Australia Pet Food Market Size and Share

Australia Pet Food Market (2025 - 2030)
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Australia Pet Food Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The Australia pet food market size stood at USD 3.91 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 4.99 billion by 2030, advancing at a 5.03% CAGR. Premiumization, strong pet humanization, and sustained household spending on companion animals anchor market resilience. Manufacturers are scaling domestic capacity and renewable energy integration to protect margins, while alternative proteins and functional ingredients keep innovative pipelines active. Direct-to-consumer disruptors are reshaping route-to-market economics, prompting incumbents to accelerate omnichannel investments and localized production. Macroeconomic headwinds such as meat cost inflation and supply chain volatility are being mitigated through formulation agility and supplier diversification, preserving value growth in the Australia pet food market.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By pet food product, food products led with 70.7% of Australia pet food market size in 2024, while pet treats are forecast to expand at a 6.2% CAGR through 2030.
  • By pet, dogs accounted for 44.0% of the Australia pet food market size in 2024, while the cat segment is projected to grow at a 4.9% CAGR through 2030.
  • By distribution channel, supermarkets and hypermarkets captured 59.2% of Australia pet food market size in 2024, the online channel is projected to post a 6.5% CAGR through 2030.

Segment Analysis

By Pet Food Product: Food Dominance Faces Treat Disruption

Food products account for a dominant 70.7% market size in 2024, reflecting their essential nature and high purchase frequency among Australian pet owners. Dry pet food remains a significant market presence due to its convenience and shelf stability. Wet pet food is gaining market share, driven by its premium positioning and palatability, which align with the growing trend of pet humanization. The substantial market share of pet food in Australia is primarily attributed to the increasing shift among pet owners from home-cooked meals to commercial pet food products. This segment's growth is further supported by rising awareness among dog owners about pet nutrition, greater adoption of commercial products, and the increasing emphasis on pet humanization. Additionally, the availability of diverse brands and product types, including dry and wet pet food enriched with functional ingredients, has further strengthened the segment's market position.

Pet treats are emerging as the fastest-growing segment, with a 6.2% CAGR through 2030, driven by increased feeding frequency and humanization trends that position treats as meal supplements rather than occasional rewards. The pet treats segment is particularly benefiting from the growing trend of premium and functional treats, while the veterinary diets segment is expanding due to the increasing focus on specialized nutrition for pets with health issues. The regulatory framework under AS5812 standards ensures product safety while allowing innovation in functional ingredient incorporation, creating opportunities for differentiation through science-backed nutritional claims [2]Source: Senate Committee Report, “Regulatory approaches to ensure the safety of pet food,” APH.GOV.AU .

Australia Pet Food Market: Market Share by Pet Food Product
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By Pet Type: Dogs Lead While Cats Accelerate

Dogs maintain the largest segment at 44.0% of Australia pet food market size in 2024, reflecting their higher food consumption per animal and the established culture of dog ownership in Australian households. This significant market share is attributed to the country's large dog population, with dogs being the most popular companion animals among Australian households. The segment's dominance is further reinforced by higher expenditure patterns among dog owners, particularly on premium and specialized food products. Australian dog owners are increasingly focusing on high-quality nutrition, with a growing preference for products containing natural ingredients and specialized formulations. 

Cats are experiencing faster growth at 4.9% CAGR through 2030, driven by urbanization trends and apartment living preferences that favor lower-maintenance pets. The cat segment's growth is particularly pronounced in metropolitan areas, where housing constraints and lifestyle factors favor feline companions over larger pets that require more space and exercise. The cat segment is characterized by specialized nutritional requirements and a growing trend toward premium and therapeutic diets, particularly among urban pet owners. The other pets segment, which includes birds, fish, and small mammals, represents a diverse market with specialized dietary needs and varying product formulations. 

