Study Period | 2017 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 7.84 Billion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 9.09 Billion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 2.99 % |
Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
United Kingdom Pet Food Market Analysis
The United Kingdom Pet Food Market size is estimated at 7.84 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 9.09 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 2.99% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The United Kingdom pet food industry is experiencing a significant transformation driven by changing consumer preferences and retail dynamics. The pet population in the country reached a remarkable 38.4 million in 2022, creating a substantial consumer base for pet food market size products. Traditional retail channels are evolving to meet changing consumer needs, with major retailers expanding their presence, exemplified by Tesco's operation of 2,839 stores across the United Kingdom in 2023. The retail landscape is becoming increasingly competitive as stores focus on offering premium and specialized pet food products alongside regular groceries.
The industry is witnessing a notable shift towards omnichannel distribution strategies, with online channels gaining significant traction. Online platforms have emerged as a crucial distribution channel, accounting for 25.2% of the UK pet food market in 2022. This shift is driven by the convenience of home delivery, competitive pricing, and the ability to access a wider range of products. Retailers are responding by strengthening their digital presence and implementing integrated online-offline strategies to enhance customer experience and reach.
Product innovation and premiumization are reshaping the market landscape, with manufacturers focusing on developing specialized nutrition solutions. Major industry players are actively launching new products to meet evolving consumer demands, as evidenced by Mars Incorporated's introduction of new Pedigree Multivitamins in March 2023, featuring formulations developed with the Waltham Petcare Science Institute team. The industry is seeing increased emphasis on natural ingredients, specialized diets, and functional benefits in pet food products.
The market structure continues to evolve with pet food and treats collectively representing 86.3% of the pet food market share in 2022, indicating strong consumer preference for commercial pet food products. The distribution network is becoming more sophisticated, with supermarkets and specialty stores expanding their pet food sections to include premium brands and specialized nutrition products. This evolution is accompanied by an increased focus on product education and consumer awareness, with retailers and manufacturers investing in informative marketing campaigns and in-store displays to help pet owners make informed purchasing decisions.
United Kingdom Pet Food Market Trends
Increased people’s preference to adopt cats in urban areas as they require less space, affordability, and lower maintenance requirements
- Cat adoption as pets has been increasing in the United Kingdom for the past five years, and the increase in the number of cats as pets in the country can be attributed to a rise in the need for companionship during the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing urbanization. They can also be kept indoors without feeling cooped up. These benefits helped the cat population increase by 69.3% between 2019 and 2022.
- In the United Kingdom, only one region has more cats as pets than dogs. In London, cat ownership was the highest in the country in 2022, accounting for 61% of the pet parents in the city. London has the highest national share of cats adopted because of their affordability and lower maintenance requirements. Most people live in small apartments and houses, which are better suited for cats than dogs. The majority of the cats adopted in the country live in urban areas. People prefer to adopt cats in urban areas because they require less space than dogs and do not need to be taken on walks, which is difficult in busy cities such as London. Cats are relatively quiet creatures, which is required while living in flats, making them a preferred choice for pet parents.
- There is a high potential for the growth of the cat population in the country, with 250,000 stray cats in the urban areas of the country that can be adopted in the coming years. This will help increase the pet population and the demand for cat food products during the forecast period.
- The rising cat population due to increasing urbanization, lower maintenance, and the potential of adopting more cats in the future are anticipated to help in the growth of the pet food market in the country.
The growing premiumization and demand for high-quality natural pet foods are driving pet expenditure in the United Kingdom
- In the United Kingdom, there has been a consistent upward trend in pet owners' spending on various pet products. Between 2019 and 2022, there was a substantial increase of about 13.3% in pet expenditure. This growth can be attributed to the expanding pet population in the country, which rose from 21.5 million in 2019 to 38.4 million in 2022. The growing trend of pet humanization has resulted in a higher demand for premium products, including natural and grain-free pet foods.
