Malaysia Pet Food Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence
The Malaysia pet food market size is USD 331.64 million in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 436.88 million by 2030, translating into a CAGR of 5.67%. Rising disposable incomes, steady urban migration, and a marked shift toward pet humanization continue to steer demand for premium and functional nutrition. Momentum remains strong even though manufacturers manage import reliance for key proteins and navigate halal certification audits under the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia. Growth opportunities are reinforced by digital retail expansion, domestic halal production capacity, and product innovation aimed at cats, which dominate household pet preferences.
Key Report Takeaways
- By product, food led with 67.3% revenue share in 2024, while pet nutraceuticals and supplements are projected to expand at an 11.8% CAGR through 2030.
- By pets, cats captured a 55.1% share in 2024, while the feline segment is also projected to post a 7.3% CAGR to 2030.
- By distribution channel, supermarkets and hypermarkets accounted for 39.7% of 2024 sales, while the online channel is forecast to grow at a 6.5% CAGR through 2030.
- The Malaysian pet food market is anticipated to exhibit a high level of consolidation, reaching 68.0% by 2024. Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), EBOS Group Limited, and General Mills Inc. are top players.
Malaysia Pet Food Market Trends and Insights
Drivers Impact Analysis
| Driver | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premiumization of cat food | +1.2% | National, Klang Valley and Johor Bahru | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| E-commerce penetration in tier-2 cities | +0.8% | Penang, Johor, Sabah | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Expansion of domestic halal-certified plants | +0.9% | Selangor and Johor | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Personalized nutrition algorithms | +0.6% | Urban tech-savvy households | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Rise of functional “food-as-medicine” SKUs | +0.7% | National veterinary networks | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Government pet food quality inspection | +0.4% | National | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Premiumization of Cat Food
Premium cat food formulations are reshaping Malaysia's pet nutrition landscape as urban households increasingly prioritize high-protein, grain-free options for their feline companions. Malaysian families now spend an average of MYR 200 (USD 44) monthly on cat care, with premium nutrition representing the largest expense category [1]Source: Department of Statistics Malaysia, “Household Expenditure Survey,” dosm.gov.my. The premiumization wave extends beyond basic nutrition to include functional ingredients like probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids, positioning Malaysia as a testing ground for innovative formulations before regional expansion. Regulatory compliance under JAKIM's halal certification framework adds complexity but also creates differentiation opportunities for brands meeting both premium quality and religious dietary standards.
E-commerce Penetration in Tier-2 Cities
Digital commerce platforms are democratizing access to specialized pet nutrition beyond Malaysia's traditional retail strongholds, with Shopee reporting significant growth in pet food sales across secondary urban centers. Malaysian consumers demonstrate a preference for mid-to-high price point products and larger packaging formats when purchasing online, indicating sophisticated buying behavior that extends beyond convenience. Same-day delivery services now reach cities like Ipoh, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu, eliminating geographic barriers that previously limited premium brand access. This expansion proves particularly significant for specialized categories like veterinary diets and functional treats, which require educational content and detailed product information that e-commerce platforms can provide more effectively than traditional retail.
Expansion of Domestic Halal-Certified Plants
Local manufacturing capacity for halal-certified pet food is expanding rapidly as companies recognize the dual benefits of cost reduction and religious compliance in Malaysia's predominantly Muslim market. Karangkraf's launch of the Tomkraf cat food brand in 2024, priced at RM 17.90 (USD 3.98) for 100% Malaysian-made formulations, demonstrates how local production can achieve competitive pricing while maintaining quality standards. The expansion of domestic capacity also supports the government's National Agrofood Policy 2021-2030, which prioritizes downstream processing and value-added manufacturing in the agricultural sector. These developments position Malaysia as a potential halal pet food export hub for Southeast Asian markets with similar religious dietary requirements.
Personalized Nutrition Algorithms
Technology-driven nutrition customization is emerging as a differentiating factor in Malaysia's competitive pet food landscape, with startups developing AI-powered recommendation engines for tailored feeding programs. MyPetsLibrary, a Malaysian pet-tech platform, integrates health monitoring data with nutritional algorithms to suggest breed-specific and age-appropriate feeding regimens. This technological approach addresses the growing sophistication of Malaysian pet owners who seek evidence-based nutrition solutions rather than generic formulations. The integration of DNA testing and health monitoring creates opportunities for subscription-based feeding programs that adjust formulations based on real-time health indicators and activity levels.