By Distribution Channel: Online Disrupts Traditional Retail

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets retain their dominant distribution position, with a 59.2% Australia pet food market size in 2024, leveraging their convenience and one-stop shopping advantages for routine pet food purchases. This channel's dominance is primarily attributed to its one-stop shopping convenience, allowing pet owners to purchase pet food alongside their regular household items. Major chains like Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi maintain dedicated pet sections offering comprehensive product ranges across various categories, including food, treats, and veterinary diets. The channel's strength is further reinforced by its extensive network of 1,108 supermarkets across 956 cities in Australia, ensuring widespread accessibility. 

Online channels are experiencing the fastest growth at 6.5% CAGR through 2030, accelerated by subscription models and direct-to-consumer brands that offer personalized nutrition and delivery convenience. The online channel reached USD 211.6 million in 2024, representing significant growth from the 1% penetration rate observed in earlier years [3]Source: Port Macquarie Veterinary Hospital, “Port Vet Online Shop,” PORTVET.COM.AU . This channel's accelerated growth is driven by increasing digital adoption among pet owners, offering unprecedented convenience through home delivery services and subscription-based models. The segment's expansion is further supported by the comprehensive product information available online, enabling pet owners to make informed decisions through detailed ingredient lists, nutritional information, and customer reviews. 

Australia Pet Food Market: Market Share by Distribution Channel
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Geography Analysis

Australia represents a concentrated market with distinct regional variations in pet ownership patterns and purchasing behaviors. Metropolitan areas including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth drive the majority of market value through higher pet ownership rates and greater willingness to purchase premium products. Urban consumers demonstrate stronger adoption of direct-to-consumer models and fresh food delivery services, with companies like Lyka achieving significant penetration in major cities through same-day delivery capabilities and personalized nutrition offerings. The geographic concentration creates advantages for fresh food models that require delivery density to achieve economic viability while presenting challenges for national brands seeking consistent distribution coverage.

Regional and rural areas maintain different consumption patterns, with greater emphasis on traditional dry food products and resistance to premium positioning based solely on sustainability or novel ingredient claims. The rural market represents opportunities for brands that emphasize performance benefits and value positioning rather than environmental messaging, as demonstrated by the geographic relevance scores for various market drivers. Pet ownership rates remain high across all regions, but spending per pet varies significantly between urban and rural areas, creating market segmentation opportunities for companies with diverse product portfolios.

The regulatory environment under APVMA (Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority) and FSANZ (Food Standards Australia New Zealand) oversight applies consistently across all geographic regions, though enforcement and compliance monitoring may vary in remote areas. Export opportunities are emerging as Australian manufacturers leverage their disease-free status and quality reputation to access international markets, with companies like Real Pet Food Company and Freeze Dry Australia developing export capabilities to diversify revenue sources beyond the domestic market.

Competitive Landscape

The Australian pet food market exhibits a fragmented competitive landscape with a balanced mix of global conglomerates and local specialists. Global players like Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.), and Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods) are leveraging their international expertise and extensive research capabilities to maintain market positions. The competitive intensity is increasing as direct-to-consumer startups challenge traditional distribution models, forcing incumbents to develop omnichannel capabilities and invest in digital customer acquisition strategies.

The Australian pet food market is characterized by companies actively pursuing product innovation and strategic expansion initiatives. Major players are focusing on developing premium and specialized pet food products, including natural ingredients, grain-free options, and functional foods targeting specific health conditions. Operational agility is demonstrated through investments in local manufacturing facilities and distribution networks, with several companies establishing or expanding production sites across Australia. 

Strategic moves predominantly involve partnerships with research institutes, veterinary clinics, and local distributors to strengthen market presence and enhance product development capabilities. Companies are also expanding their reach through multi-channel distribution strategies, combining traditional retail presence with growing e-commerce capabilities to meet evolving consumer preferences. This dynamic environment is led by leaders in pet food who are setting benchmarks in innovation and distribution.

Australia Pet Food Industry Leaders

  1. Mars, Incorporated

  2. Nestle (Purina)

  3. Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.)

  4. Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.)

  5. Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Australia Pet Food Market
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Recent Industry Developments

  • July 2023: Hill's Pet Nutrition introduced its new MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certified pollock and insect protein products for pets with sensitive stomachs and skin lines. They contain vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
  • May 2023: Nestle Purina launched new cat treats under the Friskies "Friskies Playfuls - treats" brand. These treats are round in shape and are available in chicken and liver and salmon and shrimp flavors for adult cats.
  • April 2023: Mars Incorporated opened its first pet food research and development center in Asia-Pacific. This new facility, called the APAC pet center, will support the company's product development.

