,” said Claire. “This report not only reflects current trends but also provides actionable insights for the future.”
The UK Small Pet Market Report 2024 is now available for download on the Supreme Petfoods website. For more detailed insights and data, please visit https://supremepetfoods.com/blog/uk-small-pet-market-report-2024/
Press contact: Katy Ellison, katy@companionconsultancy.com, Tel 07596 217372. Further images available on request.
About Supreme Petfoods
Supreme Petfoods brings expertise and innovation to pet care and nutrition. The company’s Tiny Friends Farm and Science Selective brands are two of the world’s most well-known names in small pet food and treats. Supreme was the first to create high-quality specialist pet foods for small pets, driven by a belief that all animals deserve the best, even the small ones. The company’s fundamental mission is to do the very best for all pets to enhance their welfare and quality of life, a commitment that has guided them from the outset. When it comes to nutrition, Supreme’s foods are known for being healthy as well as tasty, with no compromises and the company is proud to have built a reputation for expertise in high-quality pet care. For over 30 years Supreme has used this expertise to help ensure pets live long, healthy lives.
Find out more about Supreme at www.supremepetfoods.com
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