Euromonitor International predicts India pet care growth with 39 million pets and rising premium trends

According to data analytics company Euromonitor International, in 2024, pet care in India continued to grow in retail current value terms, and this is set to continue in 2025, driven by shifting consumer behaviours, increasing urbanisation, and growing awareness of pet health and wellness. According to Euromonitor’s Socio data, the overall pet population in India grew by approximately 5% in 2024, and a similar rate of increase is anticipated in 2025, to reach 39 million pets. While the industry experienced an unprecedented surge in demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, the return to office routines has led to more stable growth rates.

However, pet ownership continues to rise, and many consumers are now prioritising premium, specialised products tailored to their pets’ needs. This shift has propelled the expansion of wet pet food, functional nutrition, and premium pet care services.

2025 key trends

One of the defining trends in pet food in India in 2024 and 2025 is the growing shift towards wet food – this is evident in both dog food and cat food, but is particularly witnessed in cat food. This is driven by rising awareness amongst pet owners about the importance of species-appropriate, nutritionally dense, and palatable diets. As a result, brands such as Me-O have rapidly gained traction, while brands such as Drools

are expanding their presence in wet cat food to meet this evolving demand. The broader trend of premiumisation is also gaining ground, with consumers gravitating towards protein-rich, grain-free, and functional food formulations tailored to specific pet health needs.

Within dog food, consumer choices are being shaped by pet demographic dynamics. According to Euromonitor’s Socio data, small dog breeds are set to increase to account for over 50% of India’s total dog population in 2025. This has encouraged companies to introduce specialised products that address the dietary and lifestyle requirements of smaller breeds, which often live in urban, indoor settings and require

tailored nutrition.

Meanwhile, other pets, which include birds, fish, small mammals, and reptiles, remain fragmented and underpenetrated. Euromonitor Socio data indicates that these pets will continue to account for only around 3% of the overall pet population in India in 2025. Despite scattered niche offerings, other pet food therefore has yet to see meaningful traction or organised growth, indicating limited commercial viability.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to Indian consumers, with brands experimenting with eco-friendly packaging and ethically sourced ingredients.

Additionally, growing awareness of veterinary costs has sparked interest in pet insurance, marking a shift towards more financially prepared and responsible pet ownership.

The Report was published May,2025