Restraints Impact Analysis
| Restraint | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import tariff volatility on meat inputs | -0.7% | National | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Limited cold-chain coverage outside Klang Valley | -0.5% | East Malaysia and rural peninsular states | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Stricter sustainability packaging rules | -0.3% | National | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Veterinarian talent shortage | -0.4% | Nationwide, rural focus | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Import Tariff Volatility on Meat Inputs
Fluctuating import duties on key protein ingredients create margin pressure for Malaysian pet food manufacturers, particularly affecting premium formulations that rely on specific meat meals and by-products. Malaysia applies ad valorem tariffs ranging from 0% to 60% on various feed ingredients, with preferential rates under Asia-Pacific Free Trade Area agreements covering approximately 99% of traded products [2]Source: Royal Malaysian Customs Department, “Import Tariff Schedule,” customs.gov.my. Protein-rich ingredients like fishmeal and specialized meat meals often fall outside preferential arrangements, creating cost volatility that manufacturers struggle to pass through to price-sensitive consumers. The situation intensifies during global supply disruptions, as seen during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, when poultry feed costs surged across Southeast Asia, directly impacting pet food input costs
Limited Cold-Chain Coverage Outside Klang Valley
Inadequate refrigerated logistics infrastructure beyond Malaysia's primary economic corridor constrains the distribution of wet pet food and fresh-frozen products, limiting market penetration in East Malaysia and rural Peninsular regions. Cold-chain coverage remains concentrated in the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor industrial corridors, creating spoilage risks and higher distribution costs for temperature-sensitive products reaching Sabah, Sarawak, and interior Peninsular states. This infrastructure gap particularly impacts premium wet food categories, which demonstrate higher profit margins but require consistent refrigeration from manufacturing through retail display. Universities Malaysia Sarawak and Universiti Malaysia Sabah research confirms that logistics costs for East Malaysia exceed 15% of product value due to geographic isolation and infrastructure limitations.
Segment Analysis
By Pet Food Product: Food Segment Drives Innovation
The Food segment's commanding 67.3% market share in 2024 reflects its fundamental role in Malaysian pet nutrition. Dry pet food dominates within this category, with kibbles representing the largest sub-segment due to their shelf stability and cost-effectiveness in Malaysia's tropical climate. Wet pet food shows strong growth potential despite cold-chain limitations, particularly in urban markets where convenience and palatability drive purchasing decisions. Within this segment, dry pet food holds a commanding position due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to fulfill the regular dietary needs of pets. The segment's growth is further supported by increasing awareness among pet owners regarding pet nutrition and the growing availability of various pet food brands and products.
Pet Nutraceuticals and Supplements emerge as the fastest-growing segment, with a 11.8% CAGR through 2030, driven by increasing awareness of preventive pet healthcare and the influence of veterinary recommendations on premium nutrition choices. The segment's expansion is further supported by the increasing trend of pet humanization and pet health concerns among pet parents, especially in urban areas. Pet owners are becoming increasingly conscious of their pets' health and well-being, resulting in a higher demand for specialized nutrition products. The availability of various nutraceutical forms, including supplements for immunity enhancement, joint health improvement, and digestive health support, is contributing to the segment's rapid growth.
Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
By Pets: Cats Lead Market Dynamics
Cats command 55.1% of the pet-focused market share in 2024, with the segment projected to grow at 7.3% CAGR through 2030, reflecting Malaysia's cultural affinity for feline companions and their suitability for urban living environments. This dominance stems from cats' lower maintenance requirements, smaller living space needs, and alignment with Islamic dietary principles that view cats as clean animals suitable for household companionship.
The cat segment drives premiumization trends, with Malaysian households increasingly investing in high-protein, grain-free formulations that mirror human nutrition consciousness trends. Functional cat foods targeting specific health concerns, such as urinary tract health and hairball control, show particularly strong growth, supported by increasing veterinary awareness and owner education initiatives.
By Distribution Channel: Traditional Retail Faces Digital Disruption
Supermarkets and Hypermarkets maintain a 39.7% distribution channel share in 2024, leveraging their extensive geographic coverage and consumer familiarity to dominate pet food sales across Malaysia. These traditional retailers benefit from impulse purchasing behavior and the ability to display bulk packaging formats that appeal to cost-conscious Malaysian consumers. Major chains, such as AEON, Lotus, MYDIN, and HeroMarket, have strengthened their pet food sections, offering extensive product selections from leading brands. These retailers utilize their strong bargaining power with manufacturers to secure better prices, enabling them to offer attractive discounts to customers while maintaining profitable margins.
