China Pet Food Market Size and Share

China Pet Food Market (2025 - 2030)
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China Pet Food Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The China pet food market was valued at USD 12.73 billion in 2025 and estimated to grow from USD 13.81 billion in 2026 to reach USD 20.75 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 8.47% during the forecast period (2026-2031). Premium formulations, direct-to-consumer innovation, and functional positioning elevate average selling prices while urbanization and rising disposable income expand the pet-owning population. Domestic manufacturers scale freeze-dried capacity to capture value in high-margin treat formats, and livestreaming commerce compresses the path from product discovery to purchase, allowing niche brands to compete head-on with multinational incumbents. Regulatory tightening around labeling and ingredient traceability reinforces consumer trust, helping premium and therapeutic diets gain share even in price-sensitive Tier-3 markets. Raw material cost volatility and carbon-neutral compliance outlays temper margins but simultaneously spur technology upgrades and supply-chain diversification.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By pet food product, food captured 60.02% of the China pet food market size in 2025 and is projected to expand at a 9.21% CAGR through 2031.
  • By type, pets, dogs held a 42.25% share of the China pet food market size in 2025, while cats are forecast to grow at a 10.56% CAGR between 2026 and 2031.
  • By distribution channel, online platforms accounted for a 59.10% share of the China pet food market size in 2025. The channel is forecast to grow at a 9.88% CAGR by 2031.
  • The Chinese pet food market features a highly fragmented competitive landscape, comprising a mix of global multinational corporations and regional players. Global conglomerates such as Mars, Incorporated, Nestlé, ADM, Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.), and General Mills maintain a significant market presence, accounting for an 11.05% share in 2025.

Note: Market size and forecast figures in this report are generated using Mordor Intelligence’s proprietary estimation framework, updated with the latest available data and insights as of January 2026.

Segment Analysis

By Pet Food Product: Food Dominance Drives Market Foundation

Food products maintain commanding market leadership with a 60.02% China pet food market size in 2025, reflecting their essential role in daily pet nutrition and broad consumer accessibility across price points. This significant market position is primarily driven by the fact that the segment is a staple purchase for most pet owners, regardless of their pet's breed, size, or age. 

The segment's 9.21% CAGR through 2031, benefits from premiumization trends as consumers upgrade from basic kibble to specialized formulations featuring novel proteins, functional ingredients, and life-stage targeting. Dry pet food, particularly kibble formats, represents the largest subsegment due to convenience, shelf stability, and cost-effectiveness for multi-pet households. Wet pet food experiences accelerating growth as urbanization increases demand for portion-controlled, palatability-enhanced options that appeal to finicky eaters and senior pets requiring softer textures.

China Pet Food Market: Market Share by Pet Food Product, 2025
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By Pet Type: Dogs Lead While Cats Accelerate Growth

Dogs command 42.25% of the Chine pet food market size in 2025, reflecting their historical dominance in Chinese pet ownership and higher average spending per animal on premium nutrition products. The growth differential reflects changing demographics and lifestyle preferences among Chinese pet owners, with cats gaining favor among millennials and Gen Z consumers who prioritize convenience and emotional companionship over traditional pet ownership models. Major pet food manufacturers in China have responded to this trend by offering premium products, including specialized veterinary diets and grain-free options, targeting urban pet owners who are more willing to spend on high-quality dog food products.

Cats demonstrate superior growth momentum with a 10.56% CAGR through 2031, driven by urban lifestyle compatibility and rising single-person household adoption rates in Tier-1 cities. Cat ownership appeals particularly to younger consumers who value lower maintenance requirements and apartment-friendly characteristics, creating sustained demand for specialized feline nutrition products, including hairball control, urinary health, and indoor lifestyle formulations.

By Distribution Channel: Online Dominance Reshapes Retail Landscape

Online channels dominate with 59.10 of % China pet food market size in 2025, growing at a 9.88% CAGR through 2031 as digital-native consumers embrace e-commerce convenience and subscription-based purchasing models. Tmall and JD.com lead platform sales, while emerging channels like Douyin (TikTok) and Xiaohongshu leverage livestreaming commerce and influencer marketing to drive product discovery and impulse purchases. The online advantage extends beyond convenience to include detailed product information, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations that traditional retail channels struggle to match.

