Pet Food Market – Top Global Industry Trends in 2026

The global pet food market is entering a decade of strong expansion, driven by rising pet humanization, premium dietary preferences, and the rapid transition toward tailored nutrition. Valued at USD 132.4 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 247.7 billion by 2035 at a CAGR of 6.5%, the market is shifting toward high-quality, functional, and personalized formulations that meet pet-specific needs across life stages and breeds.

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Global Market Snapshot

Growing pet ownership, premium nutrition adoption, and the humanization of pets are strengthening market performance worldwide. In 2025, the industry accounted for:

  • 3.6% of the USD 72 billion animal nutrition market
  • 1.73% of the USD 150 billion pet care market
  • 0.072% of the USD 3.6 trillion packaged food market
  • 0.026% of the USD 10 trillion global consumer goods market

Conventional pet food leads with a 70% share, while dog food remains dominant with 60% market share. Western Europe continues to be the strongest regional performer, with the UK expanding at 6.8% CAGR through 2035.

Regulatory Landscape

Pet food manufacturers operate under stringent global regulations to ensure safety and transparency.

  • In the U.S., the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine oversees ingredient approvals and labeling.
  • In Europe, EFSA and FEDIAF impose rigorous safety and formulation standards.
  • Japan enforces strict labeling and ingredient safety rules under the Ministry of Agriculture.

These regulatory measures reinforce consumer trust and drive manufacturers to adopt higher-quality sourcing and hygienic processing practices.

Market Segmentation Highlights

By Product Type: Kibble/dry, wet, dehydrated, freeze-dried (raw and cooked), raw, frozen, powder, treats & chews
By Source: Animal-derived, plant-derived, insect-derived
By Animal Type: Dogs, cats, birds, small animals
By Nature: Organic, monoprotein, conventional
By Region: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, MEA, and others

Key Segment Insights

Kibble/Dry Leads with 42.5% Market Share

Kibble remains the top-selling product category due to affordability, convenience, and compatibility with automated feeding systems.

  • Crunchy texture supports dental health
  • Easy storage and long shelf life
  • Continuous innovation in coatings and palatability

Animal-Derived Sources Lead with 22.7% Share

High digestibility and protein content make animal-derived ingredients the preferred source for balanced nutrition.

  • Chicken and fish dominate mainstream formulations
  • Beef, lamb, and turkey fuel premium and specialty diets
  • Fish proteins support skin and coat health

Dog Segment Holds Over 60% Market Share

The dominance stems from high global dog ownership and demand for breed-, age-, and condition-specific diets.

  • Rapid growth in senior dog diets
  • Premium treats for mobility, dental care, and immunity
  • Increasing traction for breed-targeted formulations

Conventional Products Hold 70% Share

Affordability, broad availability, and balanced nutritional profiles keep conventional pet food in the lead. Emerging demand in monoprotein and organic diets remains niche but expanding gradually.

Country-Level Insights

United Kingdom (6.8% CAGR): Boosted by premiumization, e-commerce growth, and breed-specific diets.
France (6.6% CAGR): Strong momentum for functional treats and eco-friendly formulations.
Germany (6.4% CAGR): Rising demand for monoprotein, hypoallergenic, and organic options.
United States (6.2% CAGR): Increased demand for natural, organic, and condition-targeted diets.
Japan (6.1% CAGR): High preference for small-breed tailored nutrition and senior-specific formulas.

Competitive Landscape

The market is moderately consolidated, with leading contributors including Mars Petcare, Nestlé Purina PetCare, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Blue Buffalo, and Cargill. These companies dominate through:

  • Broad product portfolios
  • Investments in functional and personalized nutrition
  • Innovations in sustainable protein alternatives (insect- and plant-based)

R&D investment remains strong as brands explore probiotic-infused diets, omega-rich formulations, and lab-grown meat innovations.

Recent Industry Developments

  • February 2025: Pets at Home launches “Chick Bites,” dog treats made from lab-grown chicken, marking a milestone in sustainable pet food.
  • February 2023: Mars Petcare completes its acquisition of Champion Petfoods, strengthening its premium brand offerings.

About Future Market Insights (FMI)

Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, recipient of the Stevie Award, and a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) offers profound insights into the driving factors that are boosting demand in the market. FMI stands as the leading global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, consulting, and events for the Packaging, Food and Beverage, Consumer Technology, Healthcare, Industrial, and Chemicals markets. With a vast team of over 400 analysts worldwide, FMI provides global, regional, and local expertise on diverse domains and industry trends across more than 110 countries.

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About the Author

Nikhil Kaitwade

Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights, Inc. has over a decade of experience in market research and business consulting. He has successfully delivered 1500+ client assignments, predominantly in Automotive, Chemicals, Industrial Equipment, Oil & Gas, and Service industries.
His core competency circles around developing research methodology, creating a unique analysis framework, statistical data models for pricing analysis, competition mapping, and market feasibility analysis. His expertise also extends wide and beyond analysis, advising clients on identifying growth potential in established and niche market segments, investment/divestment decisions, and market entry decision-making.
Nikhil holds an MBA degree in Marketing and IT and a Graduate in Mechanical Engineering. Nikhil has authored several publications and quoted in journals like EMS Now, EPR Magazine, and EE Times.

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