According to new research, pet owners are set to spend around £274 million on pets this Christmas.
A study of UK pet owners commissioned by Natures Menu revealed that 81% of Brits admit to buying their four-legged friend a Christmas gift.
The average amount Brits spend on canines or felines during the festive period has been revealed as between £10 and £30. However, 8% of the nation will splurge over £50 – more than what they spend on a relative.
Pet owners aged between 18 and 24 years old are the most animal-mad, with one in five admitting to splashing out the most.
The top five gifts for pets this Christmas have been revealed as:
1 Favourite treat (60%)
2 Soft or squeaky toy (44%)
3 Tasty meal (27%)
4 Ball/outdoor activity (19%)
5 Pet advent calendar (14%)
Melanie Sainsbury, Veterinary Educational Manager at Natures Menu, said: “The research shows that our dogs and cats really are part of the family, with such a high proportion due to find a gift under the tree this Christmas. However, it’s important that we buy the right gift to make them purr with pleasure or wag with excitement.
“Just like us, some pets are known to put on weight over the Christmas period, therefore present which encourage exercise are always a hit for health and wellbeing. Always ensure that whatever item you purchase for your pet, they are always monitored whilst playing with it and be sure to remove any damaged or broken toys immediately to prevent any emergency trips to the vets over Christmas.
“With over half of us giving our pet their favourite treats this Christmas, it’s important to buy from reputable companies. A treat doesn’t have to be Santa shaped or sugar laden – natural un-cooked bones, chews and high meat chunks are usually most welcome and no matter how wide those puppy eyes get, never chocolate, mince pies or Christmas cake.”
For more information about Natures Menu’s healthy treats or to order a festive dinner for your dog or cat delivered in refrigerated vans to your door, you can visit www.naturesmenu.co.uk.