Several factors, including the increasing digitalization of retail, the convenience of home delivery, and the wider product selection available to consumers, drive the supremacy of this channel. Major e-commerce platforms offer competitive pricing, detailed product information, and user reviews that help pet owners make informed purchasing decisions. The segment has particularly benefited from the growing preference among millennial and Gen Z pet owners who prefer digital shopping experiences. Additionally, many online platforms have introduced private label brands that offer quality products at competitive prices, further strengthening their market position.

China Pet Food Market: Market Share by Distribution Channel, 2025
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Geography Analysis

China's pet food market exhibits significant regional variations reflecting economic development patterns, urbanization levels, and cultural attitudes toward pet ownership across different geographic segments. Tier-1 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, account for approximately 35-40% of market value in 2025 despite representing less than 5% of the national population, demonstrating concentrated purchasing power and premium product adoption rates. These metropolitan areas drive premiumization trends, with average spending per pet reaching RMB 3,000-5,000 (USD 420-705) annually .

Tier-2 cities represent the fastest-growing geographic areas driven by rising disposable incomes, expanding middle-class populations, and increasing pet adoption rates among younger demographics. Cities like Hangzhou, Nanjing, Chengdu, and Xi'an demonstrate particular dynamism as regional economic centers with growing populations of educated professionals who view pet ownership as lifestyle enhancement. E-commerce penetration accelerates market development in these regions, enabling access to premium products and international brands previously available only in major metropolitan areas.

Tier-3 cities and rural areas remain underpenetrated but show emerging potential as economic development and urbanization progress throughout China's interior regions. These markets currently focus on basic nutrition products and value-oriented positioning, but demographic trends suggest future premiumization as local incomes rise and pet ownership becomes more culturally accepted. Manufacturing concentration in Tier-3 cities creates employment opportunities and local economic development that may accelerate pet adoption rates, while improved logistics infrastructure enables better product availability and competitive pricing. 

Competitive Landscape

The Chinese pet food market exhibits a highly fragmented competitive landscape with a mix of global multinational corporations and regional players. Global conglomerates like Mars Incorporated, Nestlé, ADM, Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.), and General Mills maintain significant market presence with a share of 11.4% in 2024 through their established brands and extensive distribution networks. These companies leverage their international expertise and research capabilities to introduce advanced nutritional products. Regional players, particularly those based in manufacturing hubs like Tianjin, are gaining prominence by offering products tailored to local preferences and maintaining competitive pricing strategies.

The market is witnessing increasing consolidation through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. Major global players, including Mars, Incorporated, General Mills Inc., ADM, Nestle (Purina), and Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.) are acquiring local manufacturers to expand their manufacturing capabilities and distribution reach in China. Regional players are forming partnerships with international companies to access advanced technologies and expand their product portfolios. The competitive dynamics are further influenced by the emergence of private label brands from major e-commerce platforms, which are gaining market share by offering quality products at competitive prices.

Success in the Chinese pet food market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate and establish strong distribution networks. Incumbent players need to focus on developing premium products with specialized nutritional benefits while maintaining their mass-market offerings. Investment in research and development facilities within China is becoming crucial for understanding local consumer preferences and developing targeted products. Companies must also strengthen their omnichannel presence, particularly on e-commerce platforms, while maintaining relationships with traditional retail channels and veterinary clinics.

China Pet Food Industry Leaders

  1. Mars, Incorporated

  2. General Mills Inc.

  3. ADM

  4. Nestle (Purina)

  5. Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.)