Table of Contents for Australia Pet Food Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study
  • 1.3 Research Methodology

2. REPORT OFFERS

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND KEY FINDINGS

4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • 4.1 Pet Population
    • 4.1.1 Cats
    • 4.1.2 Dogs
    • 4.1.3 Other Pets
  • 4.2 Pet Expenditure
  • 4.3 Consumer Trends

5. SUPPLY AND PRODUCTION DYNAMICS

  • 5.1 Trade Analysis
  • 5.2 Ingredient Trends
  • 5.3 Value Chain and Distribution Channel Analysis
  • 5.4 Regulatory Framework
  • 5.5 Market Drivers
    • 5.5.1 Premiumization of Pet Diets
    • 5.5.2 Humanization of Pets and Treat-like Feeding Behavior
    • 5.5.3 Rise of Prescription Diet Demand via Veterinarians
    • 5.5.4 Mainstream Adoption of Functional Ingredients
    • 5.5.5 Decentralized Fresh-Food Kitchens in Major Cities
    • 5.5.6 Alternative Protein Inclusion
  • 5.6 Market Restraints
    • 5.6.1 Supply-side Pressure from Meat Inflation
    • 5.6.2 Regulatory Delay on Novel Ingredient Approval
    • 5.6.3 Sustainability-Heritage Mismatch in Rural Areas
    • 5.6.4 Intensifying Competition from Direct-to-Consumer Start-ups

6. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE AND VOLUME)

  • 6.1 Pet Food Product
    • 6.1.1 Food
    • 6.1.1.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.1.1.1 Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1 By Sub Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1.1 Kibbles
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1.2 Other Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.2 Wet Pet Food
    • 6.1.2 Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements
    • 6.1.2.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.2.1.1 Milk Bioactives
    • 6.1.2.1.2 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
    • 6.1.2.1.3 Probiotics
    • 6.1.2.1.4 Proteins and Peptides
    • 6.1.2.1.5 Vitamins and Minerals
    • 6.1.2.1.6 Other Nutraceuticals
    • 6.1.3 Pet Treats
    • 6.1.3.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.3.1.1 Crunchy Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.2 Dental Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.3 Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.4 Soft and Chewy Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.5 Other Treats
    • 6.1.4 Pet Veterinary Diets
    • 6.1.4.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.4.1.1 Diabetes
    • 6.1.4.1.2 Digestive Sensitivity
    • 6.1.4.1.3 Oral Care Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.4 Renal
    • 6.1.4.1.5 Urinary tract disease
    • 6.1.4.1.6 Other Veterinary Diets
  • 6.2 Pets
    • 6.2.1 Cats
    • 6.2.2 Dogs
    • 6.2.3 Other Pets
  • 6.3 Distribution Channel
    • 6.3.1 Convenience Stores
    • 6.3.2 Online Channel
    • 6.3.3 Specialty Stores
    • 6.3.4 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 6.3.5 Other Channels

7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 7.1 Key Strategic Moves
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Brand Positioning Matrix
  • 7.4 Market Claim Analysis
  • 7.5 Company Landscape
  • 7.6 Company Profiles (Includes Global Level Overview, Market Level Overview, Core Business Segments, Financials, Key Information, Market Rank, Market Share, Products and Services, and Analysis of Recent Developments).
    • 7.6.1 Mars, Incorporated
    • 7.6.2 Nestle (Purina)
    • 7.6.3 Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.)
    • 7.6.4 Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.)
    • 7.6.5 Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)
    • 7.6.6 Real Pet Food Co.
    • 7.6.7 EBOS Group Limited
    • 7.6.8 Drools Pet Food Pvt. Ltd.
    • 7.6.9 ADM
    • 7.6.10 Petway Petcare
    • 7.6.11 EBOS Group Limited (Black Hawk)
    • 7.6.12 Hypro Pet Care Pty Ltd
    • 7.6.13 Australian Pet Brands Pty Ltd
    • 7.6.14 Ziwi Limited
    • 7.6.15 Vetalogica Pty Ltd

8. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR PET FOOD CEOS

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Australia Pet Food Market Report Scope

Food, Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements, Pet Treats, Pet Veterinary Diets are covered as segments by Pet Food Product. Cats, Dogs are covered as segments by Pets. Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are covered as segments by Distribution Channel.

