Study on the physical activity of pets
Do pet owners really know how active their pets are?
Do pet owners really know how active their pets are?
Are our pets as active as we think? Thanks to the Weenect application, pet owners have precise data on their pet's movements and exercise levels. But does this information really correspond to their perception? This survey report aims to answer this question.
This report is based on a dual analysis. A survey was conducted among 525 Weenect customers in France, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom to assess their perception of their pet's physical activity. In parallel, data from the Activity function of the application was analyzed for 180 dogs and cats equipped with a tracker, selected from the most active users.
Discover the detailed results of our study through key insights illustrated with graphs.
The survey reveals that 94.5% of pet owners believe they have an accurate understanding of their pet’s activity level. Whether it’s distance traveled, the number of steps taken, or time spent moving, the vast majority of respondents feel confident in their assessment. This confidence often stems from daily observation and established habits, especially for dog owners who take their pets for regular walks.
When comparing perception with Weenect’s activity tracking data, 37.7% of owners notice a discrepancy between what they assumed and reality. Among them, 25.4% discover their pet is more active than expected, while 11.9% realize their pet moves less than they thought. These findings highlight that, despite strong confidence, reality can be surprising—encouraging owners to rethink their intuitive understanding of their pet’s activity.
The collected data reveals a significant difference between dogs and cats in terms of physical activity. Dogs travel an average of 5.9 km per day, which is 4.3 times more than cats, who only cover 1.4 km daily. This disparity is explained by their distinct physiological needs: dogs require regular walks, while cats have more autonomous and sporadic activity patterns.
To better understand animal activity, the Weenect application categorizes it into three intensity levels: light, moderate, and intense. Its algorithm adapts to each animal by analyzing its movements, ensuring precise and personalized tracking. Thanks to this classification, data analysis reveals that cats spend an average of 13 hours and 27 minutes per day in light activity, compared to 12 hours and 6 minutes for dogs. However, their moderate activity duration is shorter, with cats engaging in 3 hours and 33 minutes per day, compared to 2 hours and 53 minutes for dogs. Unlike dogs, which accumulate long distances by walking, cats favor shorter movements, interspersed with periods of exploration and intense play.
The survey reveals that 50.7% of respondents would find it interesting to compare their own activity levels with those of their pet.
This suggests that some owners perceive a connection between their lifestyle and their pet’s habits, opening the door for a more interactive approach to activity tracking.
Despite this interest, 69.1% of respondents believe their pet’s activity tracking wouldn’t change their own exercise habits. However, 15.6% think it could motivate them to be more active, and 15.2% believe it would make them more aware of their own physical activity. These results suggest that, while the majority of owners don’t see a direct link, a significant minority might adopt a more active lifestyle thanks to tracking their pet’s movements.
The survey reveals that the issue of pet physical activity is far from trivial for owners. 64% of respondents say they think about it at least occasionally, with 34.48% wondering from time to time about their pet's activity level and 30.10% thinking about it regularly. This finding highlights a genuine interest in their companion's health and well-being, even if it does not always translate into concrete action.
To help owners better monitor their pet's activity, a reminder function could prove valuable. 42.3% of respondents believe an occasional reminder could be useful, while 13.7% consider it a real help in their daily routine. By providing a simple and accessible point of reference, such a tool could reinforce good habits and encourage a more proactive approach to pet well-being.
This study highlights a gap between owners' perception and the reality of their pet's physical activity. Thanks to data from trackers, they can better understand their companion's actual needs and adjust their habits accordingly. More than just an indicator, activity tracking becomes a valuable tool for supporting animal well-being.
Moreover, many owners are already questioning whether their pet gets enough exercise, and a reminder could be a valuable ally in maintaining sufficient activity. The interest in these tools is clear: according to the survey, more than 70% of owners use the tracking feature, confirming a growing need for support. By making data more accessible and offering tailored solutions, Weenect helps owners take better care of their companion’s well-being.
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