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
China Pet Food Market
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Recent Industry Developments

  • May 2023: Nestle Purina launched new cat treats under the Friskies "Friskies Playfuls - treats" brand. These treats are round in shape and are available in chicken and liver and salmon and shrimp flavors for adult cats.
  • April 2023: Mars Incorporated opened its first pet food research and development center in Asia-Pacific. This new facility, called the APAC pet center, will support the company's product development.
  • March 2023: Blue Buffalo, a subsidiary of General Mills Inc., launched its new high-protein dry dog food line, BLUE Wilderness Premier Blend. It is formulated with chicken and a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Table of Contents for China Pet Food Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study
  • 1.3 Research Methodology

2. REPORT OFFERS

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND KEY FINDINGS

4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • 4.1 Pet Population
    • 4.1.1 Cats
    • 4.1.2 Dogs
    • 4.1.3 Other Pets
  • 4.2 Pet Expenditure
  • 4.3 Consumer Trends

5. SUPPLY AND PRODUCTION DYNAMICS

  • 5.1 Trade Analysis
  • 5.2 Ingredient Trends
  • 5.3 Value Chain and Distribution Channel Analysis
  • 5.4 Regulatory Framework
  • 5.5 Market Drivers
    • 5.5.1 Accelerated premiumization of cat and dog diets
    • 5.5.2 Rise of DTC (Direct-to-Customer) digital-native pet-food brands
    • 5.5.3 Growth of functional/therapeutic nutrition positioning
    • 5.5.4 Human-grade ingredient sourcing mandates from Tier-1 retailers
    • 5.5.5 Expansion of domestic freeze-dried capacity in Tier-3 cities
    • 5.5.6 Cross-border live-stream commerce for exotic pet diets
  • 5.6 Market Restraints
    • 5.6.1 Raw-material price volatility for poultry and fish meals
    • 5.6.2 Rising regulatory scrutiny on labeling claims
    • 5.6.3 Intensifying competition from home-made fresh diets
    • 5.6.4 Carbon-neutral factory compliance costs

6. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE AND VOLUME)

  • 6.1 Pet Food Product
    • 6.1.1 Food
    • 6.1.1.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.1.1.1 Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1 By Sub Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1.1 Kibbles
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1.2 Other Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.2 Wet Pet Food
    • 6.1.2 Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements
    • 6.1.2.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.2.1.1 Milk Bioactives
    • 6.1.2.1.2 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
    • 6.1.2.1.3 Probiotics
    • 6.1.2.1.4 Proteins and Peptides
    • 6.1.2.1.5 Vitamins and Minerals
    • 6.1.2.1.6 Other Nutraceuticals
    • 6.1.3 Pet Treats
    • 6.1.3.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.3.1.1 Crunchy Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.2 Dental Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.3 Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.4 Soft and Chewy Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.5 Other Treats
    • 6.1.4 Pet Veterinary Diets
    • 6.1.4.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.4.1.1 Diabetes
    • 6.1.4.1.2 Digestive Sensitivity
    • 6.1.4.1.3 Oral Care Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.4 Renal
    • 6.1.4.1.5 Urinary tract disease
    • 6.1.4.1.6 Obesity Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.7 Derma Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.8 Other Veterinary Diets
  • 6.2 Pets
    • 6.2.1 Cats
    • 6.2.2 Dogs
    • 6.2.3 Other Pets
  • 6.3 Distribution Channel
    • 6.3.1 Convenience Stores
    • 6.3.2 Online Channel
    • 6.3.3 Specialty Stores
    • 6.3.4 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 6.3.5 Other Channels

7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 7.1 Key Strategic Moves
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Brand Positioning Matrix
  • 7.4 Market Claim Analysis
  • 7.5 Company Landscape
  • 7.6 Company Profiles (Includes Global Level Overview, Market Level Overview, Core Business Segments, Financials, Key Information, Market Rank, Market Share, Products and Services, and Analysis of Recent Developments).
    • 7.6.1 Mars, Incorporated
    • 7.6.2 General Mills Inc.
    • 7.6.3 ADM
    • 7.6.4 Nestle (Purina)
    • 7.6.5 Affinity Petcare S.A
    • 7.6.6 Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company Inc.)
    • 7.6.7 PLB International Inc.
    • 7.6.8 Virbac
    • 7.6.9 Alltech
    • 7.6.10 Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods Inc.)
    • 7.6.11 Shanghai Enova Pet Products Co. Ltd
    • 7.6.12 Shanghai Navarch Pet Products Co. Ltd
    • 7.6.13 Tianjin Ringpu Bio-Pharmacy Co. Ltd
    • 7.6.14 Tongwei Pet Food
    • 7.6.15 Wellpet China

8. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR PET FOOD CEOS

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China Pet Food Market Report Scope

Food, Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements, Pet Treats, and Pet Veterinary Diets are covered as segments by Pet Food Product. Cats, Dogs, and other pets are covered as segments by Pets. Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Specialty Stores, and Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are covered as segments by the Distribution Channel.

