Europe Pet Food Market is predicted to reach USD 31,186.48 million at a CAGR of 5.75% during the forecast period 2023-2032

Market Research Future (MRFR) has published on the “Global Europe Pet Food Market”.

Market Synopsis

According to the MRFR analysis, the Europe Pet Food market was valued at USD 31,186.48 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 51,365.49 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 5.75%.

The Europe Pet Food market has witnessed a transformative shift in recent years, driven significantly by increasing pet humanization trends among European households, and growing demand for organic and natural pet food products.

COVID-19 Impact on the Pet Food Market

Through direct and indirect effects, the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the pet food industry in Europe. The demand for pet food increased significantly in the early stages of the pandemic along with the number of pet owners. The reason behind this increase in pet expenses was the rise in the number of people who stayed at home and looked for company. During lockdowns many pet owners felt a stronger bond with their animals and were prepared to pay extra for high-quality and specialty pet food products. As a result, there was a brief surge in sales in the market along with a noticeable increase in demand for wholesome pet foods. On the other hand, the pandemic also brought forth a few difficulties that impacted the dynamics of the market. The production and distribution of pet food products were impacted by shortages of raw materials and packaging materials caused by the disruption of global supply chains. The incapacity to keep up a stable supply chain resulted in delays and occasionally higher expenses for manufacturers. Several businesses were compelled by these difficulties to modify their pricing and production plans which in turn affected the purchasing decisions of customers.

The market was somewhat unstable despite the rise in demand because of these supply chain and logistical problems. In addition, the pandemic changed how people behaved and what they bought. When physical retail stores were forced to close during lockdowns there was a noticeable shift in pet food purchases to online platforms. This forced many businesses to improve their online presence and make investments in online platforms as e-commerce in the pet food industry grew more quickly. Consequently, the pet food industry experienced a shift in its distribution channels prioritizing digital marketing tactics and direct-to-consumer sales. In the long run the pandemic has caused changes in the pet food market in Europe which need to be adjusted to. Businesses are paying more attention to creating robust supply chains and investigating novel approaches to distribution to lessen the effects of upcoming disruptions. The pet food industry has been forced to invest in technology and sustainable practices in response to changing market conditions and consumer demands underscoring the significance of innovation and adaptability in the face of the pandemic.

Competitive Landscape

The Pet Food market is characterized by intense competition among key industry players striving to meet the diverse needs of consumers. The key players operating in the Europe Pet Food market comprise Mars, Incorporated (US), Nestle S.A. (Switzerland), ADM (US), Affinity Petcare SA (Spain), Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (US), Colgate-Palmolive Company (US), General Mills Inc. (US), Heristo aktiengesellschaft (Germany), Schell & Kampeter Inc. (US), Virbac (France) among others.

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Segmentation

By Food Type

1. Dry Food: Particularly for dogs and cats dry food sometimes referred to as kibble is one of the most popular product categories in the European pet food market. Due to its extended shelf-life affordability and ease of use this category is very popular. For pet owners with hectic schedules dry food is a practical choice because it is easy to store and can be left out for extended periods of time without going bad. Furthermore, it frequently consists of a well-balanced diet that supports a pets health by providing important proteins fibers vitamins and minerals.


2. Wet Food: Another significant area of the European pet food market is wet food which is usually offered in cans or pouches. Because of its high moisture content, it is extremely palatable and a desirable choice for pets who have dietary needs or who need more water. Compared to dry food wet food typically has higher levels of protein and fat which can support pets in maintaining a healthy weight and level of energy. Furthermore, the soft texture is perfect for elderly pets who have trouble chewing harder foods or pets with dental problems. Dry food is less expensive than wet food, but wet food has a shorter shelf life after it is opened. Despite this consumers desire for more natural ingredients and human-grade formulations has increased the demand for high-quality wet food products. Wet pet food has also seen a rise in specialty formulations in Europe that cater to pet owners who are health-conscious and address health issues like weight management or digestive health.


