The global pet food market size reached approximately USD 118.38 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.80% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of around USD 189.19 Billion by 2034.
Pet food is defined as any commercial feed that is prepared and distributed for consumption by pets. It is usually specific to the type of animals such as dog food, cat food, etc. as well as the leftovers from the human industry which may also be used in the product through a process called rendering. The formulation of pet food varies depending on the type of animal it is intended for and can include a range of ingredients like meat, grains, cereals, vitamins, and minerals.
The pet food market is witnessing a healthy growth due to increasing pet ownership worldwide and increasing focus on providing pets with high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs and supports healthy growth. Another crucial factor includes the increasing consumer concern towards pet health, which has led to increased consumer spending on nutritious pet food products. Pet owners increasingly treat their pets as family members and are willing to spend more on good quality and nutritious pet food products that promise enhanced health benefits and are similar to human food in terms of quality and ingredients.
The players in the pet food market are increasingly focusing on improving their production capacity to meet rising demands. In February 2024, Riverlands Foods Limited introduced a new, advanced canning facility in Canterbury, designed to produce a remarkable 30 million cans of premium cat and dog food annually. The establishment of this state-of-the-art facility represents a significant stride for Riverlands Foods Limited, positioning the company at the forefront of pet food production.
The demand for cat food in the pet food market is also substantial as cats are the second most popular pets worldwide. Their independent nature and suitability for indoor living make them a preferred choice for people living in urban and smaller living spaces. An increase in cat ownership naturally drives the demand for cat food. Cat owners are becoming more knowledgeable about their pets' dietary needs and the impact of diet on health and longevity, which has led to a growing demand for cat food that addresses specific health issues, such as hairball control, weight management, urinary health, and food allergies.
Dry pet food continues its steady growth in the pet food market as it is easier to store and has a longer shelf-life
Dry pet food is expected to occupy a sizable pet food market share due to its ease and convenience as it does not require freezing or refrigeration and requires pets to chew, improving their dental health. Compared to wet or fresh pet food options, dry food is generally more economical, offering a lower cost per serving and this cost-effectiveness is a key factor for pet owners who are mindful of their budget but still want to provide quality nutrition for their pets. The dry pet food market also offers a wide range of products tailored to specific dietary needs and preferences, such as grain-free, high-protein, breed-specific, life-stage specific (puppy, adult, senior), and formulas designed for pets with certain health conditions.
Meanwhile, wet and canned pet foods are projected to witness steady demand as they are considered healthier for pets and prevent the risk of dehydration as they contain liquids. These pet foods are generally more flavourful and have a richer scent compared to dry food which makes them highly palatable and appealing, especially for picky eaters or pets with decreased appetite due to illness or ageing.
Nestlé S.A.
It is the world's largest food and beverage company, operating in numerous countries around the globe. Its vast portfolio includes leading global brands across various categories, including pet foods.
Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.
It is a well-known manufacturer of pet nutrition products. Its science-based therapeutic pet foods are often recommended by veterinarians for specific health conditions.
Other players in the market include General Mills Inc., Diamond Pet Foods, Simmons Foods, Inc., Alphia, Inc., Unicharm Corporation, Thai Union Group PCL, and Tiernahrung Deuerer GmbH, among others.
The market players are investing in the establishment of pet food production plants. Such investments underscore their strategic move to tap into the growing market worldwide. By setting up new facilities, the market players aim to cater to the increasing demand for quality pet food, driven by the rising pet ownership and heightened awareness among pet owners about the nutritional needs of their pets.
The demand for pet food in Europe is shaped by various factors, reflecting the continent's diverse consumer preferences, economic conditions, and cultural attitudes towards pet ownership and care. Europe has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world as countries like Russia, Germany, the UK, and France have significant populations of pets, especially cats and dogs, which directly contribute to the demand for pet food. Europe also has strict regulations regarding pet food production and labelling, governed by entities like the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). Consumers in Europe are highly conscious of these standards and often seek products that are clearly labelled, traceable, and compliant with safety regulations.
Pet food is defined as any commercial feed that is prepared and distributed for consumption by pets. It is usually specific to the type of animals such as dog food, cat food, etc. as well as the leftovers from the human industry which may also be used in the product through a process called rendering. The formulation of pet food varies depending on the type of animal it is intended for and can include a range of ingredients like meat, grains, cereals, vitamins, and minerals.