Pet Food Product
FoodBy Sub ProductDry Pet FoodBy Sub Dry Pet FoodKibbles
Other Dry Pet Food
Wet Pet Food
Pet Nutraceuticals/SupplementsBy Sub ProductMilk Bioactives
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Probiotics
Proteins and Peptides
Vitamins and Minerals
Other Nutraceuticals
Pet TreatsBy Sub ProductCrunchy Treats
Dental Treats
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
Soft and Chewy Treats
Other Treats
Pet Veterinary DietsBy Sub ProductDiabetes
Digestive Sensitivity
Oral Care Diets
Renal
Urinary tract disease
Obesity Diets
Derma Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
Pets
Cats
Dogs
Other Pets
Distribution Channel
Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
Pet Food ProductFoodBy Sub ProductDry Pet FoodBy Sub Dry Pet FoodKibbles
Other Dry Pet Food
Wet Pet Food
Pet Nutraceuticals/SupplementsBy Sub ProductMilk Bioactives
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Probiotics
Proteins and Peptides
Vitamins and Minerals
Other Nutraceuticals
Pet TreatsBy Sub ProductCrunchy Treats
Dental Treats
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
Soft and Chewy Treats
Other Treats
Pet Veterinary DietsBy Sub ProductDiabetes
Digestive Sensitivity
Oral Care Diets
Renal
Urinary tract disease
Obesity Diets
Derma Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
PetsCats
Dogs
Other Pets
Distribution ChannelConvenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
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Market Definition

