North America Pet Diet Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

North America Pet Diet Market Analysis

The North America Pet Diet Market size is estimated at 11.33 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 18.41 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.19% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The North American pet veterinary diet industry has undergone significant transformation, driven by the growing trend of pet humanization and an increased focus on specialized pet nutrition. Pet veterinary diets have emerged as a crucial segment, accounting for 11.6% of the North American pet food market in 2022, reflecting the increasing emphasis on specialized pet nutrition. This shift is particularly evident in the rising demand for prescription-based diets and therapeutic pet food solutions. The industry has witnessed substantial investments in research and development, with companies focusing on developing innovative formulations that address specific health conditions. Major players are expanding their manufacturing capabilities and implementing advanced production technologies to meet the growing demand for specialized pet nutrition products.

The distribution landscape for pet veterinary diets has evolved significantly, with multichannel strategies becoming increasingly prevalent. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores continue to maintain their significance, with 66% of pet owners purchasing pet food through physical retail locations in 2022. However, the digital transformation has led to a notable shift in purchasing patterns, with online sales of pet care products reaching 40% in 2022. This evolution has prompted manufacturers and retailers to adopt omnichannel approaches, integrating both physical and digital platforms to enhance customer experience and accessibility.

Product innovation and specialized pet nutrition have become key focal points in the industry, with manufacturers developing targeted solutions for specific health conditions. The market has witnessed a particular emphasis on digestive sensitivity and urinary tract disease diets, which collectively represented over 41.5% of veterinary diet sales in 2022. Companies are increasingly investing in developing grain-free options and limited-ingredient diets to address food sensitivities and allergies. In January 2023, Royal Canin demonstrated this trend by launching its SKINTOPIC line, specifically designed to manage canine atopic dermatitis.

Scientific advancement and research collaboration have become fundamental drivers of industry innovation. In 2023, Mars Incorporated partnered with the Broad Institute to create an open-access database of dog and cat genomes, marking a significant step toward developing more effective precision medicines and diets. Similarly, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets partnered with the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) in 2023 to expand the REACH program, combining scientific research with practical healthcare solutions. These collaborations are fostering the development of more sophisticated and effective veterinary diet solutions, incorporating advanced nutritional science and biotechnology.

North America Pet Diet Market Trends

Growing pet humanization and increasing adoptions of cats, particularly by young adults and millennials, driving the cat population

• Cats as pets have been adopted in North America due to the high demand for companionship and less expenditure on pet food for cats compared to other pets. In the region, the number of cats as pets increased by 13.6% between 2017 and 2022 due to a rise in pet humanization and since cats require less space to live. For instance, in the United States, in 2020, 26% of households owned a cat as a pet.
• The United States, Canada, and Mexico witnessed high adoption of cats as pets after the COVID-19 pandemic because there was an increase in pet ownership stimulated by remote work. A higher number of pet owners belong to the millennial generation. For instance, in 2022, millennials accounted for 33% of pet parents in the United States, and in 2020, 40% of the cat pet population was adopted from animal shelters in the United States. Pet parents with high incomes also purchased cats from pet stores, and in 2020, 43% of cat parents in the United States purchased cats from pet stores. Therefore, the cat pet population in North America increased by 5.34% between 2020 and 2022.
• There is a higher adoption of young cats in the United States as compared to adult cats by pet parents. For instance, in 2021, the adopted cat population in the United States was about 684,144, and young cats accounted for 53.5% of the cats adopted in the country. The higher population of millennials being pet parents is expected to help in the growth of veterinary diets during the forecast period as cats will be older in the coming years. Factors such as an increase in the adoption and purchase of cats and an increase in pet humanization are expected to help the growth of the pet population which in turn help in the growth of the pet food market in the region.

The veterinary cost is the second-highest expense incurred by pet parents in North America while increasing premiumization is driving pet expenditure in the region

• An increasing trend in pet expenditure is being witnessed in North America. The rise in pet expenditure is due to the availability of different types of pet food and the growing premiumization of pet food products in the United States and Canada. Pet parents are also spending on premium segments such as customized pet food and natural as well as organic pet food in the region.
• The veterinary cost is the second-highest expense incurred by pet parents in North America. Pet parents, particularly dog owners, provide their pets with veterinary diets in their initial days and services such as pet grooming and pet walking for better care of the pets, along with adequate nutrition. In 2022, the veterinary expenditure was 26.4% of the annual expenditure on pets in the United States. In Canada, pet parents have an annual expenditure, including other services, of about USD 960 for their dogs and USD 711 for cats, as people are willing to spend more on veterinary services than other expenses. In the United States, about 40% of pet parents purchased premium pet food, while USD 11.4 billion was spent on services such as pet grooming and pet walking in 2022.
• Pet parents purchase pet food through online retailers, supermarkets, and pet stores. Pet food sales are higher through online retailers as pet parents have access to a vast number of pet food products available on e-commerce sites, and the pandemic increased online orders. For instance, in the United States, online sales of pet care products, including food, increased from 32% in 2020 to 40% in 2022.
• Premiumization and rising awareness about the benefits of quality food are factors anticipated to have helped in increasing pet expenditure in the region.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