Pet Food Product
Food By Sub Product Dry Pet Food By Sub Dry Pet Food Kibbles
Other Dry Pet Food
Wet Pet Food
Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements By Sub Product Milk Bioactives
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Probiotics
Proteins and Peptides
Vitamins and Minerals
Other Nutraceuticals
Pet Treats By Sub Product Crunchy Treats
Dental Treats
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
Soft and Chewy Treats
Other Treats
Pet Veterinary Diets By Sub Product Diabetes
Digestive Sensitivity
Oral Care Diets
Renal
Urinary tract disease
Other Veterinary Diets
Pets
Cats
Dogs
Other Pets
Distribution Channel
Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
Pet Food Product Food By Sub Product Dry Pet Food By Sub Dry Pet Food Kibbles
Other Dry Pet Food
Wet Pet Food
Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements By Sub Product Milk Bioactives
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Probiotics
Proteins and Peptides
Vitamins and Minerals
Other Nutraceuticals
Pet Treats By Sub Product Crunchy Treats
Dental Treats
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
Soft and Chewy Treats
Other Treats
Pet Veterinary Diets By Sub Product Diabetes
Digestive Sensitivity
Oral Care Diets
Renal
Urinary tract disease
Other Veterinary Diets
Pets Cats
Dogs
Other Pets
Distribution Channel Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
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Market Definition