- Between 2019 and 2022, there was an increase in pet expenditure in the country. The number of pet owners spending on pet food annually on dogs rose by about 23.5%, while spending on cats increased by about 23.2%, and other pet animals saw an increase of about 9.3%. The increase in expenditure on dogs and cats was nearly equal as the population of dogs and cats in the country was similar, with 12.9 million and 12.7 million, respectively, as of 2022. However, the average spending by pet owners on dogs was about 8.8% higher than the average spending on cats in the same year. This is mainly due to the larger size of dogs, which require more food than cats.
- Offline retail channels such as pet shops, vet clinics, and supermarkets are the preferred distribution channels for purchasing pet food products in the country. However, e-commerce has gained popularity recently, particularly due to the pandemic. Pets at Home is one of the leading pet food retailers in the country and operates through more than 452 stores. Growing awareness of the benefits of high-quality pet food and the increasing premiumization of pet food are projected to continue driving pet expenditure in the country.
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- Adoption from animal shelters and rescue organizations and providing companionship are increasing the dog population
- Low maintenance and other pets occupying limited space increased the adoption of other pets
Segment Analysis: PET FOOD PRODUCT
Food Segment in UK Pet Food Market
The food segment dominates the United Kingdom pet food products industry, accounting for approximately 74% of the total market value in 2024. This substantial pet food market share is primarily driven by the growing number of pet adoptions and changing consumer preferences toward commercial pet food products. Pet owners are increasingly choosing dry and wet pet food market products that are blended with functional ingredients to ensure optimal nutrition for their pets. The segment's strong performance is further supported by the rising trend of pet humanization, where owners treat their pets as family members and prioritize high-quality nutrition. Major retailers and supermarket chains across the UK maintain extensive pet food sections, offering a wide variety of options including premium brands, grain-free alternatives, and specialized formulations for different life stages and breeds.

Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements Segment in UK Pet Food Market
The pet nutraceuticals/supplements segment is experiencing remarkable growth in the UK pet food market, projected to expand at a CAGR of approximately 10% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is driven by increasing awareness among pet owners about preventive healthcare and the importance of supplemental nutrition. The segment's expansion is particularly notable in products containing vitamins and minerals, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are gaining popularity for their various health benefits. Pet owners are increasingly recognizing the role of supplements in maintaining their pets' overall well-being, including joint health, digestive function, and immune system support. The trend is further strengthened by veterinarians' recommendations and the growing availability of innovative supplement formulations through various distribution channels.
Remaining Segments in Pet Food Product Market
The pet treats and veterinary diets segments play crucial roles in completing the UK pet food market landscape. Pet treats serve multiple purposes beyond simple indulgence, including training rewards, dental health maintenance, and supplementary nutrition. These products are increasingly incorporating functional ingredients and natural formulations to appeal to health-conscious pet owners. Meanwhile, the veterinary diets segment addresses specific health conditions and dietary requirements, offering specialized nutrition for pets with various medical conditions. Both segments benefit from the ongoing premiumization trend in the premium pet food industry, with manufacturers focusing on high-quality ingredients and targeted health benefits to meet evolving consumer demands.
Segment Analysis: PETS
Dogs Segment in UK Pet Food Market
The dogs segment continues to dominate the UK dog food market, commanding approximately 44% market share in 2024, representing a value of USD 3.4 billion. This significant market position is primarily attributed to the large dog population in the United Kingdom, with dogs being the most commonly owned pets. The segment's strength is further reinforced by the higher per capita consumption of pet food by dogs compared to other pets, as well as the increasing trend of pet humanization where owners are willing to spend more on premium and specialized dog food products. The segment's robust performance is also supported by the wide range of available products, including dry food, wet food, treats, and specialized veterinary diets, catering to various breeds, ages, and health conditions.
Dogs Segment Growth in UK Pet Food Market
The dogs segment is projected to maintain its market leadership with strong growth, expected to expand at a CAGR of approximately 3% during 2024-2029. This growth trajectory is driven by several key factors, including the increasing adoption of commercial pet food products over home-cooked alternatives, rising awareness about pet health and nutrition, and the growing demand for premium and specialized dog food products. The segment's growth is further supported by innovations in product formulations, including grain-free options, natural ingredients, and functional additives that address specific health concerns. Additionally, the expanding range of distribution channels, particularly the rise of e-commerce platforms, is making dog food products more accessible to pet owners across the country.
