Health monitors and anti-theft trackers top the list of technology for UK pet owners

As technological advancements continue to develop, the latest survey of 1,000 UK dog and cat owners by Petplan, the UK’s no.1 pet insurer, reveals how owners are using tech to care for their pets today – and the innovations they most want to see in the future. 

Key findings include:

·         39% of pet owners most want advanced health monitoring for early disease detection, making it the top desired future technology.

·         38% want enhanced pet security and anti‑theft tracking features.

·         However, 24% of pet owners say they are concerned about the accuracy of pet technology.

Peace of mind is the biggest motivator behind pet technology

The most popular pet technologies are GPS collars and location monitoring trackers, used by nearly half of pet owners (41%). Younger dogs were much more likely to have a tracker to reduce the chance their pet gets lost (48% of dogs under one year have a GPS or location tracker compared to just 18% of dogs aged 13 and over).

Pet cameras are also popular among pet owners, particularly younger owners (used by 43% of Gen Z vs 23% of Baby Boomers).

Owners’ top motivations for using technology include reassurance and emotional support. Nearly two-thirds of pet owners (65%) use GPS collars or location trackers to provide “peace of mind”, and 48% use pet cameras to alleviate any worries or stress.

Interestingly, older pet owners tend to be more relaxed about pet technology. Whilst 41% of Baby Boomers say they have no concerns at all about pet technology, just 9% of Gen Z say the same.

What’s worrying owners about pet technology?

Cost is the primary concern when using pet technology; with high costs and ongoing subscription fees affecting 31% of pet owners.

Over a quarter of pet owners (26%) worry that pet technology may cause potential discomfort, irritation, or stress for their pet. Whilst 23% are concerned about over-reliance on technology and the potential reduction in human interaction.

Petplan’s veterinary expert, Dr Brian Faulkner, says “Pet owners understandably want their cats and dogs to feel safer, healthier and in a better mood. But while technology can help us feel secure, no device is infallible. Whether we use technology or not, taking sensible safety precautions, and establishing positive health routines, can improve our pet interactions and give us extra peace of mind.”

What technology do pet owners want to see in the future?

Looking ahead, pet owners are most excited about technologies that could protect their pets’ health and safety. 39% want more advanced health monitoring tools for early disease detection, and 38% are seeking more advanced security and anti‑theft tracking features in response to ongoing concerns about pet theft.

Pet owners in the West Midlands (47%) and Scotland (44%) were most likely to express interest in advanced health monitoring. While East Midland pet owners (45%) showed the highest interest in improved pet security. For health monitoring, 40% of Gen Z and Millennials (41%) want advanced health monitoring, compared with 38% of Gen X and 25% of Baby Boomers.

Dr Brian Faulkner says “In our busy lives, technology can enhance and simplify our daily pet routine. But there’s no substitute for the everyday warmth and affection of our pet encounters.”

“Ultimately, pet technology should help us get closer, not further apart, from our beloved cats and dogs.”

To protect the things that really count, explore Petplan’s pet insurance for that added certainty you and your pet deserve.