Unusual pet adoption patterns surface, driven by affordability

Gen Z adults and lower-income households show disproportionately high intent to adopt pets in the next six months.

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David Sprinkle
February 10, 2026
Pet adoption rates are becoming more nuanced among various demographics, including generation and income levels.
Pet adoption rates are becoming more nuanced among various demographics, including generation and income levels.
Andrea Gantz
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MRI-Simmons Q3 2025 Trending Topics data show that 6.1% of U.S. households plan to adopt a pet (of any type) within the next six months, equating to 15.8 million households. Consumer intention data is tricky, but this 6.1% figure is credible when compared to current pet adoption rates, with 5.1% of households having adopted a dog or cat within the last 12 months.

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