Mexico's pet food industry is closing 2025 amid a profound realignment. A challenging economic environment, combined with shifting consumption habits and a rapidly evolving channel landscape, has redefined how the category grows and where value is being created. The 2025 Annual Pet Food Market Report from Triplethree International highlights that this year's moderation was not a sign of contraction, but the beginning of a structural transition in the way Mexican households access, choose and consume pet food.
A younger pet population is reshaping demand
Mexico's pet demographics are undergoing a generational shift. Puppies are projected to contribute more than 20% growth in early-life cohorts toward 2030, redefining the nutritional and product mix consumers seek.
Functional formulas, transitional diets, and premium propositions are gaining weight as households — not shelters — become the primary source of new pets. This expansion of "home-born" animals strengthens proximity channels and produces a consumer base with lower formality but stronger emotional and practical ties to everyday points of purchase.
Channels are transforming, with pet shops leading the value capture
In 2025 alone, the traditional trade added 65,000 net new points of sale, reinforcing its role as the industry's physical backbone. Yet the strategic center of gravity is shifting: pet shops are now the leading stage for premiumization, differentiation and innovation.
Convenience formats, veterinarians and online marketplaces have also regained momentum, signaling a broader multichannel reconfiguration. The category's expansion is no longer just physical — it is directional, with channels aligning around value, storytelling, and shopper intent.
Value growth outpaces volume as premiumization accelerates
Pressure on manufacturing capacity is mounting. Some plants face underutilization; others operate near their limits — evidence that efficiency and precision now matter more than scale. This mirrors the broader market transition from a "more kilos" model to a "more value" model.
Prices continue rising, especially in cat food, which surpassed $100 MXN per kilo and widened its price gap versus dog food, reflecting higher value-added content and the rapid expansion of wet formats. Premium and technical products keep gaining traction, while economic offerings approach saturation.
By the end of 2025, the market will reach 1.7 million tons and 150.5 billion pesos (US$8.25 billion), posting 2.2% volume growth and 5.9% value growth. Dogs maintain a 71.7% share, yet cats lead value expansion at +8%.
Looking forward, Mexico is positioned for sustainable, value-led growth. With specialized channels rising, premium nutrition strengthening, and younger pets reshaping demand, the winners of tomorrow will be brands that offer clarity, innovation and purpose — far beyond price alone.
Iván Franco is the founder of Triplethree International and has collaborated on hundreds of research projects for several consumer goods industries.
