As the social media landscape evolves, a new breed of influencers is emerging: pets, primarily dogs and cats, are capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. In India, the pet influencer phenomenon is growing rapidly, with over 1,200 active pet accounts boasting more than 1,000 followers each. These accounts often feature adorable pets that average 12,000 likes and over 130,000 views per post, showcasing their strong engagement potential.
Globally, the trend is already well-established. For example, Doug the Pug, an American pug with over 4 million Instagram followers, has collaborated with brands like Disney and Starbucks, turning his quirky personality into a marketing powerhouse. Similarly, Nala Cat, a Siamese-tabby mix from the U.S. with 4.5 million followers, has been a face for pet food brands and campaigns promoting animal welfare. These success stories highlight the massive potential of pet influencers.
In India, while the market is still developing, some accounts like Oscar, a golden retriever with 249,000 followers, have gained popularity through engaging content, especially during the pandemic. However, the local market faces challenges such as the unpredictability of pets during shoots and the high costs of professional production equipment. Despite this, brands are increasingly recognizing the authenticity and community trust that pet influencers bring to the table.
Aditya Gurwara, co-founder of Qoruz, notes that pet influencers have transitioned from simple photo-sharing accounts to influential marketing tools. Although still lagging behind their human counterparts in earnings and reach, the growing interest in pet influencers signals a promising future, particularly as brands continue to adapt their strategies to include these unique and engaging personalities.