India Pet Food Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence
The Indian pet food market size stood at USD 0.87 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.51 billion by 2030, reflecting a 11.58% CAGR during the forecast period. The market captures the steady shift from homemade diets toward branded nutrition as urbanization increases disposable income, household convenience needs, and awareness of balanced nutrition. Uptake accelerates, even though only 10% of owners feed their pets packaged food exclusively, meaning most households remain addressable customers. Volume gains are amplified by strong digital channel momentum, domestic manufacturing scale, and growing demand for life-stage formulations that mirror human wellness trends. Cost efficiencies from local extrusion plants are steadily reducing retail prices, making premium nutrition accessible to mid-income households while protecting manufacturer margins.
Key Report Takeaways
- By product category, food led with a 76.7% revenue share in 2024, and is projected to grow at a 12.4% CAGR through 2030.
- By pet type, dogs accounted for 92.2% of the India pet food market share in 2024, and are forecast to expand at 11.9% CAGR to 2030.
- By distribution channel, specialty stores held a 32.9% share in 2024, while specialty stores platforms are poised to grow at a 14.5% CAGR through 2030.
- The Indian pet food market exhibits a consolidated structure, commanding over 57.9% of the combined market share, dominated by the top five players, including Mars, Incorporated, Nestle S.A. (Purina), Drools Pet Food Pvt. Ltd., Charoen Pokphand Group, and Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.).
India Pet Food Market Trends and Insights
Drivers Impact Analysis
| Driver | (~)% Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surging pet ownership in urban households | +2.8% | Metro cities and Tier-1 urban centers | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Rising disposable income and pet humanization | + 2.4% | North and West India urban markets | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Expansion of e-commerce and quick-commerce delivery | +2.1% | Metro cities with 10-minute delivery coverage | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Domestic extrusion capacity expansion lowers retail prices | +1.9% | National, with early gains in manufacturing hubs | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Veterinary telehealth boosts prescription-diet adoption | +1.2% | Urban centers with digital infrastructure | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Prospective GST reclassification cuts effective tax burden | +1.4% | National, particularly benefiting Tier-2/3 cities | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Surging Pet Ownership in Urban Households
Post-pandemic pet adoption has fundamentally altered household dynamics in Indian metros, where shrinking family sizes and apartment living create ideal conditions for companion animal ownership. In 2024, the pet population has grown to over 31 million dogs and 2.44 million cats, with urban households driving the majority of this expansion[1]Source: ET Bureau, “India’s pet population crosses 31 million dogs,” economictimes.indiatimes.com. Nuclear families increasingly treat pets as family members, leading to higher per-pet spending on nutrition and healthcare. This demographic shift creates a compounding effect where each new pet owner becomes a long-term customer with predictable purchasing patterns. Urban pet ownership density has reached levels where veterinary services and pet retail infrastructure can achieve profitable scale, creating a self-reinforcing ecosystem that supports continued market expansion.
Rising Disposable Income and Pet Humanization
India's expanding middle class, with rising per-capita disposable income, has transformed pet care from basic sustenance to comprehensive wellness programs that mirror human health trends. Pet humanization is evident in purchasing decisions, where owners seek products with human-grade ingredients, organic certifications, and specialized formulations tailored to life stages and health conditions. This behavioral shift drives premiumization across categories, with gourmet offerings including Atlantic salmon, boneless duck, and even pet-safe bakery items gaining acceptance. The willingness to spend on pet nutrition correlates directly with household income levels, creating distinct market segments where premium brands can command higher margins.
Expansion of E-commerce and Quick-Commerce Delivery
Digital commerce platforms have eliminated geographic and availability barriers that historically constrained access to specialty pet food, and pet owners now purchase food online. Quick-commerce platforms like Zepto have expanded SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) counts to over 6,000 items, enabling broad assortment coverage that includes higher-value pet food categories. These platforms achieve average order values exceeding INR 450 (approximately USD 5.07), with pet food contributing to the improvement in AOV through larger pack sizes and premium positioning. The 10-minute delivery model particularly benefits repeat-purchase categories, such as pet food, where convenience drives customer loyalty and reduces churn from traditional retail channels.
Domestic Extrusion Capacity Expansion Lowers Retail Prices
Manufacturing localization by major players has created a supply-side revolution that reduces import dependency and enables competitive pricing for mass market penetration. Mars, Incorporated Petcare's USD 96 million (INR 800 crore) total investment, including a USD 60 million (INR 500 crore) second-phase expansion, doubles domestic production capacity and eliminates foreign exchange volatility from pricing structures. Domestic extrusion facilities enable smaller pack sizes that align with Indian consumer preferences, where 85% of purchases are under 1.2 kilograms, making premium nutrition accessible through trial-friendly formats. Local manufacturing also facilitates compliance with FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) regulations and enables rapid product iteration based on regional taste preferences and nutritional requirements.