3. Treats & Snacks: In the European pet food market treats and snacks represent a rapidly expanding segment. They are mainly given as incentives for training or as infrequent treats to deepen the bond between owners and their pets. The expansion of this market is a result of pet owners treating their animals more and more like family members. In addition, treats have practical uses like easing stress or assisting with joint care or dental health. In Europe dental chews have become more and more popular because they taste good and are intended to help clean teeth and freshen breath. A growing number of options in the treats and snacks segment are focused on natural organic and grain-free ingredients reflecting the significant innovation in product offerings in this space. These days a lot of pet owners search for healthier substitutes like low-calorie snacks or high-protein foods made from premium meats like duck or salmon. In response European companies have started to offer vegan gourmet and single ingredient treats this reflects the growing trend toward humanized pet food products.


4. Others: The European pet food markets other segment consists of freeze-dried or dehydrated foods raw pet food and semi-moist food. Because raw meats and vegetables are thought to be more closely aligned with what pets would naturally eat in the wild raw food diets also known as BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) are becoming more and more popular in Europe. Although they are more costly proponents of raw and freeze-dried foods argue that they are more nutrient-dense than processed foods because they retain more of the original nutrients. Though they are less common semi-moist foods provide a balance between the wet food’s palatability and the dry foods convenience. Among pet owners looking for high-nutrition lightweight options that are simple to prepare by adding water dehydrated and freeze-dried foods are also gaining popularity. This segments diversification is further aided by the fact that specialty foods typically cater to pet owners who have dietary requirements or pets with specific health issues.

By Food Animal

1. Dog Food: Due to dogs’ widespread popularity as pets throughout Europe dog food makes up the largest segment of the pet food market. Foods like semi-moist food, wet food, dry kibble and treats are all included in this section. Demand for premium organic and specialty dog foods—including grain-free high-protein and weight-management options has significantly increased as pet owners become more aware of the health and dietary requirements of their animals. Additionally gaining popularity are novelties in dog food formulations such as the addition of glucosamine for joint health or other functional ingredients. Additionally, the humanization of pets the practice of treating them like members of the family has prompted the creation of gourmet and customized meal options for dogs which has helped to grow this market. The growing popularity of internet sales channels which make it easier for pet owners to obtain a variety of dog food products is another factor propelling growth. Consumers in European countries can now afford to spend more on their pets due to urbanization and the expansion of the middle class.


2. Cat Food: Another major segment in the European pet food market is the cat food sector. After dogs cats are the second most popular pets and there is a growing need for specialty cat food. With a growing focus on formulas designed to satisfy the nutritional requirements of cats this category covers dry food wet food and treats. For example, there is a growing market for cat foods that offer health advantages like those that support digestive weight-control and urinary tract health. Pet owners who want to give their cats a diet more in line with their natural prey-based nutrition are increasingly choosing grain-free high-protein cat foods. The rising trend of cat ownership especially in urban areas where cats are preferred for their independence and suitability for apartment living is what is fueling the growth of the cat food market. Like dog food premium and organic products are becoming more and more popular in the cat food market where companies are starting to offer gourmet selections and specialized diets. Additionally, businesses are releasing dual-purpose treats like dental care and hairball control.


3. Bird Food: Though it is a smaller market than dog or cat food in Europe the market for bird food is nonetheless quite strong due to the devoted birding community. Bird owners frequently search for specialty food that meets the dietary needs of bird species such as finches, parrots or canaries. Pellets and seed mixes are two types of bird food that are meant to give a well-rounded diet. Also, it’s becoming more and more common to find bird food that has been fortified with vitamins and minerals to promote the general health and wellbeing of companion birds. Furthermore, consumers are increasingly looking for natural and organic bird food that doesn’t contain artificial coloring or preservatives. Because different species have different dietary requirements the bird food market is very diverse. For instance, large birds like parrots may need a diet high in seeds and nuts while smaller birds like canaries may do well on seed-based mixes. The growing demand for treats and supplements that improve the health energy levels, and plumage of birds is another factor driving this market.


