Study Period | 2017 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 3.93 Billion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 4.74 Billion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 3.82 % |
Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Australia Pet Food Market Analysis
The Australia Pet Food Market size is estimated at 3.93 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 4.74 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.82% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
Australia's pet food industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by changing consumer demographics and preferences. The market is particularly shaped by younger consumers, with Generation Z comprising approximately 70% of pet owners as of 2021. This demographic shift has led to increased adoption of premium pet food market products and a greater emphasis on pet nutrition and wellness. The country has emerged as a significant player in the Asia-Pacific region, accounting for 12.2% of the regional pet food market in 2022, establishing itself as the third-largest market in the region. This position reflects the strong pet ownership culture in Australia, where pets are increasingly considered integral family members.
The distribution landscape for Australian pet food continues to evolve, with traditional and modern retail channels adapting to changing consumer preferences. Supermarkets and hypermarkets maintain a dominant position with an extensive network of 1,108 stores across 956 cities as of 2023, offering convenience and accessibility to pet owners. The retail infrastructure has been strengthened through strategic expansions and modernization efforts, with major chains developing dedicated pet care sections to provide comprehensive product selections. This evolution in retail infrastructure has been accompanied by the rise of specialized pet stores and online channels, creating a multi-channel shopping environment.
Product innovation and premiumization have become key drivers of market development, with manufacturers focusing on specialized nutrition and functional ingredients. In July 2023, Hill's Pet Nutrition demonstrated this trend by launching new MSC-certified pollock and insect protein products specifically designed for pets with sensitive stomachs and skin conditions. This launch exemplifies the industry's movement toward sustainable and health-focused product development. Manufacturers are increasingly incorporating novel ingredients and developing specialized formulations to address specific health concerns and dietary requirements of pets.
The competitive landscape of Australia's pet food industry is characterized by a mix of established multinational corporations and emerging local players. The industry has witnessed significant investment in manufacturing capabilities, with companies establishing new production facilities to meet growing demand. The market structure supports both premium and mass-market segments, with companies differentiating themselves through product quality, innovation, and marketing strategies. This competitive environment has fostered continuous improvement in product quality and manufacturing standards, contributing to the overall pet food market value development.
Australia Pet Food Market Trends
Cats are the second-most adopted pets in the country due to a rise in the need for companionship during the pandemic
- The cat is the second most popular pet in Australia, and the country has witnessed an increase in the cat population. There is a trend of an increase in the adoption of cats by the people of Australia for the past five years. This trend is due to the increase in pet humanization, cats being able to live in smaller spaces compared to dogs, the need for companionship during the pandemic, increasing urbanization, and the fact that they can be kept indoors without feeling cooped up.
- The country has less number of cat owners as compared to dog owners, but the average cat per household is more than that of dogs. For instance, in 2022, the households owning a cat accounted for 33.3% of the total households having a pet, and the average cat per household was 1.6, whereas the average dog per household was 1.3. Additionally, the country witnessed an increase in the number of homes owing cats from 2.6 million in 2019 to 3.3 million in 2022 due to a rise in the need for companionship during the pandemic. The effect of the pandemic is anticipated to be witnessed for 5-10 years as the average lifespan of cats is more than 20 years.
- The cat as a pet is being acquired by different channels such as animal shelters, friends, breeders, pet stores, and vets. An animal shelter is the acquisition channel used mostly by potential pet parents in the country because of the unbiased opinions, and they disclose all known health problems to potential adopters before releasing an animal for adoption. For instance, in 2022, animal shelters accounted for 28%, whereas pet shops accounted for 11%. Additionally, the purchase of cats from pet stores increased from 8% in 2019 to 11% in 2022 due to increasing disposable income, and the demand for pets was high during the pandemic.
The growing awareness of the nutritional requirements of pets and the increasing trend of pet premiumization are driving the expenditure in the country
- Australia has been witnessing an increase in pet expenditure during the study period. The increase in pet expenditure can be attributed to growing awareness about specialized pet food and providing different types of pet food, such as snacks, dry pet food, and wet pet food to their pets. These contributed to increasing pet expenditure by 25.3% between 2017 and 2022. Dogs have a higher share than cats and other animals because large-sized dogs consume a high amount of dog food, are more allergic to different foods, and have a higher amount being spent on veterinary products as they are customized diets.
