The global pet food market is projected to nearly double in value over the next decade, growing from $132.4 billion in 2025 to $247.7 billion by 2035, according to a new report from Future Market Insights (FMI). The market is forecast to advance at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% during that period.
FMI said growth is being driven by a sustained shift toward premiumization, personalized nutrition and formulations designed for specific life stages, breeds and health needs. Demand is rising for products that support digestive health, joint care and immune function.
Regulatory environment
FMI noted regulatory frameworks continue to shape product development, labeling and market access across major pet food markets. In the U.S., the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine oversees compliance related to nutritional standards and ingredient approvals. In Europe, EFSA regulations require strict safety assessments, while FEDIAF guidelines help standardize formulations. In Japan, labeling and ingredient safety standards are enforced under the Ministry of Agriculture.
Globally, regulatory frameworks increasingly emphasize transparency in sourcing, restrictions on harmful additives, hygienic manufacturing practices, and accurate labeling and product claims.
Segment performance
Kibble/dry is projected to lead the product type segment with 42.5% market share in 2025, supported by its cost-effectiveness, compatibility with automated feeding systems, and continued flavor and coating innovation, said FMI.
Animal-derived ingredients are expected to lead the source category with approximately 22.7% market share, driven by demand for high-protein formulations featuring chicken, fish, beef, lamb and turkey. Fish-based proteins are seeing particular interest for their omega-3 benefits linked to skin and coat health.
The dog food segment is expected to capture 60% of the total market in 2025, supported by higher ownership rates and spending across premium treats and targeted diets, including puppy, adult and senior formulations, as well as breed-specific products.
Conventional pet food is projected to hold approximately 70% market share in the nature category, driven by affordability, broad retail availability and nutritional consistency.
Insect-derived proteins, which include crickets, mealworms and Black Soldier flies, represent an emerging source segment alongside plant-derived options.
Country-level outlook
The United Kingdom is forecast to be the fastest-growing national market, with a projected CAGR of 6.8% from 2025 to 2035, driven by premiumization, direct-to-consumer e-commerce and breed-specific formulation demand.
France follows at 6.6%, with strong uptake of functional treats targeting mobility and digestion. Germany is projected at 6.4%, supported by demand for monoprotein, hypoallergenic, and organic formulations.
The U.S. is forecast to grow at 6.2%, with high spending on dental health and joint care products. Japan is projected at 6.1%, driven by small-breed and age-specific nutrition formats.
Market trends and challenges
The report identifies several trends shaping the next decade, including the integration of smart packaging for transparency and traceability, adoption of genetic profiling to support personalized nutrition, and increased use of functional ingredients such as probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Key challenges include high production costs for premium and specialized formulations, regional differences in safety standards creating compliance complexity, and sustainability concerns tied to animal-derived protein sourcing.
Competitive landscape
FMI noted in the report that the global pet food market remains moderately consolidated. Leading companies include Mars Petcare, Nestlé Purina PetCare, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Blue Buffalo (owned by General Mills) and Cargill. FMI said these manufacturers are increasing R&D investment in personalized nutrition, functional ingredients and sustainable protein alternatives including insect- and plant-based proteins as premium and natural segments continue to expand.