Online Channel's projected 6.5% CAGR through 2030 signals accelerating digital adoption, particularly for specialized products and subscription-based feeding programs that traditional retail cannot efficiently support. E-commerce platforms like Shopee and Lazada have successfully expanded pet food categories beyond the Klang Valley, offering same-day delivery and educational content that enhances consumer decision-making. E-commerce platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and specialized pet food retailers have enhanced their digital infrastructure to provide seamless shopping experiences. The emergence of subscription-based services and specialized platforms like Petchef, offering customized meal plans designed by pet nutrition experts, has further accelerated this growth.
Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
Geography Analysis
Malaysia's pet food market exhibits distinct regional characteristics shaped by economic development patterns, infrastructure availability, and cultural preferences across Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. The Klang Valley economic corridor, encompassing Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, represents the largest market concentration with superior cold-chain infrastructure, higher disposable incomes, and greater access to premium pet nutrition products. This region drives premiumization trends and serves as the primary testing ground for new product launches and innovative feeding concepts. Johor's proximity to Singapore creates cross-border shopping patterns and exposure to international pet food brands, while Penang's urban density and expatriate population support premium and specialized diet categories.
East Malaysia, comprising Sabah and Sarawak, faces unique challenges, including higher logistics costs, limited cold-chain coverage, and geographic isolation that constrains product availability and increases retail prices. These states exhibit strong growth potential as infrastructure development progresses and urban centers, such as Kuching and Kota Kinabalu, expand their middle-class populations. The government's infrastructure development initiatives under the 12th Malaysia Plan prioritize connectivity improvements that could reduce distribution costs and expand market access for pet food manufacturers.
Rural and secondary urban areas across both Peninsular and East Malaysia represent underserved markets with significant growth potential as e-commerce platforms expand delivery networks and local distributors develop specialized pet retail capabilities. The National Agrofood Policy 2021-2030 supports rural economic development and agricultural diversification that could create new opportunities for locally-sourced pet food ingredients and manufacturing [3]Source: Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries, “National Agrofood Policy,” kpkm.gov.my.
Competitive Landscape
The Malaysian pet food market is expected to exhibit a high level of consolidation, with 68.0% market share in 2024. These multinational Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), EBOS Group Limited, and General Mills Inc., are leveraging their extensive research capabilities, established brand portfolios, and sophisticated distribution networks to maintain their market positions. The presence of local players is limited, with most domestic companies focusing on specific market segments or operating as distributors for international brands. The market structure favors companies with significant financial resources and established supply chain networks, creating substantial barriers to entry for new players.
The industry has witnessed several strategic acquisitions and partnerships aimed at expanding its portfolio and increasing market penetration. Global players are actively pursuing vertical integration strategies, acquiring local distribution networks and manufacturing facilities to strengthen their presence in the Malaysian market. This consolidation trend is expected to continue as companies seek to enhance their product offerings and achieve economies of scale through strategic mergers and acquisitions.
Success in the Malaysian pet food market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences. Incumbent players must focus on developing premium products with specialized nutritional benefits while maintaining competitive pricing strategies. Expanding distribution networks, particularly in emerging online channels and specialty stores, is crucial for maintaining market share. Companies need to invest in local manufacturing capabilities and research facilities to better understand and serve regional preferences while optimizing operational costs.
Malaysia Pet Food Industry Leaders
-
Mars, Incorporated
-
Nestle (Purina)
-
Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.)
-
EBOS Group Limited
-
General Mills Inc.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Recent Industry Developments
- October 2025: Big Idea Ventures and Mars Petcare, together with partnered AAK, Bühler, and Givaudan, have selected three pioneering startups for the Next Generation Pet Food Program. The initiative identifies and accelerates breakthrough technologies in biotech-based ingredients, essential nutrients, and circular feed innovations, shaping a more sustainable and resilient future for pet nutrition. This year’s program attracted 165 applications from 39 countries, nearly half from Asia, reflecting the growing global momentum behind sustainable food development and pet care innovation.
- 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, liver, salmon, and shrimp flavors for adult cats.
Malaysia 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