France Pet Food Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

France Pet Food Market Analysis

The France Pet Food Market size is estimated at 6.18 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 7.64 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.34% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The French pet food industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences and changing retail dynamics. The total pet population in France reached 38.4 million in 2022, reflecting the growing importance of pets in French households. This expansion has led to increased demand for premium and specialized pet nutrition products, with major manufacturers like Mars Incorporated launching innovative products such as Pedigree Multivitamins in 2023, specifically formulated to support pets' immunity, digestion, and joint health. The industry has also witnessed a shift toward natural ingredients and specialized formulations, with companies developing grain-free options and products targeting specific health conditions.

The distribution landscape of pet food in France continues to evolve, with supermarkets and hypermarkets maintaining their dominance by accounting for 71.6% of the market in 2022. These traditional retail channels have strengthened their position by offering extensive product ranges and competitive pricing strategies. Simultaneously, the online channel has emerged as a significant distribution platform, representing 9.8% of the market in 2022, driven by the increasing adoption of e-commerce platforms and the convenience of home delivery services. Major specialty store chains have adapted to this trend by developing omnichannel strategies, combining physical store presence with online platforms.

Product innovation and premiumization have become key focus areas for manufacturers in the French pet food market. Companies are increasingly investing in research and development to create specialized nutrition solutions that address specific health concerns and dietary requirements. For instance, Royal Canin introduced MSC-certified pollock and insect protein products in 2023 for pets with sensitive stomachs and skin conditions, demonstrating the industry's commitment to sustainable and health-focused innovations. This trend is particularly evident in the development of veterinary diets and nutraceutical products that cater to specific health conditions and life stages.

The market is witnessing a notable shift in consumer behavior, with pet owners increasingly treating their pets as family members and seeking high-quality nutrition options. This trend is reflected in the growing demand for premium products and specialized diets. The industry has responded by expanding product portfolios to include a wider range of specialized formulations. For example, Hill's Pet Nutrition launched a new line of prescription diets in 2023 specifically designed to support pets diagnosed with cancer, indicating the market's evolution toward more specialized and condition-specific nutrition solutions. This focus on specialized nutrition and health-oriented products continues to shape product development and marketing strategies in the French pet food industry.

France Pet Food Market Trends

Cats can stay alone and require less maintenance, driving their adoption in the country

• In France, cats were the major pets adopted by pet parents, accounting for 40.6% of the pet population in 2022. The high adoption of cats is because cats are usually more adaptable to smaller living spaces than dogs and can be kept indoors without feeling cooped up. Additionally, cats are more highly regarded than dogs and are considered symbols of good luck or fortune.
• The higher number of cat parents is anticipated to help in the growth of the market for cat food in the country. The population of cats increased by 6.3% between 2019 and 2021. In 2021, there was a high adoption of cats by pet parents in the country; cat owners accounted for 31% of the population, whereas dog owners accounted for 25%. Furthermore, there was a rise in the pet population during the pandemic, and the cat population increased by 3.3% between 2020 and 2022. People adopted more cats during the pandemic to have a companion at home to avoid loneliness. Cats are quieter than dogs and easier to handle, which was helpful during lockdowns in home settings.
• There is less demand for services such as pet walking and pet boarding in the country than in the United States, as French pet parents usually work close to their homes to have lunch with their pets, including cats, and care for them on their own. The government also treats pets, including cats, as citizens because pet parents must have passports for their cats to travel with them.
• The increase in pet humanization, adaptability to smaller living spaces, and ability to be kept indoors are the factors anticipated to help in the growth of the cat population and the pet food market in the country.

The increasing usage of premium pet food has been enhancing the expenditure per pet in the country

• France is one of the major pet food markets in the European Union. There is an increasing trend in the overall pet expenditure in the country. The pet food expenditure increased by about 15.3% between 2019 and 2022. This surge in spending can be attributed to the growing trend of pet humanization and an expanding pet population nationwide. For instance, households owning cats increased from 8.5 million in 2016 to 8.9 million in 2020.
• Between 2019 and 2022, pet owners' annual spending on pet food for dogs increased by around 22.4%, while spending on cats increased by about 22.3%, and other pets saw an increase of about 9.0%. Sales of dog pet food recorded a CAGR of 1.5% from 2016 to 2020, while cat food sales recorded a CAGR of 2.5%. These findings may suggest an increasing trend in overall pet expenditure within the country.
• Pet owners in France are increasingly focused on the health and wellness of their pets. This has led to a rise in demand for natural and target-specific nutrition pet food products. This trend increased demand for premium pet brands such as "Royal Canine," which recorded increased retail sales from 188.5 million in 2016 to 305.6 million in 2022, registering a CAGR of 4.9%.
• The political conflict between Russia and Ukraine in 2022 has affected pet food prices in France. This conflict impacted the procurement of raw materials and subsequently affected pet expenditure in the country. However, the increasing preference for high-quality and premium pet food and the growing awareness of its benefits are anticipated to sustain the growth of pet expenditure during the forecast period.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

• The desire for companionship and a dog-friendly environment is driving the adoption of dogs in the country
• Convenience and improvement of overall mood are increasing the adoption of other pets in the country

Segment Analysis: PET FOOD PRODUCT

Food Products Segment in France Pet Food Market

The food products segment maintains its dominant position in the pet food market in France, accounting for approximately 68% of the total market value in 2024. This substantial market share is primarily driven by the segment's role in providing essential daily nutrition to pets through both dry and wet food options. The segment's leadership is reinforced by the increasing preference among pet owners for commercial pet food products over home-cooked meals, as these products offer complete and balanced nutrition. The wide availability of various food options, including grain-free, organic pet food companies, and breed-specific formulations, has further strengthened this segment's market position. Additionally, the segment's growth is supported by the expanding pet population in France and the rising trend of pet humanization, where owners prioritize high-quality commercial pet food for their pets' well-being.

