India Pet food Market Assessment, By Pet Type, By Food Type, By Life Stage, By Flavour, By Food Preference, By Packaging Type, By Price Range, By End-user, By Distribution Channel, By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, FY2017-FY2031F

India pet food market is projected to witness a CAGR of 15.6% during the forecast period FY2024-FY2031, growing from USD 551.5 million in FY2023 to USD 1758.77 million in FY2031. The market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, fueled by a rising awareness of pet health and nutrition among pet owners.

As more Indians adopt and embrace pets as family members, the demand for high-quality and specialized pet food has increased. Various products, including dry kibble, wet food, treats, and specialized diets suitable for specific health needs characterize the market.

The expansion of the pet food industry in India is due to the urbanization and the changing lifestyles. As urban populations increase, pet ownership becomes increasingly prevalent, and pet owners are increasingly seeking convenient and nutritious options for their furry companions. This has led to the establishment of both international and domestic pet food brands in the Indian market, offering a wide range of choices to consumers.

The emphasis on health and wellness for pets is a major trend, with pet owners becoming more aware of the ingredients in their pet's food. Brands are introducing premium and organic products, often highlighting the use of natural ingredients, and avoiding artificial additives. Veterinarian-recommended and prescription-based diets are becoming increasingly popular as pet owners become more conscious of addressing specific health concerns in their pets through nutrition.

E-commerce has been a major factor in the distribution and accessibility of pet food across the country. Online platforms provide a convenient way for pet owners to explore and purchase various pet food products, making it easier to cater to their pets' specific dietary requirements and preferences.

However, despite the significant obstacles, the challenges persist in terms of affordability and awareness, particularly in rural areas. The market is expected to continue its growth, fueled by the evolving attitudes of pet owners, the increasing pet population, and a growing focus on pet health and nutrition. As the industry matures, it is likely to witness further innovation and diversification, providing pet owners with even more options to ensure the well-being of their beloved pets.

In October 2023, the flagship brand of Spain-based Affinity Petcare, Affinity Advance, was launched in India in collaboration with a new pet food brand from Scientific Remedies. The goal of Scientific Remedies and Affinity Petcare's partnership, which includes this launch, is to give access to the "best quality pet food" to the pet owners in India.

Increasing Trend of Pet Ownership is a Significant Driver for the Pet Food Market

The rise in pet ownership is a significant factor driving the growth of the pet food market in India. The growing pet ownership trend, particularly in urban areas, is driving a shift in consumer behavior towards purchasing suitable and nutritious pet food options.

With an expanding population of pets, including dogs, cats, and other companion animals, pet owners have heightened awareness regarding the significance of providing optimal nutrition to ensure the well-being and longevity of their furry companions. This surge in pet ownership has led to an increase in the availability of pet food products, as both domestic and international brands strive to meet the diverse preferences and nutritional requirements of pets.

The rising pet ownership trend has not only increased the volume of pet food consumption but has also prompted innovations in formulations, flavors, and packaging to cater to the evolving needs of a growing and selective pet-owning demographic. As pets become integral to more households, the pet food market in India continues to expand, presenting opportunities for further market expansion and development.

In January 2023, Canada-based vegan pet food company, Nature's HUG, announced its exclusive HUFT (Heads Up for Tails) launch in India. Nature's HUG is a vegan pet food that has been carefully formulated for Indian households that avoid meat or for pets that have allergies to meat.

Increasing Reliance on Veterinarian Recommendations for Pet Diets

The increasing reliance on veterinarian recommendations is a crucial factor driving the growth of the pet food market in India. Pet owners increasingly rely on veterinarians' expertise to guide them in making informed decisions about their pets' nutrition. As the prevalence of pet health issues increases, there is a growing demand for specialized diets and prescription-based pet foods recommended by veterinarians to address specific health conditions.

Veterinarian endorsements enhance trust among pet owners, who prioritize the health of their pets and are willing to invest in premium and scientifically formulated pet food products. These recommendations contribute not only to the overall health of pets but also to purchasing decisions, driving the market towards a more sophisticated and specialized range of pet food options. With a growing number of pet owners seeking professional advice on their pets' diets, the role of veterinarians in shaping the pet food market in India is becoming more evident.

