What’s trending in beds and cushions?

Barkitecture dominated designer furniture trends in 2022 and continued to influence product development this year. Beyond the humanization of pets, higher spending and an increased interest in designer and comfort products have led to diversification and frequent launches across the pet bed and cushion categories.

Expenditure

The American Pet Products Association’s (APPA) 2023 survey reveals that 85% of dog owners and 75% of cat owners in the US have a bed for their pets. Almost 40% of owners have at least 1 bed, and about a quarter have 2.

During 2022, dog owners spent an average of $72 (€79) on pet beds, while cat owners spent $54 (€59). When it came to crates and cages, pet parents spent an average of $88 (€96) for dogs and $117 (€128) for birds.

Consumer demands

‘Certified ingredients’ and ‘eco-friendly products’ are some of pet parents’ demands for their furry friends’ beds and crates.

Kristin Moerman, Vice President of Creative at Central Home Brands – one of the largest pet furniture retailers – tells PETS International that pet parents seek transparency in ingredients, materials, and related third-party certifications “to make them feel confident in their buying decisions”.

“Exciting new launches in pet bedding continue to demonstrate the benefits of innovative materials like thermoregulation and microencapsulated fabric technologies, which are associated with a wide range of therapeutic benefits for the pet,” she says.

Multi-use and convertible beds, which can function in various spaces in the home or on the go, are also increasing in demand.

Luxury versus value

Luxury beds are an ongoing trend. According to the APPA, 9% of American cat parents owned designer beds for their felines in 2022. It is believed that 15% of millennial cat owners have a designer bed.

Earlier this year, Italian luxury brand Gucci began retailing plush mini settees for upward of £5,000 (€5,800 / $6,370). When it comes to luxe styles at a much more affordable price, FÜZI PETS’ April collection created quite a stir with its buttery soft faux fur designs.

Luxury mattress e-commerce retailer Saatva recently launched a luxury pet bed featuring an ergonomic design fitted with micro-coils to aid spinal alignment and a water-repellent fabric cover that combats pet dander.

However, Kristin Moerman points out that value is essential when purchasing these products. “We are seeing consumers prioritize price as a primary purchase driver.”

Therapeutic designs

Retailer Orvis witnessed a sales increase of 20% in their dog category between 2018 and 2022, led by its dog beds, hinting at the rising demand for products in this category.

The company has recently launched the Orvis RecoveryZone Couch Dog Bed, which specifically targets rest and recovery for active dogs of all ages. The product combines memory foam to maximize weight distribution, reducing pressure points and stress on a dog’s joints, muscles, and ligaments when lying down, and increases circulation for faster recovery. Its cover promotes airflow and breathability, regulating the dog’s body temperature and aiding in better sleep.

“Consumers want what’s best for their dog’s health and the environment, as well as the quality and longevity they expect from premium brands,” says Steve Hemkens, Vice President of Global Brand Strategy at Orvis.

Higher functionality

Other demands from pet parents are higher functionality, waterproof, anti-bacterial, scratch-resistant, and stain-repellent fabrics.

Hangzhou-based TianYuan Pet’s portfolio ticks all these boxes with its bedding options. The company’s Cozy Life series offers beds, cushions and even pet houses with orthopedic support, while the anti-static series features easy-to-clean fabric. Using ultrasonic embossing fabric ensures easier cleaning while providing a stylish appearance. The material also promotes warming and cooling features.

In addition, the company’s products use eco-friendly and sustainable materials certified by Taiwanese and American environmental protection agencies. “The key trends for pet beds in the Chinese market are going toward product innovation and recycled materials,” highlights Cherry Weng, Sales Director of TianYuan Pet.