Consumers appear to be accepting these price increases in spite of declining real disposable income and falling consumer confidence. Due to deepening anthropomorphism, pet owners are becoming even more brand loyal. Many owners hold the view that their pets can tell the difference between different products and they are therefore reluctant to switch brands in case it upsets their pets’ digestive systems.

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In an atomized society, the growing amount of time and money we collectively spend on pets is an indication of how much we thirst for community, leaning on animals for support once provided by other humans.

Pet Food Proves Recession-Proof, Thanks to Anthropomorphism | Business Pundit.