Remaining Segments in Pet Segmentation
The cats and other pets segments form significant portions of the UK pet food market, each serving distinct consumer needs and preferences. The cats segment maintains its position as the second-largest category, driven by the growing cat population in urban areas and increasing demand for specialized feline nutrition products. The other pets segment, which includes birds, fish, and small mammals, represents a diverse market with unique nutritional requirements and specialized product formulations. Both segments benefit from the overall trend of pet humanization and the increasing focus on pet health and wellness, contributing to the market's diversity and comprehensive product offerings.
Segment Analysis: DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Segment in UK Pet Food Market
Supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the UK pet food distribution landscape, holding approximately 34% market share in 2024. This channel's prominence is driven by major retail chains like Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and Waitrose, which operate extensive networks of stores throughout the United Kingdom. These retailers have dedicated pet sections offering a comprehensive range of products, from standard pet food to premium brands. The success of supermarkets and hypermarkets can be attributed to their ability to provide a one-stop shopping experience, allowing pet owners to purchase pet food alongside their regular grocery shopping. The channel's strength is further enhanced by competitive pricing strategies, regular promotional offers, and the availability of both mainstream and premium pet food brands. Additionally, these retailers maintain strong relationships with leading pet food competitors, ensuring consistent product availability and diverse selection across different price points and categories.
Online Channel Segment in UK Pet Food Market
The online channel is experiencing remarkable growth in the UK pet food market, projected to expand at approximately 4% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This growth is being driven by the increasing digitalization of retail and changing consumer preferences towards convenient shopping options. Major e-commerce platforms like Monster Pet Supplies, Zooplus, Pets at Home, Chewy, Amazon, and Fetch are continuously enhancing their digital capabilities and expanding their product offerings. The channel's growth is supported by features such as auto-replenishment services, personalized recommendations, and competitive pricing strategies. Online retailers are also investing in efficient delivery systems and user-friendly interfaces to improve the overall shopping experience. The segment's expansion is further fueled by the integration of advanced technologies, mobile shopping applications, and the ability to offer detailed product information and customer reviews, making it easier for pet owners to make informed purchasing decisions.
Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel
The other distribution channels in the UK pet food market include specialty stores, convenience stores, and various other retail formats such as veterinary clinics, pet shelters, and feed stores. Specialty stores stand out for their expert staff, personalized service, and comprehensive product knowledge, making them particularly attractive to pet owners seeking specific dietary solutions or premium products. Convenience stores serve as quick-access points for pet food purchases, though they typically offer a more limited selection. Veterinary clinics and pet shelters play a crucial role in distributing specialized pet food products, particularly prescription diets and therapeutic formulations. These channels collectively contribute to creating a diverse and accessible pet food retail environment, each serving distinct consumer needs and preferences in the market.
United Kingdom Pet Food Industry Overview
Top Companies in United Kingdom Pet Food Market
The leading companies in the UK pet food market are demonstrating a strong commitment to product innovation, particularly focusing on natural ingredients, specialized nutrition, and premium offerings. Companies are actively expanding their portfolios through new product launches targeting specific dietary needs, health conditions, and pet life stages. Operational agility is evident through the establishment of robust distribution networks combining traditional retail channels with growing e-commerce platforms. Strategic moves predominantly involve acquisitions of natural and premium pet food brands to strengthen market positions and expand product ranges. Companies are also investing in manufacturing facilities expansion and forming partnerships with e-commerce platforms and veterinary clinics to enhance their market presence and distribution capabilities. This comprehensive approach is highlighted in the report on the pet food market.
Global Players Dominate Fragmented Market Structure
The UK pet food market exhibits a fragmented competitive landscape dominated by global multinational corporations with diverse product portfolios spanning multiple pet care segments. These major players leverage their extensive research capabilities, established brand recognition, and sophisticated distribution networks to maintain their market positions. Local players and specialists maintain their presence through a focus on premium segments and specialized nutrition offerings, though their market share remains relatively smaller compared to global conglomerates.
