The 10 U.S. States Most Likely to Spoil Their Pets, According to New Data
A new analysis reveals where dogs and cats are getting the most toys, treats, and holiday gifts this year.
If you’ve ever wrapped a Christmas present for your dog or picked up a “just because” toy for your cat, you’re in good company. A new nationwide analysis ranked all 50 states by how likely residents are to buy gifts for their pets — and some states are far more generous than others.
Researchers evaluated spending patterns, toy and treat trends, and searches for pet-specific gifts to create a simple 0–8 Pet Gift Likelihood Score. Higher numbers mean one thing: pets in that state are getting spoiled.
Let’s count down the top 10.
10. New Jersey — Score: 5.86
New Jersey lands in the top 10 thanks to high pet spending and strong gifting habits, especially for cats. Holiday accessories and treats do extremely well here.
9. Texas — Score: 6.04
Treats, toys, enrichment items — Texans buy it all. Consistent spending across categories keeps the Lone Star State inside the top tier.
8. Massachusetts — Score: 6.18
Massachusetts combines high household pet spending with strong cat-gift interest. Even with lower dog-gift numbers, they easily clear the top 10.
7. Ohio — Score: 6.69
Ohio quietly performs well on both toy and treat activity, especially for cats. Enrichment spending is steady, nudging them ahead of larger states.
6. Virginia — Score: 6.70
Virginia ranks strongly across toys, treats, and gift-specific purchases. It’s one of the most well-rounded pet-spoiling states in the country.
5. Illinois — Score: 6.71
Illinois pet parents love a treat moment. Strong enthusiasm for both dog and cat gifts pushes the state into the top five.
4. Pennsylvania — Score: 6.77
Pennsylvania’s gifting culture peaks around holidays — think Christmas toys, birthday treats, and seasonal accessories. That consistent seasonal spending earns them a high spot.
3. Washington — Score: 6.84
Washington pet owners love practical and fun enrichment items, from eco-friendly treats to outdoor gear. Pets here stay stimulated and stylish.
2. New York — Score: 7.46
New Yorkers treat their pets like tiny roommates with Amazon wishlists. Strong spending and sky-high interest in accessories keep New York near the top.
1. California — Score: 7.84
California takes the #1 spot by a wide margin. High household spending, pet-friendly cities, and endless boutique retailers make it the undisputed capital of pet gifting. If there’s a trendy treat or a designer dog hoodie, someone in California bought it first.
Why These States Lead
Pet nutritionist Dana Harris says it makes sense:
“Pet owners in California and New York treat pets as full family members. They invest in toys, treats, and seasonal gifts. Urban areas drive this behavior, with access to specialty retailers and online stores.”
Disposable income + specialty pet shops + strong holiday culture = extremely spoiled pets.
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