  • FUNCTIONS - Pet foods are usually intended to provide complete and balanced nutrition to the pet but are primarily used as functional products. The scope includes the food and supplements consumed by pets including veterinary diets. Supplements/nutraceuticals that are directly supplied to pets are considered within the scope.
  • RESELLERS - Companies engaged in reselling of pet food without value addition have been excluded from the market scope, in order to avoid double counting.
  • END CONSUMERS - Pet owners are considered to be the end-consumers in the market studied.
  • DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS - Supermarkets/hypermarkets, specialty stores, convenience stores, online channels and other channels are considered within the scope. The stores which are exclusively providing pet related basic and custom products are considered within the scope of specialty stores.
KeywordDefinition
Pet FoodThe scope of pet food includes the food that is eatable by pets including food, treats, veterinary diets, and nutraceuticals/supplements.
FoodFood is animal feed intended for consumption by pets. It is formulated to provide essential nutrients and meet the dietary needs of various types of pets, including dogs, cats, and other animals. These are generally segmented into dry and wet pet foods.
Dry Pet FoodDry pet foods may be extruded/baked (kibbles) or flaked. They have a lower moisture content, typically around 12-20%.
Wet Pet FoodWet pet food, also known as canned pet food or moist pet food, generally has a higher moisture content compared to dry pet food, often ranging from 70-80%.
KibblesKibbles are dry, processed pet food in small, bite-sized pieces or pellets. They are specifically formulated to provide balanced nutrition for various domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, and other animals.
TreatsPet Treats are special food items or rewards given to pets, to show affection, and encourage good behavior. They are especially used during training. Pet treats are made from various combinations of meat or meat-derived materials with other ingredients.
Dental TreatsPet dental treats are specialized treats that are formulated to promote good oral hygiene in pets.​
Crunchy TreatsIt is a type of pet treat that has a firm and crispy texture which can be a good source of nutrition for pets.​
Soft and chewy treatsSoft and Chewy pet treats are a type of pet food product that is formulated to be easy to chewy and digest. They are usually made from soft and pliable ingredients, such as meat, poultry, or vegetables, that have been blended and formed into bite-sized pieces or strips.​
Freeze-dried & Jerky TreatsFreeze-dried and jerky treats are snacks given to pets, that are prepared through a special preservation process, without damaging the nutritional content, resulting in long-lasting, nutrient-rich treats.
Urinary Tract Disease DietsThese are commercial diets that are specifically formulated to promote urinary health and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and other urinary problems.​
Renal DietsThese are specialized pet foods formulated to support the health of pets with kidney disease or renal insufficiency.​
Digestive Sensitivity DietsDigestive-sensitive diets are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of pets with digestive issues such as food intolerances, allergies, and sensitivities. These diets are designed to be easily digestible and to reduce the symptoms of digestive problems in pets. ​
Oral Care DietsOral care diets for pets are specially formulated diets produced to promote oral health and hygiene in pets.​
Grain-Free Pet FoodPet food that does not contain common grains like wheat, corn, or soy. Grain-free diets are often preferred by pet owners seeking alternative options or if their pets have specific dietary sensitivities.
Premium Pet FoodHigh-quality pet food formulated with superior ingredients often offers additional nutritional benefits compared to standard pet food.
Natural Pet FoodPet food made from natural ingredients, with minimal processing and without artificial preservatives.
Organic Pet FoodPet food is produced using organic ingredients, free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
ExtrusionA manufacturing process used to produce dry pet food, where ingredients are cooked, mixed, and shaped under high pressure and temperature.
Other PetsOther pets include birds, fish, rabbits, hamsters, ferrets, and reptiles.
PalatabilityThe taste, texture, and aroma of pet food influence its appeal and acceptance by pets.
Complete and Balanced Pet FoodPet food that provides all essential nutrients in appropriate proportions to meet the nutritional needs of pets without additional supplementation.
PreservativesThese are the substances that are added to pet food to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage.
NutraceuticalsFood products that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, often contain bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic effects.
ProbioticsLive beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy balance of gut flora, supporting digestive health and immune function in pets.
AntioxidantsCompounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, promoting cellular health and supporting the immune system in pets.
Shelf-LifeThe duration of which pet food remains safe and nutritionally viable for consumption after its production date.
Prescription dietSpecialized pet food formulated to address specific medical conditions under veterinary supervision.
AllergenA substance that can cause allergic reactions in some pets, leading to food allergies or sensitivities.
Canned foodWet pet food that is packed in cans and contains higher moisture content than dry food.
Limited ingredient diet (LID)Pet food formulated with a reduced number of ingredients to minimize potential allergens.
Guaranteed AnalysisThe minimum or maximum levels of certain nutrients present in pet food.
Weight managementPet food designed to help pets maintain a healthy weight or support weight loss efforts.
Other NutraceuticalsIt includes prebiotics, antioxidants, digestive fiber, enzymes, essential oils and herbs.
Other Veterinary DietsIt includes weight management diets, skin and coat health, cardiac care, and joint care.
Other TreatsIt includes rawhides, mineral blocks, lickables, and catnips.
Other Dry FoodsIt includes cereal flakes, mixers, meal toppers, freeze-dried foods, and air-dried foods.
Other AnimalsIt includes birds, fish, reptiles, and small animals (rabbits, ferrets, hamsters).
Other Distribution ChannelsIt includes veterinary clinics, local unregulated stores, and feed and farm stores.
Proteins and PeptidesProteins are large molecules composed of basic units called amino acids which help in the growth and development of pets. Peptides are the short string of 2 to 50 amino acids.
Omega-3 fatty acidsOmega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats that play a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of Pets
VitaminsVitamins are the essential organic compounds that are essential for vital physiological functioning.
MineralsMinerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances that are essential for various physiological functions in pets.
CKDChronic Kidney Disease
DHADocosahexaenoic Acid
EPAEicosapentaenoic Acid
ALAAlpha-linolenic Acid
BHAButylated Hydroxyanisol
BHTButylated Hydroxytoluene
FLUTDFeline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
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Research Methodology

Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all our reports.

  • Step-1: IDENTIFY KEY VARIABLES: In order to build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step-1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set and the model is built on the basis of these variables.
  • Step-2: Build a Market Model: Market-size estimations for the forecast years are in nominal terms. Inflation is not a part of the pricing, and the average selling price (ASP) is kept constant throughout the forecast period.
  • Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.
  • Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms
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