The market has witnessed significant merger and acquisition activity, particularly focused on premium and natural pet food brands. Global players are actively acquiring smaller specialized companies to expand their presence in growing segments such as natural, organic, and functional pet foods. This consolidation trend is driven by the need to acquire innovative products, access new distribution channels, and strengthen positions in premium segments, while smaller companies seek strategic partnerships to leverage larger players' distribution networks and manufacturing capabilities. This dynamic is reflected in the analysis of the pet food industry, which highlights the strategies for pet food company market share.
Innovation and Distribution Key to Growth
Success in the UK pet food market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate across product formulations, packaging, and delivery formats while maintaining strong relationships with veterinarians and pet specialty retailers. Incumbents must focus on premium positioning, sustainable practices, and digital transformation to maintain their market share. Companies need to develop comprehensive omnichannel strategies combining traditional retail presence with strong e-commerce capabilities to address evolving consumer purchasing patterns.
For contenders looking to gain ground, focusing on niche segments, developing innovative products addressing specific pet health concerns, and building strong direct-to-consumer relationships are crucial strategies. The market shows limited substitution risk due to growing pet humanization trends and increasing preference for commercial pet food over home-prepared alternatives. Regulatory compliance, particularly regarding ingredient sourcing and labeling requirements, remains crucial for all market participants. Companies must also address growing consumer concerns about sustainability and transparency in their operations to maintain a competitive advantage. The largest pet food companies in the UK are leading the way in these initiatives, as shown in the analysis of pet food market share by brand.
United Kingdom Pet Food Market Leaders
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Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.)
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Mars Incorporated
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Nestle (Purina)
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Schell & Kampeter Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)
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Virbac
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
United Kingdom Pet Food Market News
- July 2023: Hill's Pet Nutrition introduced its new MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certified pollock and insect protein products for pets with sensitive stomachs and skin lines. They contain vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
- May 2023: Nestle Purina launched new cat treats under the Friskies "Friskies Playfuls - treats" brand. These treats are round in shape and are available in chicken and liver and salmon and shrimp flavors for adult cats.
- March 2023: Mars Incorporated launched new Pedigree Multivitamins, a trio of soft chews formulated to help pets with their immunity, digestion, and joints. It has been developed with the Waltham Petcare Science Institute team, vets, and pet nutritionists.
United Kingdom Pet Food Market Report - Table of Contents
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS
2. REPORT OFFERS
3. INTRODUCTION
- 3.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
- 3.2 Scope of the Study
- 3.3 Research Methodology
4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS
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4.1 Pet Population
- 4.1.1 Cats
- 4.1.2 Dogs
- 4.1.3 Other Pets
- 4.2 Pet Expenditure
- 4.3 Regulatory Framework
- 4.4 Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD and Volume, Forecasts up to 2030 and analysis of growth prospects)
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5.1 Pet Food Product
- 5.1.1 Food
- 5.1.1.1 By Sub Product
- 5.1.1.1.1 Dry Pet Food
- 5.1.1.1.1.1 By Sub Dry Pet Food
- 5.1.1.1.1.1.1 Kibbles
- 5.1.1.1.1.1.2 Other Dry Pet Food
- 5.1.1.1.2 Wet Pet Food
- 5.1.2 Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements
- 5.1.2.1 By Sub Product
- 5.1.2.1.1 Milk Bioactives
- 5.1.2.1.2 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- 5.1.2.1.3 Probiotics
- 5.1.2.1.4 Proteins and Peptides
- 5.1.2.1.5 Vitamins and Minerals
- 5.1.2.1.6 Other Nutraceuticals
- 5.1.3 Pet Treats
- 5.1.3.1 By Sub Product
- 5.1.3.1.1 Crunchy Treats
- 5.1.3.1.2 Dental Treats
- 5.1.3.1.3 Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
- 5.1.3.1.4 Soft & Chewy Treats
- 5.1.3.1.5 Other Treats
- 5.1.4 Pet Veterinary Diets
- 5.1.4.1 By Sub Product
- 5.1.4.1.1 Diabetes
- 5.1.4.1.2 Digestive Sensitivity
- 5.1.4.1.3 Oral Care Diets
- 5.1.4.1.4 Renal
- 5.1.4.1.5 Urinary tract disease
- 5.1.4.1.6 Other Veterinary Diets
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5.2 Pets
- 5.2.1 Cats
- 5.2.2 Dogs
- 5.2.3 Other Pets
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5.3 Distribution Channel
- 5.3.1 Convenience Stores
- 5.3.2 Online Channel
- 5.3.3 Specialty Stores
- 5.3.4 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 5.3.5 Other Channels
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Key Strategic Moves
- 6.2 Market Share Analysis
- 6.3 Company Landscape
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6.4 Company Profiles
- 6.4.1 Alltech
- 6.4.2 Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company Inc.)
