US Pet Treats Market Size and Share
Market Overview
| Study Period | 2017 - 2030 |
|---|---|
| Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
| Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
| Market Size (2025) | USD 10.5 Billion |
| Market Size (2030) | USD 15.27 Billion |
| Growth Rate (2025 - 2030) | 7.77% CAGR |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
Major Players
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0. |
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US Pet Treats Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence
The US pet treats market size stands at USD 10.50 billion in 2025 and is on track to reach USD 15.27 billion by 2030, delivering a healthy 7.77% CAGR over the forecast period. Shifting pet-owner demographics, premiumization, and digital purchasing habits underpin this expansion in the US pet treats market. Demand for human-grade ingredients, functional health benefits, and transparent supply chains continues to rise, prompting established players to invest in freeze-drying facilities and blockchain-based traceability systems. Millennial and Gen Z households account for a growing share of spending, while veterinary telemedicine platforms create new prescription treat channels. Continued cost reductions in freeze-dry technology and expanded e-commerce logistics further widen addressable opportunities across every price tier in the US pet treats market.
Key Report Takeaways
- By sub product, crunchy treats held 23.30% of the US pet treats market share in 2024, while freeze-dried and jerky treats are projected to expand at an 8.8% CAGR through 2030.
- By pet type, dogs commanded 54.7% of the US pet treats market size in 2024 and are forecasted to grow at a 9.3% CAGR through 2030.
- By distribution channel, specialty stores accounted for 37.8% of the US pet treats market size in 2024, whereas online channels recorded the fastest growth at 9.1% CAGR over the same period.
US Pet Treats Market Trends and Insights
Drivers Impact Analysis
| Driver | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premiumization and human-grade ingredient demand | +1.8% | National, with concentration in urban coastal markets | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| E-commerce and subscription auto-delivery adoption | +1.2% | National, with higher penetration in suburban markets | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Functional health-oriented formulations | +1.5% | National, with veterinary channel concentration | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Millennial and Gen Z pet-ownership surge | +1.4% | National, with urban market leadership | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Falling freeze-dry technology costs | +0.9% | National, with manufacturing hub benefits | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Tele-vet platforms bundling prescription treats | +0.6% | Urban markets, expanding to suburban areas | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Premiumization and human-grade ingredient demand
Elevated household attachment to companion animals, especially among millennials, positions premium formulations as everyday staples rather than occasional indulgences in the US pet treats market. Survey data show 67% of millennials treat pets as family members, translating to a willingness to pay 40-60% price premiums for organic, ethically sourced treats[1]Source: American Pet Products Association, “2023-2024 APPA National Pet Owners Survey,” americanpetproducts.org. Brands investing in USDA-certified kitchens, transparent sourcing, and artisanal processing secure shelf space in specialty stores and drive repeat online purchases. Nulo’s freeze-dried functional line exemplifies how premiumization intersects with condition-specific nutrition, enhancing price elasticity for differentiated offerings. Regulators validate quality through expanded organic certification guidelines, adding credibility while reinforcing capital requirements that limit low-cost competition.
E-commerce and subscription auto-delivery adoption
Digital commerce penetration reached 23% in 2024 and continues to reshape the US pet treats market. Autoship programs from Chewy and Amazon unlock predictable replenishment revenue and lower customer acquisition costs. Post-pandemic behavioral shifts proved to be sticky; the majority of owners maintained their online purchasing habits even after physical stores reopened. Direct-to-consumer innovators exploit this channel by offering personalized formulations, interactive nutrition quizzes, and bundled veterinary advice, bypassing traditional mark-up layers. Retail incumbents react with buy-online-pick-up-in-store programs and last-mile partnerships to preserve foot traffic and market relevance.
Functional health-oriented formulations
Veterinarian endorsements accelerate demand for dental, digestive, and joint-support treats within the US pet treats market. Periodontal disease prevalence above 80% among dogs over the age of three keeps dental chews at the top of condition-specific volumes. Probiotic-infused snacks appeal to owners seeking holistic gut-immune support, a trend reinforced by Mars Petcare’s investments in microbiome research. Joint-support formats that combine glucosamine with omega-3 oils are gaining traction among aging canine populations. While efficacy studies remain limited, perception of preventive health drives willingness to pay premiums and sustains R&D pipelines.
Millennial and Gen Z pet-ownership surge
Millennials now represent U.S. pet households and spend more on treats than Gen X owners. Social media influence fuels viral discovery of limited-ingredient, single-protein, and hypoallergenic products, amplifying niche brand visibility without traditional advertising budgets. Gen Z consumers, digital natives by default, favor brands with sustainability commitments and transparent ingredient sourcing. Urban apartment lifestyles foster demand for mess-free, single-serve portions as well as high-value reward items for positive reinforcement training. These demographic tailwinds secure a long runway for volume and premium growth in the US pet treats market.
