Pet Treats Market Size and Share
Market Overview
| Study Period | 2018 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2026) | USD 32.79 Billion |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 45.69 Billion |
| Growth Rate (2026 - 2031) | 6.85% CAGR |
| Fastest Growing Market | North America |
| Largest Market | North America |
| Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0. |
|
Pet Treats Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence
pet treats market size in 2026 is estimated at USD 32.79 billion, growing from 2025 value of USD 30.69 billion with 2031 projections showing USD 45.69 billion, growing at 6.85% CAGR over 2026-2031. Strong growth stems from the deepening humanization of companion animals, durable demand for functional nutrition, and the emotional attachment owners have to reward rituals that persist even when discretionary spending is tight. Within the broader pet care economy, the pet treats market represents a unique blend of essential wellness products and affordable luxury, enabling manufacturers to maintain volumes despite rising price elasticity elsewhere. Premium-positioned treats centered on dental health, single-source proteins, and gut-health additives establish the tone for competitive differentiation, while digital subscriptions enhance lifetime value and enable data-driven personalization of formulations.
Key Report Takeaways
- By sub product, crunchy treats held 22.85% of the pet treats market share in 2025, while soft and chewy treats are forecast to grow at an 7.98% CAGR through 2031.
- By pet type, the dogs segment commanded a 52.86% share of the pet treats market size in 2025, and is projected to expand at a 7.39% CAGR through 2031.
- By distribution channel, specialty stores led with a 33.72% of the pet treats market share in 2025, and the online channel is anticipated to record the highest CAGR at 7.92% through 2031.
- By geography, North America secured 39.35% of the pet treats market share in 2025, and is anticipated to grow at a 7.58% CAGR over the same period.
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.
Global Pet Treats Market Trends and Insights
Drivers Impact Analysis
| Driver | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Humanization of Pets and Premiumization of Treats | +1.8% | Global, strongest in North America and Europe | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Accelerated Dental-Health Focus in Companion Animals | +1.2% | North America and Europe, expanding to the Asia-Pacific | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Expansion of DTC Subscription Models for Treats | +0.9% | North America and Europe, and emerging in the Asia-Pacific | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Functional Treats with Probiotic and CBD Infusion | +1.1% | North America and Europe, regulatory barriers in Asia | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Up-Cycling of Meat By-Products into Sustainable Treats | +0.7% | Global, led by Europe and North America | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| AI-Driven Personalized Treat Formulations | +0.5% | North America and Europe, pilot programs in Asia | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Humanization of Pets and Premiumization of Treats
Pet owners increasingly treat companion animals as family members, driving demand for human-grade ingredients and artisanal formulations that mirror premium food trends. This behavioral shift transforms treats from simple rewards into wellness investments, with owners willing to pay premiums for organic certification, single-source proteins, and transparent supply chains. General Mills' USD 1.45 billion acquisition of Whitebridge Pet Brands in November 2024 specifically targeted the premium cat feeding and treat segments, recognizing their combined USD 24 billion retail value within the broader USD 52 billion United States pet food market. The humanization trend creates sustainable competitive advantages for brands that successfully communicate ingredient provenance and transparency in their manufacturing processes [1]Source: “Petco Releases 2023 ESG Report,” Petco Health and Wellness Company, petco.com.
Accelerated Dental-Health Focus in Companion Animals
Veterinary professionals increasingly recommend daily dental chews as a preventive measure, transforming oral health treats from occasional purchases into a routine part of healthcare. This clinical endorsement drives consistent demand patterns that resist economic downturns, as pet owners prioritize veterinarian-recommended products over discretionary treats. The Veterinary Oral Health Council's seal of approval has become a critical differentiator, with VOHC-certified products commanding premium pricing and preferred shelf placement in specialty retail channels. Regulatory frameworks, such as those established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), provide nutritional adequacy standards that support veterinary recommendations and foster consumer confidence in dental-specific treat formulations.