Restraints Impact Analysis
| Restraint | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| High price sensitivity in Tier 2/3 cities | -1.8% | Tier-2/3 cities and rural markets | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Low packaged-food penetration vs homemade diets | -2.1% | National, particularly rural and semi-urban areas | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Dependence on imported wet food and specialty ingredients | -1.2% | National, affecting premium segment availability | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Fragmented regulatory oversight slows feed-standard rollout | -0.9% | National, impacting new product launches | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
High Price Sensitivity in Tier-2/3 Cities
Value-focused consumers in smaller cities impose natural ceiling effects on premium product penetration, constraining market expansion beyond metropolitan areas where disposable income levels support higher per-unit spending. Price elasticity remains high in these markets, where pet ownership exists but purchasing power limits adoption of packaged nutrition solutions. The challenge intensifies as distribution costs to tier-2/3 cities often exceed metropolitan delivery expenses, creating margin pressure that prevents aggressive pricing strategies. This geographic constraint forces manufacturers to develop India-specific value propositions that balance nutritional adequacy with affordability, often requiring reformulation and packaging innovations to achieve target price points while maintaining profitability.
Low Packaged-Food Penetration vs Homemade Diets
Cultural preferences for homemade pet nutrition create persistent competition for packaged alternatives, with only few pet owners feeding manufactured food exclusively. Traditional feeding practices using kitchen scraps and locally-sourced ingredients remain deeply embedded in pet care routines, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas where veterinary guidance on nutritional requirements is limited. The educational barrier requires significant marketing investment to demonstrate the health benefits of balanced commercial nutrition over homemade alternatives. This penetration challenge limits volume growth potential and necessitates sustained consumer education campaigns that can extend customer acquisition timelines and increase marketing costs per converted customer.
Segment Analysis
By Pet Food Product: Food Dominance Drives Volume Growth
Food products maintain a 76.7% market share in 2024, reflecting their essential nature and repeat-purchase characteristics that create predictable revenue streams for manufacturers. Dry pet food represents the largest sub-segment within food products, benefiting from extended shelf life and cost-effective distribution models that enable mass market penetration. Wet pet food commands premium pricing but faces supply constraints due to import dependency and cold chain requirements.
Food products emerge as the fastest-growing segment, with a 12.4% CAGR through 2030. The segment's growth is further supported by the rising awareness among pet owners regarding the importance of proper pet nutrition and the shift towards premium and specialized food options. Kibbles remain the most popular choice within dry pet food due to their affordability, convenience, and ability to meet pets' dietary requirements, while wet pet food maintains its appeal due to its high moisture content and palatability.
Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
By Pet Type: Dogs Lead While Cats Accelerate
Dogs command 92.2% market share in 2024, reflecting their dominant position in Indian pet ownership patterns and higher per-pet food consumption compared to cats. The dog food segment benefits from established feeding routines and owner familiarity with commercial nutrition options, creating stable demand patterns that support inventory planning and distribution efficiency. The segment's growth is driven by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness about pet nutrition among dog owners. The demand for premium dog food products, including dry pet food, specialized treats, and veterinary diets, has significantly contributed to the segment's dominance.
The segment is projected to maintain its strong growth trajectory, with an estimated CAGR of around 11.9% through 2030, driven by rising pet ownership rates and an increasing preference for commercial pet food products. The expanding distribution networks and the availability of diverse product options through various channels, including specialty stores and online platforms, have further strengthened the segment's position.
By Distribution Channel: Specialty Stores Face Digital Disruption
Specialty stores are expected to maintain a 32.9% distribution channel share in 2024, leveraging their product expertise and customer relationships to enable premium positioning and consultative selling approaches. These stores have successfully positioned themselves as one-stop destinations for pet owners by offering expert guidance, personalized product recommendations, and a wide range of premium and specialized pet food options. The segment is experiencing remarkable growth and is projected to expand, supported by the increasing trend of pet ecosystem stores and the rising demand for specialized pet diets.