Restraints Impact Analysis
| Restraint | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inflation-led price sensitivity | -1.1% | National, with rural market concentration | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Stricter FDA/AAFCO labeling reforms | -0.8% | National, with small manufacturer focus | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Novel-protein supply bottlenecks | -0.7% | National, affecting premium segment | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Anti-obesity advocacy limiting calorie allowances | -0.5% | National, with veterinary channel emphasis | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Inflation-led price sensitivity
Commodity price volatility affects treat manufacturing costs, with key ingredients such as chicken meal, sweet potato, and pea protein experiencing price increases of 15-25% throughout 2024. Campbell Soup Company's regulatory filings highlighted the impact on imported ingredients, forcing manufacturers to evaluate domestic sourcing alternatives or absorb margin compression[2]Source: Campbell Soup Company, “Form 10-K,” sec.gov. Consumer price sensitivity manifests differently across demographic segments, with older pet owners demonstrating greater elasticity while younger consumers maintain premium spending despite economic pressures. Private label treat penetration increases during inflationary periods as retailers leverage house brands to offer value alternatives without sacrificing shelf space for national brands.
Stricter FDA and AAFCO labeling reforms
The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) PURR Act implementation, beginning in 2025, mandates enhanced traceability systems that increase compliance costs for manufacturers while creating competitive advantages for companies with existing infrastructure investments. New labeling requirements demand specific nutrient content declarations and standardization of feeding guidelines, which affect package design costs and regulatory review timelines. The Association of American Feed Control Officials has updated ingredient definitions, particularly those related to novel protein sources, which require extensive safety documentation that favors established ingredients over innovative alternatives[3]Source: Association of American Feed Control Officials, “Ingredient Definitions and Labeling Requirements,” aafco.org. Reformulated labels require new nutrient confirmation studies and packaging redesigns, extending product development cycles and compressing launch calendars.
Segment Analysis
By Sub Product: Premium growth outpaces legacy formats
Crunchy treats held 23.30% of the US pet treats market share in 2024, while freeze-dried and jerky treats are projected to expand at an 8.8% CAGR through 2030. Manufacturing efficiency gains and raw ingredient integrity preserve nutrition without the need for preservatives, aligning with clean-label expectations. Crunchy treats benefit from cost advantages and established consumer habits. Soft and chewy options, which target aging dogs or those with dental issues, therefore hold steady demand. Dental-specific chews capitalize on veterinary endorsements, and GREENIES pivoted toward larger format meal replacement designs to capture incremental feeding occasions.
Manufacturers experiment with high-pressure processing and twin-screw extrusion to create novel textures while maintaining price competitiveness. The FDA’s guidance on antimicrobial hurdles further tilts R&D toward formats with inherent safety margins and long ambient shelf life, critical for e-commerce mailing across climate zones in the US pet treats market.
Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
By Pets: Canine dominance remains unchallenged
Dogs represented 54.7% of the US pet treats market size in 2024 and are forecast to grow at a 9.3% CAGR. Frequent training and bonding rituals drive multiple daily treat occasions, reinforcing canine volume leadership. Canine treat consumption averages 2-3 times daily compared to feline patterns of occasional reward-based feeding, creating larger market opportunities for manufacturers targeting dog-specific formulations. Cat treats represent a smaller but stable segment characterized by flavor preferences for fish and poultry proteins, with texture preferences that favor crunchy formats to support dental health.
Other pets, including birds, small mammals, and reptiles, represent niche segments with specialized nutritional requirements and limited mass-market appeal. These segments often command premium pricing due to specialized ingredient sourcing and smaller production volumes that increase per-unit manufacturing costs. Veterinary nutritionist recommendations are increasingly influencing treatment selection across all pet categories, with an emphasis on species-appropriate ingredients and portion control guidelines. The growing popularity of exotic pets creates opportunities for specialized treat manufacturers willing to invest in research and development for non-traditional companion animals.
By Distribution Channel: Digital convenience reshapes allocation
Specialty stores held a 37.8% market share of the US pet treats market in 2024, due to their curated assortments and trained staff. Yet, online channels are projected to deliver a 9.1% CAGR through 2030, driven by autoship, personalized algorithms, and next-day delivery guarantees. Amazon already commands more than 40% of online pet food and treat sales, forcing brick-and-mortar chains to enhance experiential elements such as grooming and nutrition counseling. Supermarkets and hypermarkets rely on convenience trips but struggle to differentiate their assortments without eroding premium margins.