- 6.4.3 Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.)
- 6.4.4 Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC
- 6.4.5 FARMINA PET FOODS
- 6.4.6 General Mills Inc.
- 6.4.7 Mars Incorporated
- 6.4.8 Nestle (Purina)
- 6.4.9 Schell & Kampeter Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)
- 6.4.10 Virbac
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR PET FOOD CEOS
8. APPENDIX
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8.1 Global Overview
- 8.1.1 Overview
- 8.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
- 8.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
- 8.1.4 Market Dynamics (DROs)
- 8.2 Sources & References
- 8.3 List of Tables & Figures
- 8.4 Primary Insights
- 8.5 Data Pack
- 8.6 Glossary of Terms
United Kingdom Pet Food Industry Segmentation
Food, Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements, Pet Treats, Pet Veterinary Diets are covered as segments by Pet Food Product. Cats, Dogs are covered as segments by Pets. Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are covered as segments by Distribution Channel.Pet Food Product | Food | By Sub Product | Dry Pet Food | By Sub Dry Pet Food | Kibbles |
Other Dry Pet Food | |||||
Wet Pet Food | |||||
Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements | By Sub Product | Milk Bioactives | |||
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | |||||
Probiotics | |||||
Proteins and Peptides | |||||
Vitamins and Minerals | |||||
Other Nutraceuticals | |||||
Pet Treats | By Sub Product | Crunchy Treats | |||
Dental Treats | |||||
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats | |||||
Soft & Chewy Treats | |||||
Other Treats | |||||
Pet Veterinary Diets | By Sub Product | Diabetes | |||
Digestive Sensitivity | |||||
Oral Care Diets | |||||
Renal | |||||
Urinary tract disease | |||||
Other Veterinary Diets | |||||
Pets | Cats | ||||
Dogs | |||||
Other Pets | |||||
Distribution Channel | Convenience Stores | ||||
Online Channel | |||||
Specialty Stores | |||||
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets | |||||
Other Channels |
United Kingdom Pet Food Market Research FAQs
How big is the United Kingdom Pet Food Market?
The United Kingdom Pet Food Market size is expected to reach USD 7.84 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 2.99% to reach USD 9.09 billion by 2030.
What is the current United Kingdom Pet Food Market size?
In 2025, the United Kingdom Pet Food Market size is expected to reach USD 7.84 billion.
Who are the key players in United Kingdom Pet Food Market?
Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.), Mars Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Schell & Kampeter Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods) and Virbac are the major companies operating in the United Kingdom Pet Food Market.
Which segment has the biggest share in the United Kingdom Pet Food Market?
In the United Kingdom Pet Food Market, the Dogs segment accounts for the largest share by pets.
Which is the fastest growing segment in the United Kingdom Pet Food Market?
In 2025, the Dogs segment accounts for the fastest growing by pets in the United Kingdom Pet Food Market.
What years does this United Kingdom Pet Food Market cover, and what was the market size in 2025?
In 2025, the United Kingdom Pet Food Market size was estimated at 7.84 billion. The report covers the United Kingdom Pet Food Market historical market size for years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the United Kingdom Pet Food Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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United Kingdom Pet Food Market Research
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