Gen Z Is Embracing an Unexpected Pet Trend and It's Growing Fast
Dogs and cats still dominate the pet world, but younger pet owners are quietly helping another category surge in popularity. While many people picture reptiles as niche pets kept by hobbyists with elaborate setups, new research suggests that image is changing quickly. A growing number of younger Americans are choosing snakes, turtles, tortoises and other reptiles as companions, helping fuel one of the fastest-growing corners of the pet industry.
The shift says as much about changing lifestyles as it does about pets themselves. Today's younger consumers often look for hobbies that blend creativity, self-expression and personalization. According to new data from the American Pet Products Association (APPA), Gen Z is increasingly finding that outlet through reptile ownership. At the same time, Millennials continue to drive growth in fishkeeping, investing in larger aquariums, custom setups and high-tech equipment. Together, the two generations are reshaping what pet ownership looks like and creating new opportunities for retailers and brands that understand how their preferences differ.
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New Research Shows Younger Pet Owners Are Expanding Beyond Dogs and Cats
According to APPA's 2025 Fish & Reptile Report, Gen Z now accounts for 33% of all reptile owners, representing a 27% increase since 2023. The report found that reptiles have moved well beyond their traditional niche status and are increasingly viewed as pets that align with individuality, creativity and self-expression.
The trend is being fueled in part by social media, where reptile care tutorials, rescue stories and terrarium design videos have introduced younger audiences to the hobby. APPA notes that many Gen Z owners view terrariums as living art projects that reflect personal style while providing a responsible home for their animals.
Turtles and tortoises remain the most commonly owned reptiles, appearing in 43% of reptile-owning households. Snake ownership is also growing rapidly, increasing 22% year over year, according to the report.
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Meanwhile, Millennials continue to dominate the aquarium space. APPA found that Millennials represent 46% of saltwater fish owners and 38% of freshwater fish owners. Many are investing in larger aquariums, advanced lighting systems and customized habitats that blend into modern home design.
One of the more interesting findings is that both generations rely heavily on digital discovery while still valuing in-person expertise. Gen Z reptile owners frequently seek care information online, while many fish owners continue to rely on specialty retailers for guidance about equipment, water quality and animal care.
The report highlights a broader trend happening throughout the pet industry. Pet ownership is becoming increasingly tied to lifestyle and identity. Whether someone is building a carefully designed reef tank or creating a custom reptile habitat, the experience goes far beyond simply owning an animal.
It's a reminder that pet trends are constantly evolving. Just as pet parents continue to pay attention to safety issues, such as the recent report on the cities where dog attacks on mail carriers are most common, they're also embracing new ways to connect with animals and hobbies that fit their lives.
And with major pet events expanding their reach through streaming and digital platforms, including the upcoming Westminster Dog Show's move to Netflix, it's becoming easier than ever for consumers to discover new species, new interests and new corners of the pet world.
If APPA's latest findings are any indication, reptiles may no longer be considered the unexpected choice for much longer.
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This story was originally published May 31, 2026 at 5:40 PM.