4. Rodent Food: Food intended for small mammals such as guinea pigs hamsters and rabbits is referred to as rodent food. In Europe this market is expanding particularly among urban households where space constraints favor small pets. To meet the nutritional needs of different species the main ingredients of rodent food are pellets hay and seed mixes. To illustrate guinea pigs and rabbits need high-fiber diets which are typically derived from hay whereas hamsters can profit from grain- and vegetable-rich seed mixes. More natural species-specific diets have been popular in recent years with a focus on balanced nutrition to increase rodent longevity and vitality. The demand for organic non-GMO rodent food is rising as pet owners become more concerned about the quality of the food they give their animals. To avoid common health problems like dental problems and digestive disorders there are also fortified options that come with extra vitamins and minerals.


5. Others Food: Fish, reptiles, amphibians and exotic animals like ferrets are among the more specialized pet food categories found in the others section. A growing number of people are becoming interested in owning exotic pets even though this market is still smaller than that of dog or cat food. This segment is dominated by fish food products which include pellets for larger species and flake food for smaller fish. High-quality nutritionally balanced fish food is in high demand due to the growing trend of aquarium keeping as a hobby and for aesthetic reasons. Conversely food for reptiles is designed to specifically suit the requirements of animals such as lizards, turtles and snakes. Mealworms live or frozen insects and specially prepared pellets that supply the essential vitamins and minerals for the well-being of reptiles are examples of this. Innovations in food formulas to enhance health digestion and vitality are the result of manufacturers exploring more customized products for these less common pets as pet ownership becomes more diverse in Europe.

By Distribution Channel

1. Supermarkets & Hypermarkets: One of the biggest distribution channels for pet food in Europe is supermarkets and hypermarkets which provide a broad range of goods for all pet categories from high-end brands to reasonably priced options. Pet food can be bought in addition to groceries and household goods at these stores which attract customers with the convenience of a one-stop shopping experience. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are pet owners preferred options because of their accessibility, extensive product selection and affordable prices. Pet food is now easily accessible to a wider audience because these stores, which are frequently located in suburban and urban areas draw a varied customer base.


2. Specialty Pet Shops: Pet owners can enjoy a distinctive shopping experience at specialty pet stores which offer a range of pet-related products such as food accessories grooming supplies and other necessities. These establishments are especially regarded for their proficiency as evidenced by the skilled personnel who offer thorough counsel and suggestions catered to individual pet requirements. Specialty pet stores are the first choice for affluent customers searching for premium specialty or veterinarian-approved pet food as pet humanization trends continue to rise and pet owners seek premium organic or specialized dietary products.


3. Online Sales Channel: Because it’s convenient to shop from home and e-commerce platforms are becoming more widely used, the online sales channel has experienced rapid growth in the pet food market in Europe. Customers value the time and effort they save by being able to compare prices, read product reviews and have pet food delivered right to their door. The emergence of subscription services has further broadened this channel enabling pet owners to schedule regular deliveries and ensure that they never run out of necessary supplies. Younger tech-savvy consumers who value flexibility and convenience have been particularly aware of the digital shift. Technology is being used by e-commerce sites and direct-to-consumer websites to provide tailored recommendations and package discounts. These recommendations are frequently based on the breed age and dietary needs of the pet. Plus compared to physical stores online platforms often offer access to a wider variety of products including specialty or hard-to-find items.


4. Others: Veterinarian clinics, pet grooming parlors and independent retailers are just a few of the alternative distribution channels that make up the others category in the European pet food market. These channels play specialized roles in serving pet owners needs even though they make up a smaller portion of the market overall. For pets with medical conditions that necessitate a customized diet veterinarian clinics are reliable suppliers of high-quality and therapeutic pet food products. The fact that these clinics frequently suggest and sell food made for animals with allergies, problems with weight management or other medical needs makes them essential in the premium market. With their specialized services and line of premium pet foods independent pet stores and grooming parlors can carve out a market niche.

