GloFish Display from 5D Tropical in the Global Pet Expo Aquatics Section
The U.S. pet industry hit $158 billion in 2025 — and if the energy at Global Pet Expo 2026 in Orlando is any indication, the momentum is not slowing down. The show, held March 24–27, brought together the full spectrum of the pet industry, and as usual it did not disappoint. APPA’s Pete King kicked things off at a press event, highlighting growth driven in large part by a surge in cat ownership and spending by Gen Z and millennials, alongside a stable, enduring commitment to pets overall. Value is the name of the game right now — but we are especially loving this cat trend, and we will have much more on that soon!
The Pet Industry Hits $158 Billion, and the Cat Economy is Just Getting Started
Jason Diaz, President of 5D Tropical, with Lea-Ann Germinder, Editor/Publisher of Goodnewsforpets.com
Time to Revisit Aquatics?
Although I have primarily covered veterinary medicine, I got my start in the pet business, consulting with companies in the import/export business of ornamental fish, so the aquatics section was my first stop. It has always holds a special place for me. It was a great pleasure to see it thriving and to visit with Jason Diaz, President of 5D Tropical. He asked whether Goodnewsforpets.com covers aquatic fish, and honestly, the answer right now is not that much. But what I saw at the show made a strong case for changing that. If you are in the aquatics world and would like to be featured, reach out — we would love to hear from you!
A Thriving Aquatics Section, and A Gap Worth Filling
The Satellai Go Collar on display at Global Pet Expo
AI Comes to the Pet Industry: From Retail Operations to Dog Collars
With our focus on responsible AI, I was especially enthusiastic about how the pet industry is embracing this technology — from back-end product development to retailer operations to consumer-facing products. Rajan Lukose of Cambridge Pet Tech gave a particularly insightful high-level talk, discussing the impact of AI on every industry and the importance of having an expert with experience with all aspects of technology, or in tech industry parlance, “the stack.” He commented that generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT) took even the tech industry by surprise, and that automation is now being deployed with AI much more rapidly, with even tech experts not fully understanding how it works. That said, he feels that those who adapt will not be left behind, but “AI is more like a scientific discovery than an innovation,” he said. The key is to embrace this future.
One expert I sat down with was Taylor Harnois, general manager of ETAILPET, to learn how pet retailers are leveraging AI to better connect with their customers. The platform offers inventory management, automated marketing, and a variety of point-of-sale integrations that can transform how independent retailers compete. On the product side, I checked out the Satellai Collar Go, from Satellai, which bills itself as the pet well-being company. Dog owners can monitor their pet’s activity and vitals and convert that data into AI-powered health insights. The collar also provides GPS tracking, an adjustable light, and comes in a range of colors.
The Cat Economy is Booming
Acai Superfood Mousse from Pawbiopet
Speaking of the growth in the cat ownership market, there were plenty of cat products introduced at Global Pet Expo, but what caught my eye was a tasty-looking new treat for cats from Pawbiopet.com, Acai Superfood Pet Mousse. Created for those pickiest of kitties, the company claims the mousse is an antioxidant, immune-boosting, and improves a cat’s coat and skin.
New Cat Products Worth Watching
Another great new product for people who love cats but are allergic to them is Pacagen, a cat-allergen-neutralizing spray. It was developed by biochemist Gary Zhao for his wife, who loves cats. Recognizing the number one reason that cat owners give up their cats due to allergies, Zhao found a way to neutralize up to 98% of cat allergens from cats’ saliva with llama proteins. According to the company, the spray “targets and binds to allergens before they enter your body with a gentle, non-invasive approach”. The product has been reviewed and recommended by veterinarians and allergists.
Pacagen: A Breakthrough for Cat Lovers Who Suffer From Allergens
A Veterinarian’s Innovation: Barkly’s Safe Leash
Drew Everson and her partner Dr. Holly Jordan show off the Barkly Pet Leash and Safety Device
Although it was a pet products show, I didn’t stray too far from veterinary medicine by visiting with Holly Jordan, DVM, and her partner, Drew Evenson in the start-up showcase for their new product, Barkly, a personal safety device that features a panic button, an alarm, and a strobe light that is built into every leash. The beautiful lilac color was certainly eye-catching, but more importantly, I learned how this combination of leash and safety devices can serve as a protective measure for any dog lover. I was also told that new colors would be forthcoming.
Barkly: Where Veterinary Innovation Meets Dog Walking
Trusted Brand News and More Coming: Purina, Chuck-It and More from Pets + People
Petmate’s Chuck-it Brand Dog Toys in A New Color Palette
There are always some “tried and true” brands I love to visit, and I’ll be covering them in our next update. One is Purina; another is the Chuck-It brand, which has completely redesigned the line’s look with bright white designs and new technology. I also look forward to sharing more news about other new pet products featuring the Milkbone, JIF, Dole, and Burt’s Bees brands from our friends at Pets + People.
Trusted Brands With Fresh New Looks
With the industry projected to reach $165 billion in 2026, there has never been a more exciting time to cover it. From AI-powered collars to allergen-neutralizing sprays to safety-integrated leashes, the innovation at Global Pet Expo 2026 reflects just how deeply we love our pets — and how determined the industry is to serve that bond. Stay tuned for more coverage of the brands and products that caught our eye in Orlando.
For Global Pet Expo’s New Product Awards Announcement, click here.
Lea-Ann Germinder
Lea-Ann Germinder, APR, Fellow PRSA, is Founder and President of Germinder + Associates and Editor/Publisher of Goodnewsforpets.com, now in its 26th year of covering the veterinary and pet industry.
What were the key trends at Global Pet Expo 2026?
Key trends included the growing role of artificial intelligence in pet care, increased innovation in cat products, and a strong focus on health and wellness solutions for pets.
How is AI being used in the pet industry?
AI is being used to improve product development, personalize pet care, and enhance how companies communicate with pet owners through smarter tools and data-driven insights.
Why are cats becoming more important in the pet market?
Cats are driving growth due to changing lifestyles, urban living trends, and increased demand for specialized products tailored to feline health and behavior.
What types of new pet products stood out at the show?
Products that solved everyday problems for pet owners, particularly those focused on health, convenience, and functionality, were among the most notable innovations.