Expansion of DTC Subscription Models for Treats
Direct-to-consumer subscription services transform treat purchasing from impulse-driven transactions into predictable revenue streams, with auto-delivery models capturing 40% of pet food sales through digital channels. This shift enables brands to gather consumption data and personalize offerings while reducing customer acquisition costs through retention-focused strategies. Subscription models, particularly those in functional treatment categories, benefit from consistent dosing schedules that maximize health benefits and justify premium pricing. The model's success depends on sophisticated logistics capabilities and packaging innovations that maintain product freshness during extended shipping cycles. Chewy's market leadership in e-commerce demonstrates the scalability of subscription models. The company's reduced revenue expectations for 2024 highlight the competitive pressures and challenges it faces in customer acquisition.
Functional Treats with Probiotic and CBD Infusion
Manufacturers increasingly blur the line between treats and supplements by incorporating probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and hemp-derived compounds that address specific health conditions. This convergence creates higher-margin products that justify premium pricing through documented health benefits, rather than relying solely on palatability. Probiotic treats particularly benefit from growing awareness of gut health's impact on overall pet wellness, with formulations targeting digestive issues, immune support, and stress reduction. The functional treat segment requires significant R&D investment and clinical validation, creating barriers to entry that protect market leaders' positions. Consumer education becomes critical for functional treats, as benefits may not be immediately apparent compared to traditional palatability-focused products.
Restraints Impact Analysis
| Restraint | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Inflation in Key Animal-Protein Inputs | -1.4% | Global, particularly North America and Europe | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Regulatory Scrutiny of Novel Functional Ingredients | -0.8% | North America and Europe, expanding globally | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Carbon-Labeling Pressure from ESG-Minded Retailers | -0.6% | Europe and North America, emerging in Asia-Pacific | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Rising Competition from Homemade Treat Communities | -0.5% | Global, strongest in developed markets | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Price Inflation in Key Animal-Protein Inputs
Rising costs for poultry, beef, and fish proteins create margin pressure across all treat categories, with manufacturers facing difficult choices between price increases and reformulation strategies. Protein ingredients typically account for 40-60% of treat production costs, making input price volatility a critical factor affecting profitability and influencing investment decisions and capacity expansion plans. European markets experienced price increases of 14.8% in the pet category in Germany and 12.1% in the United Kingdom during 2023, prompting consumers to shift toward private-label alternatives and value-oriented formulations [2]Source: “PETS International, February 2024,” PETS International, petsinternational.com .
Regulatory Scrutiny of Novel Functional Ingredients
Increasing government oversight of CBD (Central Board of Direct Taxes), insect proteins, and other innovative ingredients creates compliance costs and market entry delays that particularly impact smaller manufacturers with limited regulatory expertise. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA's evolving guidance on hemp-derived compounds in pet products creates uncertainty that slows product development cycles and increases legal risks for early adopters. European regulations, based on guidelines from the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF), impose stricter safety requirements for novel ingredients, creating additional barriers for companies seeking to introduce functional treats across multiple markets.
Segment Analysis
By Sub Product: Functional Innovation Drives Category Evolution
Crunchy treats maintain market leadership with 22.85% share in 2025, benefiting from established consumer preferences and manufacturing cost advantages that enable competitive pricing across all retail channels. These treats have gained significant traction among pet owners due to their versatility in training and rewarding purposes, especially with younger pets. Dogs hold the largest share within the crunchy treats segment, accounting for nearly 54% of consumption, followed by cats and other animals, highlighting the widespread appeal across different pet categories. The segment's growth is further supported by specialty stores and supermarkets/hypermarkets, which serve as major distribution channels, offering convenience and a wide range of products to consumers.