In May 2022, the pet food company MARS Petcare introduced premium cat food under the IAMS brand in India. Four dry varieties are available in India from the IAMS premium line, all of which are specifically formulated to provide adult cats (a year and older) and kittens (two to twelve months) with a natural, healthy defence. IAMS cat food is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of adult cats, including new moms, as well as kittens. It is created in collaboration with veterinarians.

The Most Purchased Pet Food Being Commonly Associated with Dogs

In the dynamic environment of the Indian pet food market, the most purchased and widely consumed pet food is predominantly associated with dogs. Dogs have a special place as beloved companions and integral family members across households in India, resulting in the increasing demand for dog-specific food products.

Dog food offerings, ranging from dry kibble to wet food, treats, and specialized diets, dominate the market. The prevalence of dogs as the preferred pet in Indian households has led to a concentrated focus on formulating nutritionally balanced and flavourful options tailored to meet the various needs of different dog breeds, sizes, and life stages.

In August 2022, with a strong focus on providing a comprehensive range of pet care goods and services that are affordable, purposeful, and of high quality, Wiggles, one of the pet care brands in India, announced the launch of EveryDawg, its new food line. EveryDawg dry food is suitable for all dog breeds and is free of gluten and sugar. The product comes in three varieties- Mother and Puppy, Puppies, and Adult Dogs.

Dry Pet Food Holds a Larger Market Share

Dry pet food has a significant and leading market share in India's pet food market. Its dominance is attributed to a combination of practical advantages that resonate with a diverse group of pet owners. The convenience factor plays a crucial role, as dry kibble has an extended shelf life and requires no refrigeration, aligning with the preferences of pet owners seeking hassle-free storage and handling.

Affordability is another key driver, making dry pet food a cost-effective option for many pet owners in India. The ability to provide a nutritious diet at a reasonable price enhances its appeal, particularly in a market where value-conscious consumers seek quality products for their pets.

In March 2023, Supertails.com, a D2C pet care brand, introduced a baked dry food for dogs under its existing brand, Henlo. The product comes in various size options ranging from 100g pack size to 3kg pack size. It claims to contain 26% protein obtained from 100% human-grade chicken. It is also nose-friendly for humans.

Future Market Scenario (FY2024 - FY2031F)

The future of the India pet food market is expected to witness a surge in various and specialized products. As pet humanization progresses, demand for premium and tailor-made pet diets, including organic, grain-free, and breed-specific formulations, is likely to increase, encompassing the unique needs of pet owners.

The market is poised to see a surge in e-commerce dominance. The convenience of online platforms for pet food purchases, coupled with a wider product selection and home delivery options, will make it increasingly accessible for pet owners in urban and rural areas.

The future pet food market in India will strongly emphasize health and wellbeing. Consumers will seek functional and natural ingredients, resulting in a surge in demand for pet foods addressing specific health issues, promoting preventive care, and aligning with pets' overall health.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

India pet food market's key players will contribute significantly to the industry's growth and development. Established international brands such as Nestle India Limited, Mars International India Private Limited, and Colgate Palmolive (India) Ltd continue to have a strong presence, utilizing their global expertise to cater to the diverse preferences of Indian pet owners.

Furthermore, domestic players such as Cosmo First Limited, Indian Broiler Group, and Himalaya Wellness Company are gaining popularity by focusing on formulating products that align with local preferences, providing a competitive edge. These companies are anticipated to be a significant factor in shaping the future of the India pet food market.

The outlook for key players revolves around a dynamic mix of factors, including increased product innovation, strategic marketing, and a heightened focus on e-commerce distribution networks. As consumer awareness of pet nutrition grows, there is a trend towards premiumization and a shift towards natural, organic, and specialized diets. Key players are likely to respond by introducing new formulations and expanding their product portfolios to increase their market share.

Collaborations with veterinarians for product endorsements and a greater emphasis on sustainability in packaging and sourcing are anticipated trends. Many existing companies are also entering the pet food industry with the launch of new brands. For instance, in December 2022, Mankind Pharma's introduced its new pet food brand, PetStar Dog Food, marking the company's entry into the pet care industry. The company produces treats, gravy products, and dry food under the PetStar brand. The food products are produced in the United Kingdom in accordance with BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards) quality and safety standards.