
Canada Animal Health Care Market Analysis
The Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market size is estimated at USD 2.98 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 4.23 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.26% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The Canadian veterinary healthcare landscape has experienced significant transformation, driven by evolving pet ownership patterns and changing consumer attitudes toward animal health. According to the Canadian Animal Health Institute's latest data from 2022, the country witnessed substantial growth in companion animal populations, with dog ownership increasing to 7.9 million and cat ownership reaching 8.5 million. This demographic shift has fundamentally altered the industry's service delivery model, with veterinary clinics expanding their service offerings to accommodate the growing demand for specialized care. The trend has also prompted substantial investments in veterinary infrastructure and training programs across the country, reflecting the industry's adaptation to changing market dynamics.
The veterinary healthcare sector has demonstrated remarkable progress in infrastructure development and technological integration. A notable example is the Ontario Veterinary College's establishment of new surgery and anesthesia facilities in 2023, including the groundbreaking Lindy Barrow Minimally Invasive Procedures Suite, the first of its kind at a veterinary teaching school in Canada. This development represents a significant advancement in veterinary medicine education and practical healthcare delivery. The modernization of veterinary facilities has been accompanied by increased adoption of digital health records, telemedicine platforms, and advanced diagnostic equipment, enhancing the overall quality of veterinary care.
Therapeutic innovations and treatment protocols have evolved substantially, particularly in the field of pain management and disease prevention. According to research published in MDPI in September 2022, the integration of Tri-Solfen with NSAIDs has demonstrated significant improvements in livestock treatment outcomes, reducing pain and viral loads while supporting antimicrobial resistance stewardship. This advancement exemplifies the industry's commitment to developing more effective and sustainable treatment approaches. The sector has also witnessed increased emphasis on preventive care and wellness programs, reflecting a shift from reactive to proactive veterinary healthcare management.
Strategic consolidation and professional collaboration have emerged as defining characteristics of the Canadian veterinary healthcare market. Major industry players have pursued aggressive expansion strategies through acquisitions and partnerships, while independent practices have formed networks to enhance their service capabilities and market presence. For instance, in March 2022, Elanco Canada Limited received approval for innovative parasiticide treatments, demonstrating the industry's continued focus on product development and regulatory compliance. These strategic movements have contributed to the market's maturation and the establishment of more sophisticated veterinary services delivery models, ultimately benefiting both practitioners and pet owners.
Canada Animal Health Care Market Trends
INCREASE IN OWNERSHIP OF PET ANIMALS
The rising pet ownership trends in Canada have become a significant driver for the pet healthcare market, with more households choosing to adopt companion animals. According to the Insurance Information Institute's 2022 statistics, pet healthcare coverage has seen remarkable growth with 432,533 pets insured by the end of 2021, representing a substantial increase of 22.7% compared to the previous year. This surge in pet insurance adoption reflects not only the growing pet ownership but also an increased commitment to providing quality veterinary care for companion animals. The Canadian Animal Health Institute's data shows that cats continue to maintain their position as the most popular pets in Canadian households, with approximately 37% of households owning one or more cats, indicating a strong foundation for sustained demand in veterinary care services.
The increasing awareness about pet health and wellness has led to a corresponding rise in veterinary visits and preventive care measures. Pet owners are increasingly investing in regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments for their companion animals. This shift in pet care approach has been accompanied by a growing trend in specialized veterinary clinic services, including dental care, behavioral health, and specialized medical treatments. The Canadian veterinary community's emphasis on mandatory core vaccinations for dogs and cats, particularly in regions with high rabies risk, has further strengthened the connection between pet ownership and veterinary care demands.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY LEADING TO INNOVATIONS IN ANIMAL HEALTHCARE
The integration of advanced technologies has revolutionized animal healthcare delivery in Canada, with innovations spanning across diagnostics, treatment, and monitoring systems. The emergence of IoT-enabled wearable sensors has transformed how veterinary professionals monitor animal health, allowing for continuous data collection and remote health assessment without requiring frequent clinic visits. These technological advancements have enabled veterinarians to gather comprehensive health information, including physical activity patterns, vital signs, and behavioral changes, leading to more accurate and timely diagnoses. The implementation of big data analytics in veterinary diagnostics medicine has further enhanced the ability to analyze large-scale datasets encompassing physical and chemical environments, diet, exercise, behavior, and comprehensive health histories of animals.
The adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning in veterinary diagnostics has significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of disease detection and treatment planning. Modern veterinary facilities are increasingly incorporating cloud-based platforms and software-assisted systems for diagnosis and treatment management. The development of minimally invasive surgical techniques, supported by advanced imaging technologies, has expanded the range of treatment options available to veterinarians. For instance, the establishment of the Lindy Barrow Minimally Invasive Procedures Suite at the Ontario Veterinary College Health Sciences Centre represents Canada's first such facility at a veterinary teaching school, showcasing the country's commitment to advancing veterinary medical technology.
RISK OF EMERGING ZOONOSIS
The increasing prevalence of zoonotic diseases has become a critical driver for the veterinary healthcare market in Canada, necessitating enhanced surveillance, prevention, and treatment measures. According to recent government data, Lyme disease has emerged as the most frequently reported vector-borne illness in Canada, with Quebec alone reporting 709 cases in 2021, highlighting the growing concern over diseases that can transfer between animals and humans. The rise in zoonotic infections has led to increased demand for veterinary clinic diagnostics, preventive medications, and treatment protocols, particularly in regions where wildlife interfaces with domestic animals and human populations.
The threat of emerging zoonotic diseases has prompted stronger collaboration between veterinary healthcare providers, public health authorities, and research institutions. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency's active role in monitoring and controlling zoonotic diseases has led to enhanced testing capabilities and stricter protocols for disease surveillance. This has resulted in increased investment in animal hospital infrastructure and research, particularly in areas focusing on early detection and prevention of zoonotic diseases. The development of new vaccines, diagnostic tools, and treatment protocols specifically targeted at preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases has become a priority, driving innovation and growth in the veterinary healthcare sector.
Segment Analysis: By Product
Therapeutics Segment in Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market
The therapeutics segment continues to dominate the Canada veterinary healthcare market, commanding approximately 79% of the total market share in 2024. This substantial market presence is driven by the increasing demand for veterinary vaccines, parasiticides, anti-infectives, and medical feed additives across various animal types. The segment's strong performance is supported by the rising adoption of companion animals in Canadian households and the growing awareness about animal health among pet owners. The therapeutics segment encompasses a wide range of products, including vaccines which contribute significantly to disease prevention, parasiticides for controlling external and internal parasites, and anti-infectives for treating various bacterial and viral infections. The segment's growth is further bolstered by continuous product innovations and launches by major market players, particularly in areas like parasitic disease control and vaccination programs.

Diagnostics Segment in Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market
The diagnostics segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the Canadian veterinary healthcare market, projected to grow at approximately 9% from 2024 to 2029. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the increasing adoption of advanced veterinary diagnostics technologies, including immunodiagnostic tests, molecular diagnostics, and diagnostic imaging solutions. The segment's expansion is further supported by the rising prevalence of various animal diseases and the growing emphasis on early disease detection and prevention. Technological advancements in diagnostic tools, particularly in areas like point-of-care testing and imaging systems, are significantly contributing to the segment's growth. The increasing investment in veterinary diagnostics infrastructure and the rising demand for rapid and accurate diagnostic solutions are also key factors propelling this segment's expansion in the Canadian market.
Segment Analysis: By Animal Type
Dogs and Cats Segment in Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market
The dogs and cats segment dominates the Canada veterinary healthcare market, commanding approximately 49% market share in 2024. This substantial market presence is driven by the increasing adoption of pets across Canadian households, particularly in recent years when pet ownership has seen significant growth. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by growing awareness regarding companion animal healthcare and the rising demand for advanced veterinary care services. Canadian pet owners are increasingly investing in preventive healthcare measures, including regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and parasitic treatments for their companion animals. The segment's growth is also supported by the introduction of innovative animal therapeutic solutions and diagnostic products specifically designed for dogs and cats, with major market players like Boehringer Ingelheim and Zoetis continuously launching new products tailored for companion animals.
Ruminants Segment in Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market
The ruminants segment represents a significant growth opportunity in the Canadian veterinary healthcare market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 8% from 2024 to 2029. This robust growth is attributed to the increasing focus on livestock health management and the rising demand for dairy and meat products in Canada. The segment's expansion is supported by government initiatives aimed at preventing and controlling various infectious diseases in cattle and other ruminants. The implementation of advanced diagnostic technologies and treatment methods for conditions such as foot rot, bovine respiratory disease, and parasitic infections is driving innovation in this segment. Additionally, the growing emphasis on food safety and quality in the livestock industry is prompting farmers and veterinarians to adopt more sophisticated healthcare solutions for ruminants.
