A retail perspective on orthopedic pet beds

The growing focus on pet health and comfort is driving increased demand for orthopedic beds that are specially designed to provide the necessary support for pets.

As a result, the market is evolving rapidly, with options ranging from memory foam and egg-crate foam to gel-infused beds. PETS International asked retailers about the category’s performance.

Premium products perform well

UK pet giant Pets at Home carries over 130 lines in its core bedding range, of which over 40% have a supportive foam filling to provide the necessary support and durability.

According to the company, like-for-like sales of memory foam beds are up 40% and the pet bedding category “remains resilient”.

In addition to the retailer’s existing ranges that already include orthopedic beds as part of their assortment, earlier this year Pets at Home launched a new luxury range of bedding called ‘Noble’. This features beds with premium fabrics and fillings to cater to the increasing demand for high-end pet products.

As a result of the good performance of these premium products – representing 8% of the company’s total sales mix – the retailer launched a new range of cat bedding under the same brand in September.

Beds for every season

“Seasonal ranges have also performed well, in particular our fun printed mattresses in our summer collection. We will be launching a Christmas collection under our Wainwright’s brand later this year,” comments a Pets at Home spokesperson.

Across the pond, US-headquartered Pet Supplies Plus has also witnessed strong performance in the category over the past year.

The retailer, with over 720 locations throughout the country, says that orthopedic beds are among the top sellers and sees this as an indication of sustained demand from customers.

“This can be attributed to several factors, including increased awareness of the importance of joint health and comfort for pets, as well as the expansion of orthopedic bed offerings to cater to a wider range of pet sizes and preferences,” comments the retailer.

Deciding factors for consumers

Canada’s leading pet retailer Pet Valu agrees that orthopedic beds play a role in joint health: “They are great for senior pets but can also aid in promoting healthy joints and improve mobility, making them good for puppies and kittens to help reduce issues as they age.”

The Ontario-based firm has its own Bailey & Bella brand of orthopedic beds that evenly distribute the pet’s weight to relieve pressure on hips and joints.

However, besides the health and comfort of their pets, practicality is also on consumers’ minds, according to Pets at Home. The retailer believes that the machine washability of its beds is an additional consideration in purchasing decisions.