Nigeria holds one of the strongest pet food industries in Africa, driven by a growing base of pet owners who prioritize health, convenience and locally relevant products. According to data from TGM Research’s 2024 Global Pet Care Report, 57% of Nigerians currently own pets, with nearly half (47%) of these households owning two or more animals. Dogs dominate, with 76% of multi-pet households and 70% of single-pet households reporting dog ownership. Cat ownership follows, particularly among middle-aged adults, with 59% of multi-pet households and 24% of single-pet households keeping cats.
Pet health and wellness trends help drive Nigerian pet food market growth. Veterinary care is the most used service by Nigerian pet owners, cited by 69%, while 72% of Nigerian pet owners identify veterinarians as their top source of pet care information. What’s more, 19% cite veterinarian recommendations as a key factor in choosing pet food. In Nigeria, pet food companies may have strong opportunities to collaborate with veterinary professionals in product positioning.
The market is also marked by evolving purchasing behavior. While 37% of Nigerians still shop for pet food in supermarkets, veterinary clinics (38%) and independent pet stores or small pet chains (24%) are becoming key channels, especially among consumers aged 25 to 44. Nevertheless, 35% of pet owners reported making their own pet food, perhaps indicating a trust gap or demand for more personalized or transparent commercial options.
Healthcare products and supplements lead pet supply purchases at 67%. This aligns with the top-reported pet health issues in Nigeria: food allergies (18%), skin allergies (10%), and digestive problems (8%). These concerns open the door for functional foods and targeted nutrition.
As pet humanization and premiumization gain traction in Nigeria, pet food producers may benefit from focusing on nutritional transparency, veterinarian-backed formulations, and multichannel distribution strategies tailored to local consumer preferences.