- There are different types of expenses incurred by the pet parents. The different expenses include pet food expenses, pet insurance, veterinary costs, and services such as pet grooming, pet walking, and pet daycare. Pet food has the highest share of the pet expenses incurred by pet parents in the country as the pet parents are procuring products sold under premium brands such as Royal Canin and Purina, growing awareness about different nutrients required by pets, and rising disposable income. For instance, pet food expenses accounted for 30% in 2019, which increased to 51% in 2022.
- Pet parents of dogs and cats have shifted from buying pet food from supermarkets to online stores. For instance, 74% of dog food purchases from supermarkets in 2019 decreased to 64% in 2022, and online sales accounted for 30% in 2022. This change in buying patterns is due to the convenience of buying pet food from anywhere.
- Pet expenditure is expected to increase in the country during the forecast period because of the rise in awareness of the nutritional requirements of pets, changes in buying patterns, and growing pet premiumization.
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- The growing adoption of dogs during the pandemic was led by the evolving pet ecosystem and the need for companionship
- The rising popularity of other animals due to the changing preferences of pet owners are driving their adoption in the country
Segment Analysis: PET FOOD PRODUCT
Food Segment in Australia Pet Food Market
The pet food segment maintains its dominant position in the Australian pet food market, accounting for approximately 74% of the total market value in 2024. This substantial pet food market share is primarily driven by the increasing shift from home-cooked meals to commercial pet food products among Australian pet owners. The segment's growth is further supported by the rising awareness among dog owners regarding the pet nutrition market, higher usage of commercial products, and the increasing trend of pet humanization. The availability of various brands and product types, including dry and wet pet food blended with functional ingredients, has strengthened this segment's market position. Additionally, the segment's growth is bolstered by the increasing premiumization trend, where pet owners are willing to invest in high-quality commercial pet food products to ensure optimal nutrition for their pets.

Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements Segment in Australia Pet Food Market
The pet nutraceuticals/supplements segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in the Australian pet food market, projected to grow at approximately 12% during 2024-2029. This remarkable growth is driven by the increasing awareness about preventive healthcare and the rising demand for supplements like vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids. The segment's expansion is further supported by the growing trend of pet humanization, where pet owners are increasingly focused on their pets' overall health and well-being. The availability of various innovative products through multiple distribution channels and the increasing incorporation of natural ingredients in pet supplements are contributing to this growth. Moreover, the rising adoption of specialized nutrition solutions and the growing understanding of the benefits of preventive healthcare among pet owners are expected to sustain this segment's growth trajectory.
Remaining Segments in Pet Food Product Market
The pet treats and veterinary diets segments play crucial roles in completing the Australian pet food market landscape. Pet treats serve multiple purposes, including training rewards, dental health maintenance, and pet-owner bonding, while veterinary diets cater to pets with specific health conditions and dietary requirements. These segments are experiencing steady growth driven by increasing pet humanization and health awareness among pet owners. 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. Both segments are witnessing continuous product innovations and the introduction of natural and functional ingredients to meet evolving consumer preferences.
Segment Analysis: PETS
Dogs Segment in Australia Pet Food Market
Dogs represent the dominant segment in Australia's dog food industry, accounting for approximately 44% of the total market value in 2024. 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. The segment is also experiencing robust growth, projected to expand at around 4% annually from 2024 to 2029, driven by increasing dog adoption rates, rising pet humanization trends, and growing awareness about pet health and nutrition among Australian pet parents.
Remaining Segments in Pet Segmentation
The cat and other pets segments form significant portions of Australia's pet food market, each serving distinct consumer needs and preferences. 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. Both segments are benefiting from increasing pet ownership trends and growing consumer awareness about proper pet nutrition. The market for these segments is also being shaped by innovations in product formulations, increasing availability of specialized diets, and the growing trend of pet humanization across all pet categories.
Segment Analysis: DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Segment in Australian Pet Food Market
Supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the Australian pet food market distribution landscape, commanding approximately 60% of the market share in 2024. 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. These establishments attract customers through competitive pricing strategies, regular promotional offers, and the availability of both premium and private-label brands, making them the preferred choice for routine pet food purchases.
