Europe Cat Food Market Size and Share

Europe Cat Food Market (2025 - 2030)
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Europe Cat Food Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The Europe cat food market size stands at USD 22.40 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 28.99 billion by 2030, reflecting a steady 5.30% CAGR over the forecast period. Strong demand for premium, human-grade recipes, the rapid rise of functional formulas, and sustained cat ownership growth throughout the region underpin this trajectory. Manufacturers keep expanding local capacity to limit cross-border costs and to align with tightening European Union sustainability rules. At the same time, e-commerce adoption deepens customer engagement through subscription models and data-driven personalization, enabling brands to offset inflationary pressure with value-added services. Regulatory incentives for alternative proteins further diversify ingredient sourcing while strengthening environmental credentials. 

Key Report Takeaways

  • By product type, Food captured 68.9% of the Europe cat food market share in 2024, while Nutraceuticals and Supplements are forecast to expand at an 8.0% CAGR through 2030.
  • By distribution channel, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets led with 44.3% of the Europe cat food market revenue share in 2024, while the Online Channel is projected to advance at a 6.5% CAGR between 2025 and 2030.
  • By country, Germany accounted for 23.3% of the Europe cat food market size in 2024, and Spain is anticipated to post the fastest growth at a 6.9% CAGR to 2030.
  • The Europe cat food market exhibits a fragmented competitive landscape dominated by global conglomerates like Mars Incorporated, Nestle S.A. (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), Archer Daniels Midland, and Affinity Petcare S.A., accounting for a share of 22.9% in 2024, with diverse product portfolios spanning multiple pet care segments.

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: Nutraceuticals Drive Premium Category Expansio

The Food segment commands 68.9% of the Europe cat food market share in 2024, generating the majority of category volume through dry and wet formulations that serve daily nutrition needs across Europe's 129 million cats. This substantial market share is primarily driven by cat feed being considered a fundamental product for cats, providing them with essential nutrition and a well-balanced diet. Within this segment, wet food holds a larger share of about 53% compared to dry food, as cats naturally prefer wet food due to its higher moisture content and stronger aroma that appeals to their highly developed sense of smell. The segment's strong performance is further supported by the increasing trend of pet humanization, where owners are increasingly focused on providing high-quality, nutritious feline food options for their cats. Major companies in the region are actively developing innovative food products with natural ingredients and specialized formulations to meet the diverse nutritional needs of cats at different life stages.

Nutraceuticals and Supplements emerge as the fastest-growing segment at 8.0% CAGR during 2025-2030, reflecting increasing pet owner sophistication and willingness to invest in preventive health solutions. This remarkable growth is driven by increasing awareness among pet owners about the importance of preventive healthcare and the benefits of supplemental nutrition for their cats. The segment encompasses various products, including omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, vitamins and minerals, and proteins and peptides, each serving specific health functions. The growth is particularly strong in markets like Germany and the United Kingdom, where pet owners are increasingly investing in premium nutritional supplements to support their cats' overall health and well-being. The trend is further supported by veterinarians actively recommending these products as part of preventive healthcare routines, contributing to the expansion of the cat nutritional supplements market.

Europe Cat Food Market: Market Share by Product Type
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By Distribution Channel: E-commerce Transforms Retail Landscape

Supermarkets and Hypermarkets maintain a 44.3% of the Europe Cat Food Market distribution share in 2024, leveraging convenience and competitive pricing to serve mainstream consumer segments seeking everyday nutrition solutions. These retail establishments serve as primary destinations for pet owners due to their ability to offer a comprehensive shopping experience where customers can purchase cat food alongside their regular groceries. The segment's leadership position is strengthened by competitive pricing strategies, frequent promotional campaigns, and the availability of a wide range of cat food brands, flavors, and formulations. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Carrefour, Auchan, Lidl, and Aldi have established strong positions in the cat food retail space by maintaining extensive product portfolios that include both premium and economy brands, catering to diverse consumer preferences and budgets.

Online Channel acceleration at 6.5% CAGR during 2025-2030 reflects fundamental shifts in pet care purchasing behavior, particularly among younger demographics and premium product segments. Online channels have gained significant traction by offering convenience and extensive product selection, while convenience stores serve as important points for emergency purchases and impulse buying. Other channels, including veterinary clinics, pet grooming centers, and direct-to-consumer sales, contribute to the market's accessibility and convenience for pet owners. Each of these channels plays a unique role in meeting diverse consumer needs, from providing specialized products and expert advice to offering convenient shopping solutions for pet owners across different locations and preferences.

Europe Cat Food Market: Market Share by Distribution Channel
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Geography Analysis

Germany commands 23.3% country share in 2024, representing Europe's largest and most mature market. The country's leadership position is primarily driven by its large cat population, which significantly influences the demand for various cat food products. German pet owners demonstrate a strong preference for premium and super-premium cat food brands that offer formulations with natural, gluten-free, single-protein, and functional ingredients. The market is characterized by a robust distribution network, with both traditional retail channels and emerging e-commerce platforms playing crucial roles. The country's pet food manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing specialized products that cater to specific dietary requirements and health conditions of cats. 

Spain emerges as the fastest-growing country at 6.9% CAGR during 2025-2030. Spain shows strong potential for premium product segments, while Eastern European markets are witnessing rapid modernization of their pet food retail infrastructure. Consumer preferences in these markets are gradually shifting towards higher-quality commercial pet food products, driven by increasing awareness of pet nutrition and health. 

