Why Smart Pet Products Are the Next Big Opportunity for Distributors and Retail Chains

Smart pet devices are reshaping global pet retail. Dig into the numbers, regional insights, and a real-world European success story to see why now is the time to expand your SKU list.

1. Pet Tech Is a Structural Shift—not a Passing Fad

The global pet care market is forecast to exceed US $300 billion by 2030, with smart pet products projected to grow at 20.5% CAGR, reaching $22 billion by 2027.

Statista Report – Smart Pet Market Forecast Grand View Research – Pet Tech Industry Trends

Why is this shift happening?

Pet humanization is accelerating
Millennials and Gen Z dominate new pet ownership
Automated, data-driven living is becoming mainstream
Urban living and dual-income households seek convenience

2. Traditional vs Smart: What’s Really Different?

Aspect	Traditional Products	Smart Products
Feeding	Manual/mechanical	App scheduling, voice prompts
Hydration	Static bowl	Flowing, filtered, low-water alerts
Litter	Manual scoop	Self-cleaning, deodorizing
Engagement	Passive	Cameras, usage data
Data	None	Real-time analytics

Smart SKUs are not gadgets—they are daily care solutions that create value for both the customer and the retailer.

Traditional Products

Basic functionality with no connectivity or data tracking capabilities, requiring manual operation and monitoring.

Smart Products

Connected devices with app integration, automation features, and data collection for improved pet care management.

3. Regional Snapshot: What Sells Where?

Region	Top Smart Category	Key Driver	2024–25 Trends
North America	Video fountains & feeders	Smart home integration	+22% YoY growth (2023)
Europe	Zigbee-compatible, energy-efficient feeders	Privacy + sustainability	CAGR 8.7% (2024–2030)
Asia-Pacific	App-connected feeders <$80	Urban pet ownership boom	89% sales surge on Alibaba (2022)
Latin America	GPS + health wearables	Outdoor pets & safety	CAGR 13.7% to 2030

Retailers must localize product selections and avoid one-size-fits-all rollouts.

4. What Retailers Want—And the Pitfalls

Smart products are high-margin, but high-expectation. Common issues faced by poorly prepared suppliers:

Unreliable pumps or sensors
Poor app translations or buggy firmware
High DOA (dead-on-arrival) rates
Inflexible packaging or after-sales process

Vet your suppliers not just on price, but also on their firmware maintenance cycle, QA process, and app integration roadmap.

5. Case Snapshot: Tikpaws × Leading European Chain

In 2024, a prominent European pet retail group replaced their underperforming smart feeders with Tikpaws units across 60+ stores. The previous models suffered from app instability and frequent motor failure.

"Tikpaws helped us relaunch a category that was struggling. Localization, clear training, and fewer defects gave our team confidence—and our customers noticed."

— EU Category Manager, Multi-Nation Pet Retail Group

Results After 6 Months:

11.8% → 2.1%

Return rate dropped

+28%

Re-orders increased

-40%

Warranty claims reduced

Tikpaws provided:

CE/FCC-certified smart fountains and feeders
Multi-language Tuya and custom app compatibility
Transparent production tracking
Sustainable EU packaging for retail compliance

Explore Tikpaws OEM/ODM Capabilities

6. Strategic Tips for Distributors

Start with flagship SKUs

Focus on products that fill an unmet need in your region to establish market presence quickly.

Offer accessory bundles

Create value-added packages with filters, cleaning kits, and other complementary products.

Localize content

Adapt manuals, apps, and customer support channels to regional languages and preferences.

Secure reliable suppliers

Partner with manufacturers who offer scalable output and maintain software control.

Final Word

Pet parents no longer want "cute"—they want smart, safe, and simplified. The brands and retailers who act now will define the future of pet care.

Want to discuss samples, regional exclusivity, or OEM pricing?

Contact Tikpaws Today