Investing.com - Online pet retailer Chewy (NYSE:CHWY) has gained popularity among pet owners over the past year, according to a new consumer survey released by RBC Capital Markets on Monday. The survey revealed that approximately 48% of pet owners shopped at Chewy in the last 12 months, representing an increase from the previous year’s results. Chewy ranked as the third most popular retailer among pet owners, behind Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) at 74% and Walmart (NYSE:WMT) at 51%. RBC’s data showed that about 88% of pet owners currently purchase pet supplies online, consistent with last year’s findings. Within the online shopping segment, Chewy maintained its position as the second most popular website at 54%, trailing only Amazon at 82%. The survey indicated that approximately 48% of respondents increased their spending on pet food and treats over the past three months, slightly down from 52% in last year’s survey. RBC noted that high-income consumers are increasing their spending in the pet category, while middle and low-income consumers are showing more cautious behavior. Overall pet ownership among survey participants stood at approximately 81%, a slight decrease from 84% in the previous year’s survey. However, RBC stated that its channel research points to stable pet household formation, suggesting the firm is "not overly concerned about the reversal in trend." This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.