In an era when technology is not only created for convenience but also steps in to care for the "human mind," recent medical research confirms that "pet robots" or Pet Companion Robots are no longer mere high-tech toys. They are becoming highly effective non-drug therapeutic tools for elderly care and specialized children, emerging as a mega-trend driving the global health market today.
The main reason pet robots gain medical acceptance is their ability to provide happiness and reduce loneliness without users bearing caregiving burdens—no need to feed, take to doctors, or worry about pet hair allergies—making them highly suitable for healthcare facilities and nursing homes. The notable medical outcomes are as follows:
Rehabilitation of dementia patients: Research from Sarasota Memorial Hospital in the U.S. (2025–2026) found that elderly dementia patients receiving pet robots showed more stable blood pressure and heart rates, reduced fall risk, shorter hospital stays, and higher chances of returning home compared to those without robots.
Reducing stress in autistic children: A survey at a dental clinic in Sweden found that the Joy for All robotic cat served as a "comforting friend," reducing anxiety in up to 60% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), helping them accept treatment without severe resistance.
A valuable aid for caregivers: Research from Old Dominion University confirms that patients can enjoy the robots independently, allowing caregivers more rest, reducing sedative use, and improving family communication.
These tangible medical results have propelled the pet robot industry to rapid growth. A report by Spherical Insights states the market was valued at $480 million in 2025 and is projected to soar to $1.24 billion by 2035, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.9%.
Analyzing market share preferences, the Connected/Smart segment currently holds the largest share at 61.0%, as it supports remote health monitoring and AI interaction. The Robotic Pets segment holds 54.0%, and premium products hold 47.0%, reflecting consumer willingness to pay for realistic technology and medical standards. The top five fastest-growing markets are:
This market is driven by about 10–12 technology companies and specialists. Market leader Sony holds about 14.0% share with deep AI expertise linked to health networks. Noteworthy innovators include Tombot, ranked fourth, focusing on ultra-realistic medical research robots, and Joy For All, ranked fifth, known for user-friendly therapeutic robots.
In Thailand, this trend is beginning to gain recognition and positive reception. Kongkiat Sakuljan, Managing Director of Suanyai House Co., Ltd., the first importer of the Joy for All brand in Asia, revealed: “Currently, nursing homes, elderly care centers, and medical personnel in Thailand are increasingly incorporating pet robots into patient care.”
“When users experience them firsthand, they immediately understand these robots as emotional aids that genuinely reduce loneliness. There is also a growing trend to expand their use to children undergoing long-term hospital treatment, such as cancer patients, to alleviate loneliness and provide warmth during difficult times.”
Ultimately, pet robots are not designed to replace living beings but to fill gaps in mental health care. They represent future innovation that combines advanced technology with empathy to genuinely enhance quality of life for people of all ages.