The pet food market is witnessing a healthy growth due to increasing pet ownership worldwide and increasing focus on providing pets with high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs and supports healthy growth. Another crucial factor includes the increasing consumer concern towards pet health, which has led to increased consumer spending on nutritious pet food products. Pet owners increasingly treat their pets as family members and are willing to spend more on good quality and nutritious pet food products that promise enhanced health benefits and are similar to human food in terms of quality and ingredients.
Key Trends and Developments
Increasing shift to organic and nutritious pet food products; popularity of personalised pet food solutions; rising availability of pet food products online; and the growth of animal welfare organisations are the major trends in the pet food market.Feb 2024
Riverlands Foods Limited: Introduced a new, advanced canning facility in Canterbury, designed to produce 30 million cans of premium cat and dog food annually.Feb 2024
Pet Choice: Allocated USD 500,000 to a comprehensive multi-channel marketing initiative aimed at boosting recognition of its dog and cat food line, Webbox Naturals.Jan 2024
VAFO Group: The group, renowned for producing high-end pet foods in Europe, announced the acquisition of Dagsmark Petfood, a company based in Finland.Sep 2023
The Allana Group: Announced to commit INR 200 crore to establish a pet food manufacturing plant in India to cater to the increasing demand for quality pet food driven by rising pet ownership.Shift towards organic and nutritious pet food products
There is an increased demand for nutritious and organic pet food products due to consumer awareness about the importance of a healthy diet in pet’s growth.Rising popularity of personalised pet food solutions
The manufacturers are developing products tailored to the breed, age, and size of different types of animals in smaller, single-serve, disposable containers.Increased availability of pet food products online
Rise in online shopping for pet food offers convenience, a wider product selection, and often, competitive pricing.Growth of animal welfare organisations
The expansion of animal welfare organisations like PETA and rising initiatives by various organisations and governments to enhance animal health is boosting the market growth.Pet Food Market Trends
A prominent trend is the rising demand for natural and organic pet food products. As people become more conscious of their own dietary choices and the impact of food on health, this awareness extends to their pets' diets. Consumers are seeking pet food options that are free from artificial additives, preservatives, colours, and flavours, believing that organic foods can enhance their pets' health, vitality, and lifespan. As people adopt diets focusing on natural, organic, and minimally processed foods for themselves, they also seek similar options for their pets, due to their perceived benefits.The players in the pet food market are increasingly focusing on improving their production capacity to meet rising demands. In February 2024, Riverlands Foods Limited introduced a new, advanced canning facility in Canterbury, designed to produce a remarkable 30 million cans of premium cat and dog food annually. The establishment of this state-of-the-art facility represents a significant stride for Riverlands Foods Limited, positioning the company at the forefront of pet food production.
Market Segmentation
“Pet Food Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:Market Breakup by Pet Type
- Dog Food
- Cat Food
- Others
Market Breakup by Product Type
- Dry Pet Food
- Wet and Canned Pet Food
- Snacks and Treats
Market Breakup by Pricing Type
- Mass Products
- Premium Products
Market Breakup by Ingredient Type
- Animal Derived
- Plant Derived
Market Breakup by Distribution Channel
- Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- Specialty Stores
- Online Stores
- Others
Market Breakup by Region
- North America
- Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
Dog food maintains its dominance in the market due to the rising dog ownership worldwide
The pet food market benefits from the increasing sales of dog food products due to a surge in dog ownership globally. Dogs are one of the most popular pets globally and an increase in dog ownership directly translates to a higher demand for dog food. Factors such as a rise in nuclear families, a growing elderly population seeking companionship, and the emotional support provided by dogs contribute to this trend. Dog owners are increasingly seeking high-quality, premium dog food options which include organic, natural, and specially formulated diets catering to the specific needs of their pets, such as breed-specific formulas, age-specific diets (puppy, adult, senior), and food for medical conditions.The demand for cat food in the pet food market is also substantial as cats are the second most popular pets worldwide. Their independent nature and suitability for indoor living make them a preferred choice for people living in urban and smaller living spaces. An increase in cat ownership naturally drives the demand for cat food. Cat owners are becoming more knowledgeable about their pets' dietary needs and the impact of diet on health and longevity, which has led to a growing demand for cat food that addresses specific health issues, such as hairball control, weight management, urinary health, and food allergies.