By Packaging Type

1. Flexible Packaging (Pouches): Flexible packaging mostly pouches is a popular option in the pet food industry in Europe because of its portability, ease of storage and lightweight design. As an airtight and moisture-proof barrier that maintains freshness and lengthens shelf-life pouches are commonly used for wet pet food snacks and treats. Flexible packaging is becoming more and more popular because it is convenient to open reseal and discard which meets consumer demand for useful portable packaging options. In comparison to rigid packaging this format is also more environmentally friendly because it typically uses less material and because of its lighter weight incurs lower transportation costs. Apart from their practicality pouches also present noteworthy benefits in branding and marketing since their generous surface area facilitates imaginative designs and unambiguous product details.


2. Rigid Packaging: Dry pet food is frequently packaged in rigid containers which provide strong protection against environmental factors and preserve the products integrity all the way through the supply chain. These kinds of containers are usually composed of glass or plastic which offer a sturdy barrier that keeps the pet food nutrient-rich and prevents contamination. Larger amounts of pet food that are kept for longer periods of time are best served by rigid packaging which is renowned for its strength and long-term protection. Sturdy packaging is attractive because it is less prone to breaking during handling and transit because of its structural stability. For larger multi-pet households that need to buy in bulk rigid packaging is especially useful even though it can be heavier and bulkier than flexible alternatives. To improve user convenience and maintain freshness some brands also incorporate resealable features into their rigid containers. Rigid packaging is still a mainstay in the European pet food market as consumers search for options for bulk purchases and long-term storage.

By Country

1. 
   

   Germany: Germany has the biggest pet population and a robust pet ownership culture making it the country with the largest pet food market in Europe. Germany has one of the greatest pet populations in the region with an estimated 10 million dogs and 16 million cats. Pet owners in the nation are prepared to spend money on high-quality nutritionally balanced pet food because they value their health greatly and consider their animals as members of the family. Pets with dietary needs can now find specialized diets such as grain-free hypoallergenic and organic pet food due to this trend. The German pet market is seeing a significant trend toward premiumization as more buyers look for high-quality items that support their pets’ general health and wellbeing. In Germany dog and cat food dominates the pet food market but as the country’s pet ownership landscape becomes more diverse there is an increasing demand for food made specifically for smaller pets like birds, guinea pigs and rabbits.

   
   


2. 
   

   France: The premium and super-premium segments are growing because pet owners are willing to spend more on food that promotes the health and longevity of their animals. The humanization of pets is a major trend in France where pet owners treat their animals like members of the family and base their decisions on the same moral and health principles that they use to determine what is best for their own diets. Demand for natural grain-free and physiologically suitable pet food has increased as a result following patterns in human food consumption. The preference for sustainably sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging among French pet owners is indicative of their growing environmental consciousness. This increasingly discerning customer base is favoring brands that provide transparency about their sourcing and production methods.

   
   


3. 
   

   Spain: Due to rising pet ownership and shifting consumer perceptions of pet care Spain’s pet food market has grown rapidly in recent years. In the nation there are about 4 million cats and 60. 7 million dogs and the number of pet owners is growing especially in urban areas where cat ownership is growing in popularity. Premium and ultra-premium pet food is replacing budget and mid-range options as health-conscious pet owners in Spain become more aware of their health. Owners are more willing to spend money on premium food that supports the health and longevity of their pets because of the growing perception of pets as members of the family.

   
   


4. 
   