Online Channel Segment in Australian Pet Food Market
The online distribution channel is experiencing remarkable growth in the Australian pet food market, projected to grow at approximately 6% annually from 2024 to 2029. 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. Online platforms are also gaining popularity by offering competitive pricing, exclusive online-only products, and personalized shopping experiences through AI-driven recommendations and targeted promotions, making them increasingly attractive to tech-savvy pet owners.
Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel
The Australian pet food market's distribution landscape is further diversified through specialty stores, convenience stores, and other channels including veterinary clinics and pet shelters. Specialty stores stand out by offering expert advice, premium products, and customized solutions for specific pet needs. Convenience stores serve as quick-access points for emergency purchases and basic pet food needs, particularly in urban areas. Other channels, including veterinary clinics and pet shelters, play a crucial role in distributing specialized diets and prescription pet food products. These channels collectively contribute to a comprehensive distribution network that caters to various consumer preferences and shopping behaviors in the Australian pet food market.
Australia Pet Food Industry Overview
Top Companies in Australia Pet Food Market
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.
Mix of Global and Local Players
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, Nestlé Purina, and Colgate-Palmolive leverage their international expertise and extensive research capabilities to maintain market positions, while local companies such as Real Pet Food Co. and EBOS Group capitalize on their understanding of regional preferences and established distribution networks. The market structure allows for healthy competition while maintaining sufficient space for both established players and new entrants to operate profitably.
The market demonstrates moderate consolidation levels, with mergers and acquisitions serving as key growth strategies for both global and local players. Companies are strategically acquiring smaller, specialized manufacturers to expand their product portfolios and gain access to new market segments. The trend of vertical integration is evident as companies seek to control various aspects of the supply chain, from manufacturing to distribution, to ensure product quality and optimize operational efficiency. This strategy is particularly beneficial for small companies in the pet food sector aiming to enhance their market presence.
Innovation and Distribution Drive Market Success
Success in the Australian pet food market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences. Incumbents can strengthen their market position by investing in research and development to create differentiated products, particularly in premium and specialized segments. Building strong relationships with veterinarians and pet care professionals, expanding manufacturing capabilities, and developing omnichannel distribution strategies are crucial for maintaining competitive advantage. Companies must also focus on sustainability initiatives and transparent sourcing practices to align with growing consumer consciousness.
For contenders seeking to gain ground, opportunities lie in targeting specific market niches and developing innovative products that address unmet consumer needs. Success factors include establishing a strong local manufacturing presence, developing effective distribution partnerships, and leveraging digital platforms to reach consumers directly. The regulatory environment, while structured, remains supportive of market growth, with companies needing to maintain compliance with quality standards while pursuing innovation. The market's resilience to substitution risks is strengthened by growing pet humanization trends and increasing consumer willingness to spend on premium pet food products. The market share of pet food by brand is influenced by these strategic initiatives and consumer trends.
Australia Pet Food Market Leaders
-
Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.)
-
EBOS Group Limited
-
Mars Incorporated
-
Nestle (Purina)
-
Real Pet Food Co.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Australia Pet Food Market News
- 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.