Convenience stores are emerging as a channel for impulse treat purchases, particularly in urban markets where pet owners seek grab-and-go options during their daily routines. The channel's limited shelf space favors established brands with strong consumer recognition and promotional support from manufacturers. Other channels include farm and feed stores serving rural markets, veterinary clinics specializing in therapeutic products, and emerging formats such as pet-specific vending machines in dog parks and apartment complexes. Distribution channel evolution reflects broader retail trends toward experiential shopping and personalized service that create competitive advantages over pure e-commerce models.
Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
Geography Analysis
The US pet treats market exhibits regional variations in consumer preferences and spending patterns, with coastal urban markets leading the way in premiumization trends, while rural areas maintain price sensitivity and traditional product preferences. West Coast markets, particularly those in California, drive the adoption of innovation and sustainable packaging initiatives, influencing national product development strategies. The region's higher disposable income levels and environmental consciousness create demand for organic, locally sourced, and eco-friendly treat options that command premium pricing. Northeast markets emphasize convenience and functional benefits, with busy urban lifestyles driving the adoption of subscription services and preferences for single-serve packaging.
The Midwest and Southern regions represent volume-driven markets, where value positioning and traditional flavors dominate consumer preferences. Growing affluence in metropolitan areas like Austin, Nashville, and Denver creates pockets of premium demand. The American Veterinary Medical Association's regional spending data reveals that per-pet treat expenditure varies by 35% between the highest and lowest spending states, reflecting income disparities and cultural attitudes toward pet care.
Climate variations across regions influence seasonal demand patterns, with summer months driving increased outdoor activity and treat consumption for training and rewards during exercise periods. Northern states demonstrate higher demand for joint health supplements integrated into treat formats, reflecting concerns about arthritis and mobility issues exacerbated by cold weather conditions. The geographic distribution of veterinary specialists affects therapeutic treat adoption, with areas having higher concentrations of veterinary nutritionists and internal medicine specialists showing increased penetration of prescription and functional treat categories.
Competitive Landscape
The US pet treats market exhibits moderate fragmentation, with the top companies, including Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), General Mills Inc., and The J.M. Smucker Company, accounting for a significant market share in 2024. Mars Incorporated completed the USD 35.9 billion acquisition of Kellanova's entire portfolio, including the pet business, adding Pringles-adjacent manufacturing capabilities and expanding global distribution reach for premium treat segments.
Private equity investment accelerates consolidation among mid-tier manufacturers, with firms like Clearlake Capital positioning portfolio companies for premium segment expansion through operational improvements and brand development initiatives. Technology adoption differentiates competitive positioning, with leaders investing in high-pressure processing, artificial intelligence for quality control, and blockchain traceability systems that support premium positioning and regulatory compliance.
Emerging disruptors leverage direct-to-consumer models and personalized nutrition platforms to bypass traditional retail gatekeepers while building customer relationships through subscription services and data-driven product recommendations. Patent filings in functional ingredient delivery systems and novel protein processing methods indicate ongoing innovation competition, particularly in areas where regulatory approval creates temporary competitive moats. The FDA's enhanced enforcement capabilities under the PURR Act favor established players with dedicated regulatory affairs resources while creating barriers for smaller manufacturers lacking compliance infrastructure.
US Pet Treats Industry Leaders
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Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.)
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General Mills Inc.
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Mars Incorporated
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Nestle (Purina)
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The J. M. Smucker Company
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Recent Industry Developments
- August 2024: Mars Incorporated completed the USD 35.9 billion acquisition of Kellanova's entire portfolio, including the pet business, adding Pringles-adjacent manufacturing capabilities and expanding global distribution reach for premium treat segments.
- 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: Temptations, a brand under Mars Incorporated, expanded its treats offerings with a new product called Temptation Tender Fills treats and two new flavors of its Temptations Creamy Purrrr-ee treats.
US Pet Treats Market Report Scope
Crunchy Treats, Dental Treats, Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats, Soft & Chewy Treats are covered as segments by Sub Product. Cats, Dogs are covered as segments by Pets. Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are covered as segments by Distribution Channel.| Dental Treats |
| Crunchy Treats |
| Soft & Chewy Treats |
| Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats |
| Other Treats |
| Cats |
| Dogs |
| Other Pets |
| Convenience Stores |
| Online Channel |
| Specialty Stores |
| Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
| Other Channels |
| Sub Product | Dental Treats |
| Crunchy Treats | |
| Soft & Chewy Treats | |
| Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats | |
| Other Treats | |
| 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