Remaining Segments in Animal Type
The other segments in the Canadian veterinary healthcare market, including swine, poultry, horses, and other animal types, each play distinct roles in shaping the overall market landscape. The swine segment is particularly significant due to Canada's substantial pork industry and the increasing focus on preventing diseases like African swine fever. The poultry segment is driven by the growing demand for poultry products and the need for advanced healthcare solutions to manage avian diseases. The horse segment, while smaller, maintains its importance in the market due to the specialized nature of equine healthcare and the high value associated with horse care. The remaining animal types segment, including small mammals and aquaculture, continues to contribute to market diversity by addressing specific healthcare needs across various species.
Canada Animal Health Care Industry Overview
Top Companies in Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market
The Canadian veterinary healthcare market features prominent players like Zoetis, Merck Animal Health, Boehringer Ingelheim, Elanco, Dechra Pharmaceuticals, and Virbac Corporation. These companies are actively pursuing product innovation through advanced therapeutic solutions and diagnostic technologies, particularly in areas like parasiticides, vaccines, and companion animal health products. Operational agility is demonstrated through strategic partnerships with research institutions and veterinary clinics, enabling rapid response to emerging animal health challenges. Companies are increasingly focusing on digital health solutions and telemedicine platforms to enhance service delivery. Strategic moves include portfolio expansion through licensing agreements and technology acquisitions, particularly in specialized areas like molecular diagnostics and pet wellness monitoring. Geographic expansion efforts are concentrated on strengthening distribution networks across Canadian provinces and establishing regional research and development centers to better serve local market needs.
Consolidated Market with Strong Global Players
The Canadian veterinary healthcare market exhibits a relatively consolidated structure dominated by global pharmaceutical conglomerates with diversified animal health portfolios. These multinational players leverage their extensive research capabilities, established distribution networks, and strong brand recognition to maintain market leadership. Local specialists maintain competitive positions in niche segments, particularly in areas requiring specialized knowledge of regional animal health challenges and regulatory requirements. The market demonstrates a balanced mix of both large-scale integrated solution providers and specialized product manufacturers focusing on specific therapeutic areas or animal species.
The market has witnessed significant merger and acquisition activity, primarily driven by large players seeking to expand their product portfolios and strengthen their market presence. Companies are increasingly pursuing vertical integration strategies, acquiring diagnostic laboratories, technology platforms, and distribution channels. Strategic partnerships between global and local players are becoming more common, combining international expertise with local market knowledge. The trend towards consolidation is particularly evident in the companion animal segment, where companies are acquiring specialized pet care product manufacturers and service providers to create comprehensive animal health solutions.
Innovation and Customer Focus Drive Success
Success in the Canadian veterinary healthcare market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate while maintaining strong relationships with veterinarians and pet owners. Incumbent players are focusing on developing integrated health solutions that combine pharmaceutical products with digital monitoring tools and diagnostic services. Market leaders are investing in research and development to address emerging animal health challenges and meet evolving regulatory requirements. Companies are also strengthening their direct-to-veterinarian relationships through educational programs, technical support services, and practice management solutions. The ability to provide comprehensive solutions rather than standalone products is becoming a critical differentiator in the market.
For contenders seeking to gain market share, success lies in identifying and serving underserved market segments and leveraging technological innovations to create differentiated offerings. The increasing focus on preventive care and wellness presents opportunities for new entrants with innovative solutions. Companies must navigate the complex regulatory environment while addressing the growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly products. The concentration of buying power among veterinary clinic chains and retail networks necessitates strong channel relationships and effective pricing strategies. The relatively low risk of substitution for approved veterinary pharmaceutical products provides stability, but companies must continuously innovate to maintain their competitive positions and address evolving customer needs.
Canada Animal Health Care Market Leaders
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Idexx Laboratories
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Phibro Animal health
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Virbac Corporation
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Vetoquinol SA
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Zoetis Animal Healthcare
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Canada Animal Health Care Market News
- In November 2022, Juno Veterinary debuted its first location as Toronto's only membership-based veterinary practice in the Summerhill neighborhood.
- In October 2022, Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI) launched its brand new logo, embodying its vision of healthier animals for a healthier Canada.