Segment Analysis: SUB PRODUCT

Digestive Sensitivity Segment in North America Pet Diet Market

The Digestive Sensitivity segment maintains its dominant position in the North American pet veterinary diet market, commanding approximately 21% market share in 2024. This segment's leadership is primarily driven by the high prevalence of digestive issues among pets, particularly affecting certain dog breeds such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Collies. The segment's growth is further supported by increasing awareness among pet owners about the connection between digestive health and overall well-being. Many pet food manufacturers have expanded their product offerings to include a wider range of options for pets with digestive issues, including limited ingredient diets, grain-free diets, and novel protein diets. These specialized formulations are designed to address specific digestive sensitivities while ensuring optimal pet nutrition for pets.

Oral Care Diets Segment in North America Pet Diet Market

The Oral Care Diets segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in the North American pet veterinary diet market, projected to grow at approximately 12% during the forecast period 2024-2029. This remarkable growth is attributed to the increasing awareness among pet owners about the importance of dental health in their pets' overall well-being. The segment's expansion is supported by innovative formulations that focus on reducing plaque and tartar formation while maintaining healthy gums and teeth. These diets often contain ingredients that create a feeling of fullness and have an abrasive or hard texture to address dental issues effectively. The growing popularity of grain-free options, especially those that are gluten-free, in the premium and super-premium segments has further accelerated the segment's growth trajectory.

Remaining Segments in Sub Product Segmentation

The other significant segments in the North American pet veterinary diet market include Urinary Tract Disease, Renal, Diabetes, and Other Veterinary Diets, each serving specific health needs of pets. The Urinary Tract Disease segment plays a crucial role in managing and preventing bladder stone formation in pets, while the Renal segment focuses on supporting pets with kidney-related issues through specialized low-protein and low-phosphorus formulations. The Diabetes segment addresses the growing concern of diabetes in pets through carefully formulated diets that help manage blood sugar levels. The Other Veterinary Diets segment encompasses various specialized diets targeting specific conditions such as weight management, cardiac health, and joint support, demonstrating the market's comprehensive approach to pet health management.

Segment Analysis: PETS

Dogs Segment in North America Pet Veterinary Diet Market

The dogs segment dominates the North American pet veterinary diet market, commanding approximately 56% market share in 2024, representing a value of nearly 5.9 billion USD. This significant market position can be attributed to dogs being the most commonly owned pets in North American households and their higher susceptibility to various health conditions requiring dietary management. The segment's dominance is further reinforced by the increasing awareness among dog owners about the importance of specialized nutrition for their pets' health and wellness. Dogs are particularly prone to conditions such as digestive sensitivity, urinary tract diseases, and joint issues, driving the demand for specialized veterinary diet solutions. Additionally, the growing trend of pet humanization and the willingness of dog owners to invest in premium and specialized nutrition solutions has contributed to the segment's market leadership. The segment is also experiencing the fastest growth rate in the market, projected to grow at approximately 12% from 2024 to 2029, driven by factors such as increasing pet adoption rates, rising health consciousness among pet owners, and continuous innovation in specialized diet formulations.

Remaining Segments in Pet Segmentation

The cats and other pets segments play vital roles in shaping the North American pet veterinary diet market landscape. The cats segment represents a significant portion of the market, driven by their unique nutritional requirements and specific health conditions such as urinary tract issues and diabetes. Cat owners are increasingly recognizing the importance of specialized diets in managing and preventing these health conditions. The other pets segment, which includes animals such as birds, small mammals, and rodents, contributes to market diversity by requiring specialized veterinary diet tailored to their specific nutritional needs and health conditions. These segments benefit from the overall trend of pet humanization and increasing awareness about pet health and wellness among owners, though their market impact varies based on factors such as pet population, adoption rates, and specific health requirements.