The trend of pet humanization is becoming increasingly prevalent across these markets, though at different rates and intensities. Local manufacturers and international brands are adapting their strategies to meet the specific needs and preferences of each market, while also introducing innovative products that cater to emerging consumer demands.

Competitive Landscape

The European cat food market exhibits a fragmented competitive landscape dominated by global conglomerates like Mars Incorporated, Nestle S.A. (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), Archer Daniels Midland, and Affinity Petcare S.A., accounting for a share of 22.9% in 2024, with diverse product portfolios spanning multiple pet care segments. These major players leverage their extensive research and development capabilities, established brand recognition, and robust distribution networks to maintain their market positions. While global companies lead the market, several regional specialists have carved out significant niches by focusing on specific product categories or geographical regions, particularly in premium and natural pet food segments. In September 2023, Buffalo's rapid European scaling through premium natural positioning, while acquisition activity accelerates consolidation, as demonstrated by Vafo Group's Austrian PetCo purchase, creating a combined EUR 600 million turnover[3]Source: Petfood Industry, “Vafo Group acquires Austrian PetCo,” petfoodindustry.com .

The market has witnessed significant consolidation through mergers and acquisitions, as larger companies seek to expand their product portfolios and geographical presence. These strategic moves have been particularly focused on acquiring companies with strong positions in natural and premium pet food segments, as well as those with established direct-to-consumer channels. The trend toward consolidation has been driven by the need to achieve economies of scale, enhance innovation capabilities, and strengthen market presence in key European regions.

Success in the European cat food market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate across product formulations, packaging, and distribution channels. Incumbents must focus on developing premium and specialized products while maintaining strong relationships with veterinarians and pet specialty retailers. Companies need to invest in research and development to create products that address specific health concerns and nutritional requirements, while also expanding their e-commerce capabilities to meet changing consumer shopping preferences.

Europe Cat Food Industry Leaders

  1. Mars, Incorporated

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

  3. Affinity Petcare S.A

  4. Archer Daniels Midland

  5. Nestle S.A. (Purina)

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Europe Cat 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 including cats with sensitive stomachs and skin lines. They contain vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
  • May 2023: Nestle S.A. (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.
  • May 2023: Virbac S.A. acquired its distributor (GS Partners) in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, which became Virbac's 35th subsidiary. This new subsidiary allows Virbac to expand its presence more in these countries.

Table of Contents for Europe Cat Food Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

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

2. REPORT OFFERS

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS

4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • 4.1 Pet Population
  • 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 & Distribution Channel Analysis
  • 5.4 Regulatory Framework
  • 5.5 Market Drivers
    • 5.5.1 Premiumization of human-grade cat food
    • 5.5.2 Growing European cat ownership base expands
    • 5.5.3 Omnichannel retail expansion Accelerates
    • 5.5.4 Demand for functional/condition-specific formulas
    • 5.5.5 Europe taxonomy incentives for sustainable proteins
    • 5.5.6 Post-Brexit tariff harmonization
  • 5.6 Market Restraints
    • 5.6.1 Inflation-driven trading down
    • 5.6.2 Stringent European feed-additive approvals
    • 5.6.3 Wallet share erosion from insect-based pet food
    • 5.6.4 Urban market saturation in Western Europe

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 & 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 Obesity Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.7 Derma Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.8 Other Veterinary Diets
  • 6.2 Distribution Channel
    • 6.2.1 Convenience Stores
    • 6.2.2 Online Channel
    • 6.2.3 Specialty Stores
    • 6.2.4 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 6.2.5 Other Channels
  • 6.3 Country
    • 6.3.1 Germany
    • 6.3.2 France
    • 6.3.3 Spain
    • 6.3.4 Italy
    • 6.3.5 United Kingdom
    • 6.3.6 Poland
    • 6.3.7 Russia
    • 6.3.8 Netherlands
    • 6.3.9 Rest of Europe

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 S.A. (Purina)
    • 7.6.3 Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.)
    • 7.6.4 General Mills Inc.
    • 7.6.5 Affinity Petcare S.A
    • 7.6.6 Archer Daniels Midland
    • 7.6.7 Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.)
    • 7.6.8 Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)
    • 7.6.9 heristo aktiengesellschaft
    • 7.6.10 Virbac S.A.
    • 7.6.11 Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Schell & Kampeter, Inc.)
    • 7.6.12 MPM Products Ltd. (3i Group plc)
    • 7.6.13 Deuerer GmbH
    • 7.6.14 Partner in Pet Food Hungária Kft. (Cinven Partners LLP)
    • 7.6.15 Farmina Pet Foods Holding B.V. (Farmina Pet Foods Holding B.V.)

8. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR PET FOOD CEOS

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Europe Cat Food Market Report Scope

Food, Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements, Pet Treats, and Pet Veterinary Diets are covered as segments by Pet Food Product. Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Specialty Stores, and Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are covered as segments by the Distribution Channel. France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom are covered as segments by Country.

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
Obesity Diets
Derma Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
Distribution Channel
Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
Country
Germany
France
Spain
Italy
United Kingdom
Poland
Russia
Netherlands
Rest of Europe
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
Obesity Diets
Derma Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
Distribution Channel Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
Country Germany
France
Spain
Italy
United Kingdom
Poland
Russia
Netherlands
Rest of Europe
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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
research-methodology
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