Specialty store platforms emerge as the fastest-growing channel, with a 14.5% CAGR through 2030, fundamentally altering purchase patterns through convenience and a 10-minute delivery promise. Leading specialty store chains, such as Heads Up For Tails, with 75 retail locations across India, are revolutionizing the pet retail landscape by combining product offerings with value-added services, including pet grooming and veterinary consultations. The success of specialty stores can be attributed to their customer-centric approach, knowledgeable staff, and ability to stock both mainstream and niche pet food brands, making them the preferred choice for discerning pet owners who prioritize quality and expert guidance in their purchasing decisions.
Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
Geography Analysis
West India commands the largest regional market share in 2024, leveraging Mumbai and Pune's established pet ownership culture and higher disposable incomes that support the adoption of premium products. The region benefits from well-developed retail infrastructure and early adoption of e-commerce platforms, creating multiple touchpoints for consumer engagement and brand building. Manufacturing presence by major players like Mars, Incorporated, and Royal Canin in Maharashtra provides supply chain advantages and enables rapid product launches. The regulatory environment in West India aligns with the implementation of FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) standards, ensuring product quality and safety compliance that builds consumer confidence in packaged pet nutrition solutions.
North India represents the second-largest regional market, driven by the urban pet population in Delhi NCR and the increasing acceptance of commercial pet nutrition among affluent households. The region exhibits strong growth potential as tier-2 cities, such as Jaipur and Chandigarh, develop pet retail infrastructure and veterinary services that support the adoption of packaged food. Government policy initiatives focused on animal welfare and pet registration in major cities create awareness that translates into increased demand for commercial nutrition. The presence of corporate headquarters and high-income demographics in Gurgaon and Noida particularly favors premium segment growth, while traditional markets in Delhi maintain mass segment volumes.
South India emerges as the fastest-growing region through 2030, propelled by Bengaluru and Chennai's technology sector prosperity and lifestyle changes that favor pet companionship in nuclear families. The region demonstrates higher online penetration rates and early adoption of subscription-based pet food delivery models that create customer loyalty and predictable revenue streams. Cultural acceptance of vegetarian pet food options in South India creates unique product opportunities that differentiate from other regions.
Competitive Landscape
Global Leaders Dominate Indian Pet Market
The Indian pet food market exhibits a consolidated structure, commanding over 57.9% combined market share, dominated by the top five players, including Mars, Incorporated, Nestle S.A. (Purina), Drools Pet Food Pvt. Ltd., Charoen Pokphand Group, and Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.). Local players, while present, primarily operate in specific regional markets or focus on particular product segments. The market demonstrates a mix of diversified conglomerates that offer pet food as part of their broader portfolio and specialized pet care companies focused exclusively on pet nutrition and wellness products.
Domestic startups, including Supertails and Pawfectly Made, apply direct-to-consumer models that bypass wholesale margins. Their digital storefronts utilize algorithmic recommendations and bundled services, such as grooming vouchers, to increase basket sizes. Godrej Consumer Products plans to invest USD 60 million (INR 500 crore) over five years to enter the segment, relying on its existing FMCG supply chains and the Godrej Agrovet feed mill network [2]Source: Dinesh Sesa Sen, “Godrej Consumer enters pet care,” ndtvprofit.com. Nestlé S.A. (Purina)’s minority investment in Drools signals heightened multinational interest and provides capital for capacity upgrades[3]Source: SiliconIndia News Desk, “Nestlé invests in Drools,” siliconindia.com.
Success in the Indian pet food market requires a comprehensive understanding of local pet ownership patterns and consumer preferences. Companies need to focus on developing products that cater to the specific nutritional requirements of different pet breeds while maintaining competitive pricing. Building strong relationships with veterinarians and pet care professionals is crucial as they significantly influence purchase decisions. Establishing an omnichannel presence across specialty stores, supermarkets, and e-commerce platforms is essential to reach diverse customer segments. Companies must also invest in consumer education about the benefits of commercial pet food over home-cooked alternatives.
India Pet Food Industry Leaders
-
Mars, Incorporated
-
Drools Pet Food Pvt. Ltd.
-
Charoen Pokphand Group.
-
Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.)
-
Nestle S.A. (Purina)
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Recent Industry Developments
- May 2025: Nestlé S.A. (Purina) made a minority financial investment in Indian pet food unicorn Drools, marking the global food giant's first strategic investment in India's pet care sector while maintaining Drools' operational independence.
- 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.
- 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.
India 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.
| 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 |
| Cats |
| Dogs |
| Other Pets |
| 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 & 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 | |||||
| Pets | Cats | ||||
| Dogs | |||||
| Other Pets | |||||
| Distribution Channel | Convenience Stores | ||||
| Online Channel | |||||
| Specialty Stores | |||||
| Supermarkets/Hypermarkets | |||||
| Other Channels | |||||
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 |
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