Segment Analysis: DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL

Online Channel Segment in North America Pet Veterinary Diet Market

The online channel has emerged as the dominant distribution channel in the North American pet veterinary diet market, commanding approximately 33% of the total market value in 2024. This channel's supremacy can be attributed to several key factors, including the cost-effectiveness of direct-to-consumer sales without intermediaries, the convenience of home delivery, and the extensive variety of products available through e-commerce platforms. Major players like Amazon, Chewy, and Petco have strengthened their online presence by offering a comprehensive selection of specialty pet food and functional pet food from different brands. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards online purchasing, fundamentally changing consumer buying behavior. Additionally, these platforms provide detailed product information, customer reviews, and competitive pricing, making it easier for pet owners to make informed decisions about their pets' dietary needs. The segment is experiencing remarkable growth and is projected to expand at around 15% annually from 2024 to 2029, driven by increasing digital adoption among pet owners and continuous improvements in e-commerce infrastructure.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The North American pet veterinary diet market is also served through various other distribution channels, each playing a unique role in meeting consumer needs. Specialty stores remain a crucial channel, offering expert advice and a wide selection of premium products, along with highly knowledgeable staff who can assist in making informed purchasing decisions. Supermarkets and hypermarkets provide the convenience of one-stop shopping, making it easier for pet owners to purchase specialty pet food along with their regular groceries. Convenience stores, while having a smaller market share, serve an important role in providing immediate access to pet veterinary diet, particularly in urban areas. Other channels, including veterinary clinics and small unregulated stores, continue to serve specific market niches, with veterinary clinics particularly important for prescription diets and professional recommendations. Each of these channels contributes to the market's overall accessibility and serves different consumer preferences and shopping patterns.

North America Pet Diet Market Geography Segment Analysis

North America Pet Diet Market in United States

The United States dominates the North American pet veterinary diet market, commanding approximately 89% of the total market value in 2024. As the region's powerhouse, the country is also experiencing remarkable growth, projected to expand at nearly 11% annually from 2024 to 2029. This robust growth is driven by the country's large pet population, sophisticated veterinary infrastructure, and increasing pet owner awareness about specialized pet nutrition. The presence of major retail chains, specialty pet stores, and a well-developed e-commerce ecosystem has made veterinary diets more accessible to pet owners. American pet owners' increasing focus on preventive healthcare and willingness to invest in premium pet food solutions has created a favorable market environment. The country's veterinary professionals play a crucial role in recommending specialized diets, while pet insurance coverage for preventive care has made these products more affordable for many pet owners. Additionally, the trend of pet humanization and the growing recognition of pets as family members has led to increased spending on specialized pet nutrition solutions.

North America Pet Diet Market in Canada

Canada represents a significant market for pet veterinary diets, characterized by its sophisticated pet care infrastructure and high pet ownership rates. The country's market is driven by strong veterinary healthcare standards and increasing awareness among pet owners about the importance of specialized pet nutrition. Canadian pet owners demonstrate a growing preference for premium pet food and therapeutic pet food products, particularly in urban areas where access to veterinary services and specialty pet stores is abundant. The country's regulatory framework, which ensures high standards for pet food safety and quality, has fostered trust among consumers in veterinary diet products. The market benefits from a well-established distribution network, including veterinary clinics, specialty pet stores, and online retailers, making these specialized products readily available to pet owners. Additionally, the increasing adoption of pet insurance and the growing trend of preventive healthcare have contributed to the market's development. The presence of major international pet food manufacturers and their continued investment in the Canadian market has led to a wide variety of veterinary diet options being available to pet owners.

North America Pet Diet Market in Mexico

Mexico's pet veterinary diets market demonstrates strong potential, supported by the country's growing middle class and increasing pet ownership rates. The market is characterized by rising awareness about pet health and pet nutrition, particularly in urban areas where access to veterinary services is more prevalent. Mexican pet owners are increasingly recognizing the importance of specialized nutrition in managing various pet health conditions, leading to higher adoption of veterinary diets. The country's veterinary professionals play a crucial role in educating pet owners about the benefits of therapeutic nutrition, contributing to market growth. The expansion of pet specialty stores and veterinary clinics in major cities has improved access to these specialized products. International pet food manufacturers have been actively expanding their presence in Mexico, introducing new products and investing in distribution networks. The market also benefits from the growing trend of pet humanization and the increasing willingness of pet owners to spend on premium pet food products. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce platforms has made veterinary diets more accessible to pet owners across the country.

North America Pet Diet Market in Other Countries

The pet veterinary diets market in other North American countries, including Jamaica, Cuba, Panama, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and Guatemala, exhibits varying degrees of development and potential. These markets are characterized by growing pet ownership rates and increasing awareness about pet health and nutrition. The veterinary diet segment in these countries is primarily driven by urban areas where access to veterinary services and specialty pet stores is more prevalent. These markets benefit from the presence of international pet food manufacturers who are gradually expanding their distribution networks and product offerings. The growing trend of pet humanization and rising disposable incomes in these countries are contributing to increased spending on specialized pet nutrition. While these markets may be smaller in size compared to the major North American markets, they demonstrate potential for growth as pet care awareness continues to rise and veterinary infrastructure develops. The expansion of e-commerce platforms and improvement in distribution networks are expected to enhance access to veterinary diet products in these markets.

Free With This Report

We provide a complimentary and exhaustive set of data points on regional and country-level metrics that present the fundamental structure of the industry. Presented in the form of 90+ free charts, the section covers difficult-to-find data from various countries regarding the expenditure on different pet food products including food, treats, veterinary diets, and nutraceuticals/supplements.