UK cat and dog owners are hoping to make 2026 the happiest year yet for their pets by embracing light-hearted New Year’s resolutions. This is according to new research from Purina PRO PLAN, part of Nestlé Purina PetCare Europe, which found almost half (49%) of UK dog and cat owners are making New Year’s resolutions for their pets.

The survey, part of Purina PRO PLAN’s ongoing ‘Like a PRO’ campaign, revealed owners are mirroring their own resolutions with their pets. This reflects a growing trend toward treating pets as members of the family, with nearly two thirds (64%) pledging to prioritise their furry friends’ health and wellbeing more in 2026.

When asked about which 2026 pet trends they would consider trying, more than a quarter (28%) are planning pet-friendly holidays while a fifth (20%) are looking for more paw-friendly restaurants and are planning pet birthday parties (19%).

The survey also found that nearly half (47%) of pet owners have committed to improving their pets’ diets with higher-quality nutrition, while 43% aim to ramp up their pets’ exercise routines in 2026. This aligns with Purina PRO PLAN's commitment to provide high-quality pet food, developed by a team of Purina nutritionists and vets, to help dogs and cats lead active, healthy and long lives.

For some, this focus on wellbeing means more indoor bonding during the colder months, with 30% of owners committing to interactive play sessions indoors. In contrast, 28% are looking to explore the great outdoors, planning pet-friendly hikes and outdoor adventures.

Owners are also turning to technology to support their pet-parenting goals, with 21% planning to embrace health-tracking smart collars to monitor their pets’ wellbeing – mirroring the way many owners use wearable tech to track their own health and fitness.

UK pet owner’s biggest wish for 2026 is a heartfelt one, with 32% hoping their furry friend could live forever.  More than two fifths (42%) of owners are focused on spending more time bonding one on one with their furry companions in the year ahead.

The survey is the latest milestone in Purina PRO PLAN’s ‘Like a PRO’ campaign starring a professional squad of tennis players and their pets, including tennis legend Andy Murray and his adorable puppy, Bonnie. Just as top tennis players give it their all on the court, PRO PLAN is encouraging pet owners to do the same for their four-legged family members.

Andy Murray said: “We’ve made a few New Year’s resolutions this year, and Bonnie has been included as she’s very much part of the family. We’ve all agreed we’ll be throwing her a birthday party when she turns one this year and the kids will love that.

“Her health and training have been a big focus for us so far and this remains a priority as we kick off 2026, especially as we navigate the tricky teenage phase! Feeding Bonnie Purina PRO PLAN has made such a positive difference in her first year, and it’s reassuring to know it’ll continue to support her long-team health and wellbeing, helping us to achieve our goals in the year ahead.”

Harriet Morley, Specialist Channel Director, Northern Region, PURINA Europe, said: “It comes as no surprise to us that so many pet owners are making New Year’s resolutions for their pets - after all, they’re cherished members of the family. Our findings highlight the growing focus on health and wellbeing, which aligns with the mission of our ‘Like a PRO’ campaign to inspire pet owners to care for their pets like a PRO. We’re proud that Purina PRO PLAN can help turn those resolutions into reality with our range of high-quality pet food.”