   UK: With a sizable and varied pet population the UK has one of the most developed pet food markets in Europe. Cats and dogs are both very popular among pet owners there are about 12 million cats and 13 million dogs in the nation. The pet food industry in the UK is marked by a rise in sustainability and health consciousness as pet owners become more aware of the nutritional content of the food they give their animals. Due to the increased demand for natural organic and premium pet food products many consumers are choosing grain-free raw or hypoallergenic food to address health issues. The humanization of pets is one of the key themes in the UK pet food industry. Increasingly people who own pets consider them members of their family and are prepared to spend money on nourishing food that supports longevity and good health. Because of this the market for functional pet food products has expanded. These products offer extra health advantages like bettering joint health skin and coat quality or digestive function.

   
   


5. 
   

   Italy: The increasing popularity of natural and organic products is one of the major trends in the pet food industry in Italy. Pet owners are increasingly looking for food that is free of artificial additives and contains only natural ingredients as they become more health conscious. As a result, more grain-free and raw food options as well as functional pet food that addresses health issues are available. Additionally Italian consumers growing concern over the impact of their purchases on the environment is driving demand for pet food that is packaged using eco-friendly materials and produced sustainably.

   
   


6. 
   

   Croatia: The growing concern among Croatian pet owners about diet-specific requirements has prompted major pet food brands to respond to these trends by launching functional foods that are appropriate for various stages of the pet life cycle and breed. Local producers have an impact on the dry and wet food categories of the Croatian pet food market. The trust that Croatian consumers have in quality standards and regulations makes them prefer European brands. With more and more specialized shops and internet portals providing a large selection of pet food options, retail channels are growing. The increasing popularity of pet care and wellness trends is driving businesses to launch items like vitamins and dental care meals that improve pets’ quality of life. The demand for premium pet foods is further driven by this trend which coincides with the longer life expectancy of Croatia’s pet population.

   
   


7. 
   

   Slovenia: Slovenia’s pet food market is characterized by a strong focus on premiumization and health-conscious products. With an estimated pet population of over 520,000, Slovenia has a significant number of dog and cat owners who prioritize the quality of food. Slovenian consumers are highly influenced by trends in Western Europe, where organic, grain-free, and raw pet food diets are gaining traction. Additionally, there is a growing demand for functional pet food addressing issues such as obesity, joint health, and digestive problems, reflecting the increasing humanization of pets in Slovenian households.

   
   


8. 
   

   Bosnia & Herzegovina: In Bosnia & Herzegovina, the pet food market is still in the early stages of development but is growing steadily, with an estimated 430,000 pets, primarily dogs and cats. Pet ownership is rising, particularly in urban areas, where people are increasingly treating their pets as family members. This shift is driving demand for higher-quality pet food products, moving away from homemade or table scraps. Dry pet food dominates the market, but there is increasing interest in wet food and treats, particularly for dogs.

   
   


9. 
   

   Serbia: Serbia’s pet food market is experiencing rapid growth, bolstered by the country’s rising pet population, estimated at over 1.2 million pets, including a significant number of dogs and cats. Pet ownership in Serbia is becoming more common, particularly in urban centers like Belgrade. This has led to a growing demand for higher-quality pet food, especially among middle and upper-income households. Dry food is the most popular, but there is increasing interest in wet food, treats, and supplements. Pet owners are gradually moving toward specialized diets that cater to their pets’ specific needs, such as grain-free, hypoallergenic, or age-specific foods.

   
   


10. 
    

    North Macedonia: North Macedonia’s pet food market is relatively small but growing, supported by the country’s rising pet population, which includes approximately 300,000 pets. Pet ownership has become more popular in recent years, particularly among young families in urban areas. Pet owners in North Macedonia are increasingly seeking better-quality food options for their pets, moving away from table scraps and low-cost food toward more specialized products. Dry food remains the dominant category, but wet food and treats are gaining popularity, especially for cats and smaller dog breeds.

    
    


11. 
    

