According to Groom Arts, UK dog owners spend £10 billion a year on their furry friends. And the average pet owner spends £200 a year on pet clothes! And while you might want to send your cat down a catwalk, you might decide to shop a bit smarter.
But here’s the good news: the best pet purchases are the ones that are actually worth it. They’re the ones that give you peace of mind, save you stress and sometimes even help you communicate with your bestest boy or girl.
By the end of this article, you’ll see how a bit of clever tech can solve the biggest pet‑parent struggles, from separation anxiety to health mysteries, and even unlock some surprisingly wholesome (and hilarious) bonding moments.
The “off‑lead” confidence boost (GPS trackers).
We’ve all had that heart‑stopping moment: your dog bolts after a squirrel, disappears into the trees, and suddenly your otherwise obedient doggy has gone AWOL. You call, you whistle, you panic. This is where GPS trackers like Tractive come in. By clipping onto your pet’s collar, they show you their exact location in real time. It means you can finally relax knowing your doggo is safe, getting live updates every few seconds rather than wondering “where’s he gone now?”. Plus, modern trackers monitor activity and sleep, and are built to survive even the muddiest adventures.
Curing the “office guilt” (smart cameras).
Stuck at your desk wondering if they’re lonely, barking, or eating the sofa again? It’s a classic case of “office guilt.” Two‑way audio cameras – like the popular PETCUBE – are the perfect cure. They let you check in from your phone with full 360° HD video, even at night. The real game‑changer is the two‑way audio, letting you soothe them with your voice (just try not to let your colleagues hear you!). It’s a little safety net that eases the pang of leaving your favourite fluffball behind.
The “lie‑in” generator (automated feeders).
There’s nothing quite like a cold, wet nose pressed to your face at 5am because the breakfast bowl is empty. If you’d prefer a lie‑in, smart feeders like the CATIT Pixi Smart Feeder are a dream come true. You can set precise mealtimes and portions right from your phone, and the device handles the rest. With the ability to store multiple meals and keep food fresh with in-built desiccant pads, you know they’re taken care of whether you’re sleeping in or heading out. It gives you your mornings back while giving your kitty their own personal breakfast buffet. Win‑win!
Ancestry… for Alsatians? (DNA testing).
If humans are obsessed with 23andMe, the UK’s pet‑DNA trend is the animal‑lover equivalent. But it’s not just about being able to say, “He’s 10% wolf, actually.” DNA tests can explain why your rescue dog sleeps 18 hours a day, why your terrier digs like they’re mining gold, or why your spaniel hates the hoover. Beyond the fun, there’s real value here; knowing their breed mix helps you prepare for specific health traits, pick the right diet, and truly understand their behaviour.
The Dr Dolittle dream (AI translation apps).
We’ve always wanted to know what our pets are really thinking. Now, AI apps like MeowTalk or FluentPet are giving it a go. You simply download an app, record your cat’s miaow, and see if the AI translates it as “I love you” or the more likely “Feed me, peasant.” Is it 100% scientific? Not yet. Is it an adorable and hilarious way to bond with your pet on a Sunday afternoon? Absolutely.
Wrap‑up: Tech that transforms pet life.
A little tech goes a long way:
- GPS trackers help you keep tabs on your hyperactive hound so outdoor adventures feel safer.
- Smart cameras let you check in with your fluffy friends, so you can concentrate on work without the worry.
- Automated feeders protect your precious lie‑ins.
- DNA tests help you understand who your pet really is.
- AI translation apps are currently just a lot of fun but may one day unlock your pet’s inner world.
What pet tech have you tried out? And have you tried a pet “translation” app yet? Did it work or was it complete nonsense? Share your funniest results below!