Pet Treats Segment in France Pet Food Market

The pet treats segment is emerging as the most dynamic category in the pet food market in France, projected to grow at approximately 7% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This remarkable growth is driven by several factors, including the increasing use of treats for training purposes, particularly among young pets, and the growing trend of pet owners using treats to strengthen their bonds with their pets. The segment's expansion is further supported by innovations in treat formulations, including dental treats, functional treats with added health benefits, and premium treats made from natural ingredients. The rising demand for freeze-dried and natural treats, particularly in the premium and super-premium categories, is also contributing to this segment's rapid growth. Additionally, the increasing focus on pet mental stimulation and enrichment activities has led to higher consumption of treats as rewards and engagement tools.

Remaining Segments in Pet Food Products

The pet food market in France is further diversified by the presence of pet nutraceuticals/supplements and veterinary diets segments, each serving specific pet health needs. The pet nutraceuticals segment plays a crucial role in providing targeted nutrition through various products such as vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics, addressing specific health concerns and supporting overall pet wellness. The veterinary diets segment serves a specialized market niche, offering prescription-based therapeutic diets for pets with specific health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and digestive sensitivities. Both segments are experiencing steady growth driven by increasing pet parent awareness about preventive healthcare and the rising prevalence of pet health issues requiring specialized nutrition solutions.

Segment Analysis: PETS

Cats Segment in France Pet Food Market

The cats segment dominates the France pet food market by animal type, accounting for approximately 48% of the total market value in 2024. This significant market share is primarily attributed to France having the largest cat population among pets, with cats accounting for about 41% of the total pet population. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by the higher consumption of commercial pet food products among cat owners, including specialized diets, treats, and premium food options. The increasing trend of pet humanization has led to cat owners being more conscious about their pets' nutrition, driving the demand for high-quality cat food products. Additionally, cats' specific dietary requirements and the growing awareness about the importance of proper nutrition have contributed to the segment's substantial market share.

Dogs Segment in France Pet Food Market

The dogs segment is projected to be the fastest-growing segment in the France pet food market by food type, with an expected CAGR of approximately 4% during 2024-2029. This growth is driven by several factors, including the increasing adoption of dogs as companion animals and the rising trend of premium and specialized dog food products. The segment's growth is also supported by the expanding range of dog food options, including grain-free formulations, breed-specific diets, and functional foods targeting specific health conditions. Furthermore, the growing focus on pet health and wellness has led to increased spending on high-quality dog food products, particularly among urban pet owners who prioritize their pets' nutritional needs.

Remaining Segments in Pet Segments

The other pets segment, which includes birds, fish, small mammals, and reptiles, plays a significant role in shaping the French pet food market dynamics. This segment caters to a diverse range of pets with specific nutritional requirements, contributing to the market's overall diversity. The segment's impact is particularly notable in specialized pet food categories, where manufacturers develop targeted nutrition solutions for different species. The growing popularity of exotic pets and small mammals as household companions has led to increased innovation in pet food formulations, with companies developing species-specific diets and treats to meet the unique dietary needs of these animals.

Segment Analysis: DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Segment in France Pet Food Market

Supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the French pet food market, commanding approximately 71% of the market share in 2024. These retail establishments serve as the primary distribution channel due to their extensive network and comprehensive product offerings. The segment's prominence is attributed to several key factors, including the wide availability of various pet food brands, flavors, and formulations under one roof. These stores offer a convenient shopping experience where consumers can purchase pet food alongside their regular groceries. Additionally, supermarkets and hypermarkets maintain strong relationships with manufacturers, enabling them to offer competitive pricing and frequent promotional campaigns. Major chains like Carrefour, Auchan, Intermarché, Leclerc, and Super U have established themselves as key players in the pet food retail landscape, offering everything from standard pet food products to specialized dietary options.

Online Channel Segment in France Pet Food Market

The online channel has emerged as the fastest-growing distribution segment in the French pet food market, projected to expand at a rate of approximately 6% during 2024-2029. This growth is driven by the increasing digitalization of retail and changing consumer preferences, particularly among urban pet owners with busy lifestyles. E-commerce platforms offer unprecedented convenience through home delivery services and a vast selection of pet food products. The segment's growth is further supported by the adoption of omnichannel strategies by major specialty pet store chains, who have developed their own e-commerce websites to cater to the digital consumer base. Online platforms also provide competitive advantages through personalized recommendations, subscription services, and attractive loyalty programs, making them increasingly popular among tech-savvy pet owners.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The French pet food market is further served by specialty stores, convenience stores, and other channels, each playing a unique role in the distribution landscape. Specialty stores distinguish themselves by offering expert guidance, premium products, and specialized pet food options, particularly catering to pets with specific dietary requirements. Convenience stores, while having a smaller market share, provide essential pet food products with the advantage of extended operating hours and neighborhood accessibility. Other channels, including veterinary clinics and feed stores, serve specific customer segments with specialized needs. These diverse distribution channels ensure that pet owners across France have access to pet food products through their preferred shopping method, contributing to the market's overall robustness and accessibility.