  • FUNCTIONS - Pet foods are usually intended to provide complete and balanced nutrition to the pet but are primarily used as functional products. The scope includes the food and supplements consumed by pets including veterinary diets. Supplements/nutraceuticals that are directly supplied to pets are considered within the scope.
  • RESELLERS - Companies engaged in reselling of pet food without value addition have been excluded from the market scope, in order to avoid double counting.
  • END CONSUMERS - Pet owners are considered to be the end-consumers in the market studied.
  • DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS - Supermarkets/hypermarkets, specialty stores, convenience stores, online channels and other channels are considered within the scope. The stores which are exclusively providing pet related basic and custom products are considered within the scope of specialty stores.
Keyword Definition
Pet Food The scope of pet food includes the food that is eatable by pets including food, treats, veterinary diets, and nutraceuticals/supplements.
Food Food is animal feed intended for consumption by pets. It is formulated to provide essential nutrients and meet the dietary needs of various types of pets, including dogs, cats, and other animals. These are generally segmented into dry and wet pet foods.
Dry Pet Food Dry pet foods may be extruded/baked (kibbles) or flaked. They have a lower moisture content, typically around 12-20%.
Wet Pet Food Wet pet food, also known as canned pet food or moist pet food, generally has a higher moisture content compared to dry pet food, often ranging from 70-80%.
Kibbles Kibbles are dry, processed pet food in small, bite-sized pieces or pellets. They are specifically formulated to provide balanced nutrition for various domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, and other animals.
Treats Pet Treats are special food items or rewards given to pets, to show affection, and encourage good behavior. They are especially used during training. Pet treats are made from various combinations of meat or meat-derived materials with other ingredients.
Dental Treats Pet dental treats are specialized treats that are formulated to promote good oral hygiene in pets.​
Crunchy Treats It is a type of pet treat that has a firm and crispy texture which can be a good source of nutrition for pets.​
Soft and chewy treats Soft and Chewy pet treats are a type of pet food product that is formulated to be easy to chewy and digest. They are usually made from soft and pliable ingredients, such as meat, poultry, or vegetables, that have been blended and formed into bite-sized pieces or strips.​
Freeze-dried & Jerky Treats Freeze-dried and jerky treats are snacks given to pets, that are prepared through a special preservation process, without damaging the nutritional content, resulting in long-lasting, nutrient-rich treats.
Urinary Tract Disease Diets These are commercial diets that are specifically formulated to promote urinary health and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and other urinary problems.​
Renal Diets These are specialized pet foods formulated to support the health of pets with kidney disease or renal insufficiency.​
Digestive Sensitivity Diets Digestive-sensitive diets are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of pets with digestive issues such as food intolerances, allergies, and sensitivities. These diets are designed to be easily digestible and to reduce the symptoms of digestive problems in pets. ​
Oral Care Diets Oral care diets for pets are specially formulated diets produced to promote oral health and hygiene in pets.​
Grain-Free Pet Food Pet food that does not contain common grains like wheat, corn, or soy. Grain-free diets are often preferred by pet owners seeking alternative options or if their pets have specific dietary sensitivities.
Premium Pet Food High-quality pet food formulated with superior ingredients often offers additional nutritional benefits compared to standard pet food.
Natural Pet Food Pet food made from natural ingredients, with minimal processing and without artificial preservatives.
Organic Pet Food Pet food is produced using organic ingredients, free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Extrusion A manufacturing process used to produce dry pet food, where ingredients are cooked, mixed, and shaped under high pressure and temperature.
Other Pets Other pets include birds, fish, rabbits, hamsters, ferrets, and reptiles.
Palatability The taste, texture, and aroma of pet food influence its appeal and acceptance by pets.
Complete and Balanced Pet Food Pet food that provides all essential nutrients in appropriate proportions to meet the nutritional needs of pets without additional supplementation.
Preservatives These are the substances that are added to pet food to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage.
Nutraceuticals Food products that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, often contain bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic effects.
Probiotics Live beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy balance of gut flora, supporting digestive health and immune function in pets.
Antioxidants Compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, promoting cellular health and supporting the immune system in pets.
Shelf-Life The duration of which pet food remains safe and nutritionally viable for consumption after its production date.
Prescription diet Specialized pet food formulated to address specific medical conditions under veterinary supervision.
Allergen A substance that can cause allergic reactions in some pets, leading to food allergies or sensitivities.
Canned food Wet pet food that is packed in cans and contains higher moisture content than dry food.
Limited ingredient diet (LID) Pet food formulated with a reduced number of ingredients to minimize potential allergens.
Guaranteed Analysis The minimum or maximum levels of certain nutrients present in pet food.
Weight management Pet food designed to help pets maintain a healthy weight or support weight loss efforts.
Other Nutraceuticals It includes prebiotics, antioxidants, digestive fiber, enzymes, essential oils and herbs.
Other Veterinary Diets It includes weight management diets, skin and coat health, cardiac care, and joint care.
Other Treats It includes rawhides, mineral blocks, lickables, and catnips.
Other Dry Foods It includes cereal flakes, mixers, meal toppers, freeze-dried foods, and air-dried foods.
Other Animals It includes birds, fish, reptiles, and small animals (rabbits, ferrets, hamsters).
Other Distribution Channels It includes veterinary clinics, local unregulated stores, and feed and farm stores.
Proteins and Peptides Proteins are large molecules composed of basic units called amino acids which help in the growth and development of pets. Peptides are the short string of 2 to 50 amino acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats that play a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of Pets
Vitamins Vitamins are the essential organic compounds that are essential for vital physiological functioning.
Minerals Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances that are essential for various physiological functions in pets.
CKD Chronic Kidney Disease
DHA Docosahexaenoic Acid
EPA Eicosapentaenoic Acid
ALA Alpha-linolenic Acid
BHA Butylated Hydroxyanisol
BHT Butylated Hydroxytoluene
FLUTD Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
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Research Methodology

Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all our reports.

  • Step-1: IDENTIFY KEY VARIABLES: In order to build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step-1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set and the model is built on the basis of these variables.
  • Step-2: Build a Market Model: Market-size estimations for the forecast years are in nominal terms. Inflation is not a part of the pricing, and the average selling price (ASP) is kept constant throughout the forecast period.
  • Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.
  • Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms
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