Australia Pet Food Market Report - Table of Contents
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS
2. REPORT OFFERS
3. INTRODUCTION
- 3.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
- 3.2 Scope of the Study
- 3.3 Research Methodology
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 Regulatory Framework
- 4.4 Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD and Volume, Forecasts up to 2030 and analysis of growth prospects)
-
5.1 Pet Food Product
- 5.1.1 Food
- 5.1.1.1 By Sub Product
- 5.1.1.1.1 Dry Pet Food
- 5.1.1.1.1.1 By Sub Dry Pet Food
- 5.1.1.1.1.1.1 Kibbles
- 5.1.1.1.1.1.2 Other Dry Pet Food
- 5.1.1.1.2 Wet Pet Food
- 5.1.2 Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements
- 5.1.2.1 By Sub Product
- 5.1.2.1.1 Milk Bioactives
- 5.1.2.1.2 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- 5.1.2.1.3 Probiotics
- 5.1.2.1.4 Proteins and Peptides
- 5.1.2.1.5 Vitamins and Minerals
- 5.1.2.1.6 Other Nutraceuticals
- 5.1.3 Pet Treats
- 5.1.3.1 By Sub Product
- 5.1.3.1.1 Crunchy Treats
- 5.1.3.1.2 Dental Treats
- 5.1.3.1.3 Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
- 5.1.3.1.4 Soft & Chewy Treats
- 5.1.3.1.5 Other Treats
- 5.1.4 Pet Veterinary Diets
- 5.1.4.1 By Sub Product
- 5.1.4.1.1 Diabetes
- 5.1.4.1.2 Digestive Sensitivity
- 5.1.4.1.3 Oral Care Diets
- 5.1.4.1.4 Renal
- 5.1.4.1.5 Urinary tract disease
- 5.1.4.1.6 Other Veterinary Diets
-
5.2 Pets
- 5.2.1 Cats
- 5.2.2 Dogs
- 5.2.3 Other Pets
-
5.3 Distribution Channel
- 5.3.1 Convenience Stores
- 5.3.2 Online Channel
- 5.3.3 Specialty Stores
- 5.3.4 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 5.3.5 Other Channels
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Key Strategic Moves
- 6.2 Market Share Analysis
- 6.3 Company Landscape
-
6.4 Company Profiles
- 6.4.1 ADM
- 6.4.2 Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company Inc.)
- 6.4.3 Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.)
- 6.4.4 EBOS Group Limited
- 6.4.5 IB Group (Drools Pet Food Pvt. Ltd.)
- 6.4.6 Mars Incorporated
- 6.4.7 Nestle (Purina)
- 6.4.8 Petway Petcare
- 6.4.9 Real Pet Food Co.
- 6.4.10 Schell & Kampeter Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR PET FOOD CEOS
8. APPENDIX
-
8.1 Global Overview
- 8.1.1 Overview
- 8.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
- 8.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
- 8.1.4 Market Dynamics (DROs)
- 8.2 Sources & References
- 8.3 List of Tables & Figures
- 8.4 Primary Insights
- 8.5 Data Pack
- 8.6 Glossary of Terms
Australia Pet Food Industry Segmentation
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 & 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 |
Australia Pet Food Market Research FAQs
How big is the Australia Pet Food Market?
The Australia Pet Food Market size is expected to reach USD 3.93 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 3.82% to reach USD 4.74 billion by 2030.
What is the current Australia Pet Food Market size?
In 2025, the Australia Pet Food Market size is expected to reach USD 3.93 billion.
Who are the key players in Australia Pet Food Market?
Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.), EBOS Group Limited, Mars Incorporated, Nestle (Purina) and Real Pet Food Co. are the major companies operating in the Australia Pet Food Market.
Which segment has the biggest share in the Australia Pet Food Market?
In the Australia Pet Food Market, the Dogs segment accounts for the largest share by pets.
Which is the fastest growing segment in the Australia Pet Food Market?
In 2025, the Dogs segment accounts for the fastest growing by pets in the Australia Pet Food Market.
What years does this Australia Pet Food Market cover, and what was the market size in 2025?
In 2025, the Australia Pet Food Market size was estimated at 3.93 billion. The report covers the Australia Pet Food Market historical market size for years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Australia Pet Food Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Our Best Selling Reports
Australia Pet Food Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the Australian pet food industry. We leverage our extensive experience in pet industry research and consulting. Our detailed report examines the evolving landscape of pet food manufacturing, distribution, and retail across Australia. It includes insights into organic pet food segments and premium pet food categories. The analysis covers major pet food companies in Australia, distribution channels, and emerging trends in the pet food industry. Particular attention is given to both dog food and cat food market dynamics.
Stakeholders in the pet food industry benefit from our thorough examination of pet nutrition market developments and pet product industry innovations. The report, available as an easy-to-download PDF, provides valuable insights into pet food industry statistics, pet market analysis, and pet supplies market opportunities. Our research encompasses Australian pet stores, major retail channels, and emerging pet food industry trends. It offers actionable intelligence for businesses operating in the Australian pet sector. The analysis includes detailed coverage of pet food leaders and emerging players, supported by comprehensive pet industry statistics Australia and future growth projections.