Dry pet food continues its steady growth in the pet food market as it is easier to store and has a longer shelf-life
Dry pet food is expected to occupy a sizable pet food market share due to its ease and convenience as it does not require freezing or refrigeration and requires pets to chew, improving their dental health. Compared to wet or fresh pet food options, dry food is generally more economical, offering a lower cost per serving and this cost-effectiveness is a key factor for pet owners who are mindful of their budget but still want to provide quality nutrition for their pets. The dry pet food market also offers a wide range of products tailored to specific dietary needs and preferences, such as grain-free, high-protein, breed-specific, life-stage specific (puppy, adult, senior), and formulas designed for pets with certain health conditions.
Meanwhile, wet and canned pet foods are projected to witness steady demand as they are considered healthier for pets and prevent the risk of dehydration as they contain liquids. These pet foods are generally more flavourful and have a richer scent compared to dry food which makes them highly palatable and appealing, especially for picky eaters or pets with decreased appetite due to illness or ageing.
Competitive Landscape
The market players are increasingly producing organic pet food products due to the rising trend of health and wellness which can provide them with a competitive edge in the market.Mars, Incorporated
The company is involved in the production of confectionery, pet food, and other food items. It is known for its diverse portfolio, including famous confectionery brands like M&M's, Snickers, and Twix.Nestlé S.A.
It is the world's largest food and beverage company, operating in numerous countries around the globe. Its vast portfolio includes leading global brands across various categories, including pet foods.
Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.
It is a well-known manufacturer of pet nutrition products. Its science-based therapeutic pet foods are often recommended by veterinarians for specific health conditions.
The J.M. Smucker Company
It is known for its wide range of pet foods. Its product portfolio includes pet foods, snacks, and coffee, among others.Other players in the market include General Mills Inc., Diamond Pet Foods, Simmons Foods, Inc., Alphia, Inc., Unicharm Corporation, Thai Union Group PCL, and Tiernahrung Deuerer GmbH, among others.
The market players are investing in the establishment of pet food production plants. Such investments underscore their strategic move to tap into the growing market worldwide. By setting up new facilities, the market players aim to cater to the increasing demand for quality pet food, driven by the rising pet ownership and heightened awareness among pet owners about the nutritional needs of their pets.
Pet Food Market Analysis by Region
North America dominates the market, with the US currently representing a significant market in the region. Growing consumer knowledge about the positive effects on pet health, the growing tendency of humanising pets and the rising millennial trend of pet adoption are the main factors driving the pet food market growth in North America. Additionally, as local producers increase their presence in the domestic market, products that are ethically and locally sourced, are expected to witness increased acceptance, contributing to the pet food market expansion.The demand for pet food in Europe is shaped by various factors, reflecting the continent's diverse consumer preferences, economic conditions, and cultural attitudes towards pet ownership and care. Europe has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world as countries like Russia, Germany, the UK, and France have significant populations of pets, especially cats and dogs, which directly contribute to the demand for pet food. Europe also has strict regulations regarding pet food production and labelling, governed by entities like the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). Consumers in Europe are highly conscious of these standards and often seek products that are clearly labelled, traceable, and compliant with safety regulations.
Table of Contents
1 Executive Summary
2 Market Overview and Stakeholder Insights
3 Economic Summary
4 Country Risk Profiles
5 Global Pet Food Market Analysis
6 North America Pet Food Market Analysis
7 Europe Pet Food Market Analysis
8 Asia-Pacific Pet Food Market Analysis
9 Latin America Pet Food Market Analysis
10 Middle East and Africa Pet Food Market Analysis
11 Market Dynamics
13 Trade Analysis (HS Code- 239)
14 Price Analysis
15 Manufacturing Process
16 Competitive Landscape
Companies Mentioned
The key companies featured in this Pet Food market report include:- Mars, Incorporated
- Nestlé S.A.
- Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- The J.M. Smucker Company
- General Mills Inc.
- Diamond Pet Foods
- Simmons Foods, Inc.
- Alphia, Inc.
- Unicharm Corporation
- Thai Union Group PCL
- Tiernahrung Deuerer GmbH
Table Information
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| No. of Pages | 176 |
| Published | August 2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2025 - 2034 |
| Estimated Market Value ( USD | $ 118.38 Billion |
| Forecasted Market Value ( USD | $ 189.19 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate | 4.8% |
| Regions Covered | Global |
| No. of Companies Mentioned | 12 |