    Albania: Albania’s pet food market has seen gradual growth, with urbanization and shifting consumer behavior playing key roles. In a country with a population of roughly 2.8 million, pet ownership has risen, particularly in urban centers like Tirana, where Westernized lifestyles are more prominent. An estimated 300,000 dogs and 200,000 cats are kept as pets, with dog ownership being more common in rural areas for protection and companionship, while cats are more popular in urban households. Despite this growth, the market for pet food in Albania remains underdeveloped. Many pet owners still prefer to prepare homemade meals for their pets, especially in rural regions where traditional practices prevail.

    
    


12. 
    

    Kosovo: Kosovo's pet food market is still nascent but holds potential for expansion as pet ownership becomes more common. With a population of around 1.8 million, Kosovo’s pet population is estimated at 150,000 dogs and 100,000 cats. Pet ownership in Kosovo is heavily influenced by cultural preferences and economic factors, with dogs being more commonly kept for security purposes in both urban and rural areas. The country’s post-conflict economic development has led to growing disposable incomes, particularly in cities such as Pristina, where young professionals and families are more likely to own pets. The pet food market in Kosovo is currently dominated by lower-priced products, and there is a strong presence of local and regional suppliers offering basic pet food options.

    
    


13. 
    

    Romania: Romania has one of the more developed pet food markets in Eastern Europe, owing to a sizable pet population and a growing middle class. Romania’s population of 19 million people supports a pet population of approximately 4 million dogs and 3 million cats, making it one of the largest pet markets in the region. Pet ownership in Romania is deeply rooted in culture, with many households, especially in rural areas, keeping dogs for protection and cats as companions. In urban areas, the increasing focus on pet health and wellness has led to growing demand for premium pet food brands. The Romanian pet food market is highly competitive, with both international and domestic brands offering a wide range of products.

    
    


14. 
    

    Bulgaria: Bulgaria’s pet food market is also experiencing steady growth, driven by rising pet ownership and increasing consumer spending on pets. With a population of 6.9 million, Bulgaria has an estimated 1.3 million dogs and 800,000 cats. Dogs are more commonly kept in rural areas for security purposes, while cats are popular in urban settings. Pet food demand in Bulgaria is evolving, with an increasing number of pet owners becoming more conscious of the importance of nutrition and health for their pets. While the market is dominated by international pet food brands, there has been a rise in locally produced products that cater to the price-sensitive segment. However, the premium pet food segment is growing, driven by higher-income households in urban areas such as Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv. E-commerce has also become a significant channel for pet food sales, offering greater convenience and variety to Bulgarian consumers.

    
    


15. 
    

    Rest of Europe: The Rest of Europe segment in the Europe Pet Food Market primarily includes countries that are either smaller in size or have emerging markets compared to the larger pet food markets like Germany, France, and the UK. Countries in this segment might include nations like Portugal, Greece, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, Hungary, and the Nordic regions, among others. Each of these countries presents distinct opportunities and challenges for the pet food industry due to differences in pet ownership trends, disposable income, consumer preferences, and regulatory environments. In countries such as the Netherlands and Belgium, where disposable income is relatively higher, pet food demand is driven by premium and organic pet food products. The health-conscious consumer base in these regions tends to prioritize natural and high-quality ingredients in their pet food purchases, aligning with the broader trend of humanization of pets, where owners treat their pets as family members. These markets are also adopting sustainable pet food packaging solutions, reflecting the growing environmental consciousness among European consumers. However, despite this preference for premium products, there remains a sizable market for budget and mid-range pet food, especially in households with multiple pets. On the other hand, Eastern European countries like Poland and Hungary, which fall into the Rest of Europe category, are experiencing robust growth in the pet food sector, largely due to the rising number of pet adoptions and an expanding middle class. While premium pet food options are gaining traction, most consumers in these markets still opt for affordable and local brands, driven by price sensitivity. Nonetheless, urbanization and an increasing focus on pet health are expected to propel demand for specialized and health-focused pet food products in these countries over the coming years. The Rest of Europe segment is therefore highly diverse, encompassing both mature markets with a preference for premium products and emerging markets where growth is being driven by affordability and accessibility.