Canada Animal Health Care Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET DYNAMICS
- 4.1 Market Overview
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4.2 Market Drivers
- 4.2.1 Increase in Ownership of Pet Animals
- 4.2.2 Advanced Technology Leading to Innovations in Animal Healthcare
- 4.2.3 Risk of Emerging Zoonosis
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4.3 Market Restraints
- 4.3.1 Use of Counterfeit Medicines
- 4.3.2 High Costs of Animal Testing and Veterinary Services
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4.4 Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.4.1 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
- 4.4.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.4.4 Threat of Substitute Products
- 4.4.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (Market Size by Value in USD Million)
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5.1 By Product
- 5.1.1 By Therapeutics
- 5.1.1.1 Vaccines
- 5.1.1.2 Parasiticides
- 5.1.1.3 Anti-infectives
- 5.1.1.4 Medical Feed Additives
- 5.1.1.5 Other Therapeutics
- 5.1.2 By Diagnostics
- 5.1.2.1 Immunodiagnostic Tests
- 5.1.2.2 Molecular Diagnostics
- 5.1.2.3 Diagnostic Imaging
- 5.1.2.4 Clinical Chemistry
- 5.1.2.5 Other Diagnostics
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5.2 By Animal Type
- 5.2.1 Dogs and Cats
- 5.2.2 Horses
- 5.2.3 Ruminants
- 5.2.4 Swine
- 5.2.5 Poultry
- 5.2.6 Other Animal Types
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
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6.1 Company Profiles
- 6.1.1 Dechra Pharmaceuticals
- 6.1.2 Boehringer Ingelheim
- 6.1.3 Ceva Animal Health Inc.
- 6.1.4 Elanco (Eli Lilly and Company)
- 6.1.5 Idexx Laboratories
- 6.1.6 Merck Animal Health
- 6.1.7 Phibro Animal health
- 6.1.8 Virbac Corporation
- 6.1.9 Vetoquinol SA
- 6.1.10 Zoetis Animal Healthcare
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
Canada Animal Health Care Industry Segmentation
The veterinary healthcare market comprises therapeutic and diagnostic products and solutions for companion and farm animals. Companion animals can be tamed or adopted for companionship or as house/office guards, and farm animals are raised for meat and milk-based products. Companion animals include canines, felines, and equines. Farm animals include bovine, poultry, and porcine.
Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market is Segmented by Product (Therapeutics (Vaccines, Parasiticides, Anti-infectives, Medical Feed Additive, and Other Therapeutics) and Diagnostics (Immunodiagnostic Tests, Molecular Diagnostics, Diagnostic Imaging, Clinical Chemistry, and Other Diagnostics) and Animal Type (Dogs and Cats, Horses, Ruminants, Swine, Poultry, and Other Animal Types). The market report also covers the estimated market sizes and trends for Canada. The report offers the value (in USD million) for the above segments.
By Product | By Therapeutics | Vaccines | |
Parasiticides | |||
Anti-infectives | |||
Medical Feed Additives | |||
Other Therapeutics | |||
By Diagnostics | Immunodiagnostic Tests | ||
Molecular Diagnostics | |||
Diagnostic Imaging | |||
Clinical Chemistry | |||
Other Diagnostics | |||
By Animal Type | Dogs and Cats | ||
Horses | |||
Ruminants | |||
Swine | |||
Poultry | |||
Other Animal Types |
Canada Animal Health Care Market Research FAQs
How big is the Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market?
The Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market size is expected to reach USD 2.98 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 7.26% to reach USD 4.23 billion by 2030.
What is the current Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market size?
In 2025, the Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market size is expected to reach USD 2.98 billion.
Who are the key players in Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market?
Idexx Laboratories, Phibro Animal health, Virbac Corporation, Vetoquinol SA and Zoetis Animal Healthcare are the major companies operating in the Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market.
What years does this Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market size was estimated at USD 2.76 billion. The report covers the Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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Canada Veterinary Healthcare Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides comprehensive insights into the veterinary care sector. We combine expertise in animal health research with advanced analytics. Our extensive analysis covers the entire spectrum of veterinary healthcare. This includes animal hospitals, veterinary clinics, and veterinary medicine providers. The report examines crucial segments such as veterinary pharmaceuticals, veterinary diagnostics, and animal biotechnology. It also addresses emerging trends in veterinary imaging and animal therapeutics.
Stakeholders gain valuable insights through our detailed examination of veterinary services, veterinary supplies, and pet medicine markets. The analysis encompasses animal vaccines, veterinary equipment, and solutions for animal emergency care. Our report PDF, available for immediate download, provides in-depth coverage of pet healthcare trends, animal pharmaceutical developments, and advances in medical devices for animals. The research particularly emphasizes healthcare for companion animals and animal surgical procedures. It offers stakeholders actionable intelligence for strategic decision-making in the Canadian market.