Following the launch of new petfood and pet products at Global Pet Expo, Petsweekly.com compiled a list of the "Top 10 Pet Trends of 2013."
One trend listed was pet owners' increasing demands for all-natural, organic, "Made in USA" products.
According to the article: "We predict a number of other companies will be following suit as pet parents realize the value of raw, freeze-dried, and dehydrated foods for their pet. This is something that companies like the Honest Kitchen, Merrick and Stella & Chewy's have been doing for years. But, as we all know, it takes time for the big boys to implement change. The 'Made in the USA' logo will increase in importance as more pet owners refuse to support companies who manufacture in China and other locales, and instead prefer to support the local economy with their hard-earned money -- even if it does cost a bit more."
In addition, supplements and nutraceuticals for pets are expected to become more popular. "[T]here will be an even greater rise in the way we treat our pets for medical conditions, a large increase in the number of animal nutrition specialists and a lot of holistic veterinarians entering the scene," the article says.
New protein sources will also be increasingly used in petfoods, treats and toys. These alternative protein sources, ranging from alligator and crawfish to kangaroo and llama, are expected to become even more important as pet owners seek the best ways to keep their pets healthy.
Other trends included keeping chickens as pets, which could lead to more opportunities for the petfood industry, as well as re-purposed, environmentally responsible pet products and companies.