Soft and chewy treats emerge as the fastest-growing segment, with an 7.98% CAGR through 2031, driven by their superior capacity for incorporating functional ingredients and palatability advantages that support premium positioning. Soft and chewy treats offer a different texture profile that appeals to pets with specific preferences or dental sensitivities, making them particularly popular among cat owners. These segments are complemented by various other treat types, including lickable treats, cakes, catnips, and mineral blocks, which cater to diverse pet preferences and functional needs. Each segment contributes to the market's diversity by offering specialized solutions for different pet ages, sizes, and health requirements.
Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
By Pet Type: Canine Dominance with Emerging Opportunities
Dogs command a 52.86% market share in 2025, growing at a 7.39% CAGR through 2031, reflecting market maturity in developed regions and expansion opportunities in emerging markets, where pet ownership patterns continue to evolve. The canine segment benefits from established treat-giving behaviors and diverse product categories ranging from training rewards to dental chews, creating multiple purchase occasions and price points that maximize market penetration.
Dogs have shown a particularly strong affinity for treats, which are extensively used in training and behavioral reinforcement. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by the wide variety of treat options available specifically for dogs, including dental treats, crunchy treats, and freeze-dried varieties. Additionally, the segment benefits from higher per-capita consumption rates among dogs and their owners' increasing willingness to invest in premium and specialized treat products.
By Distribution Channel: Digital Transformation Accelerates
Specialty stores are projected to maintain a 33.72% market share in 2025, driven by expert consultation and premium product curation. These stores play a vital role in meeting the evolving needs and preferences of pet owners by providing a wide selection of pet treat products, including premium, natural, organic, grain-free, and hypoallergenic options. The success of specialty stores can be attributed to several factors, including the availability of knowledgeable staff who provide personalized recommendations based on pets' health conditions and taste preferences, a broader variety of pet treats compared to general stores or supermarkets, and the ability to offer veterinarian-approved treats for specific health conditions.
Online channel is projected to grow at an 7.92% CAGR through 2031, as subscription models and direct-to-consumer strategies reshape purchasing patterns. The channel divergence reflects the dual nature of treats as impulse purchases and planned health investments, with digital platforms excelling at subscription delivery while physical stores provide tactile evaluation and immediate gratification. Online retailers are also leveraging data analytics to offer personalized recommendations and competitive pricing strategies, making it increasingly attractive for pet owners to purchase treats through digital platforms.
Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
Geography Analysis
North America maintains its position as the largest regional market, with a 39.35% share in 2025, with a CAGR of 7.58% through 2031, supported by mature pet ownership patterns, where over 70% of households own pets, and the average annual spending per pet-owning household reaches USD 938 . The region's growth trajectory reflects premiumization trends and the adoption of functional ingredients, with veterinary-recommended dental treats and subscription-based delivery models driving consistent demand patterns that are resilient to economic volatility.
The Asia-Pacific region emerges as the fastest-growing, driven by China's expanding pet ownership and South Korea's advanced e-commerce infrastructure, which enables sophisticated subscription models and personalized nutrition services. India's pet food market shows particular promise, driven by growing urban populations and increasing disposable income. Cultural preferences and price sensitivity necessitate the development and distribution of localized products.
Europe exhibits sophisticated demand patterns, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and organic certification, driving innovation in upcycled ingredients and carbon-neutral packaging solutions that shape global industry standards. The region's regulatory framework under European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) guidelines creates compliance requirements that favor established players while ensuring product safety and quality standards that support premium positioning.
Competitive Landscape
The pet treats market exhibits a relatively moderate fragmented structure, dominated by large multinational corporations with diverse product portfolios that span multiple pet care categories. These major players leverage their established brand recognition, extensive distribution networks, and significant research and development capabilities to maintain their market positions. The market is characterized by the presence of both diversified consumer goods conglomerates and specialized pet care companies, with the former benefiting from cross-category synergies and established retail relationships. Regional players maintain their presence through specialized product offerings and a strong understanding of local markets, although their market share remains limited compared to global leaders.
The industry has witnessed significant merger and acquisition activity, with larger companies acquiring smaller, innovative brands to expand their product portfolios and market reach. These acquisitions primarily target companies with strong positions in premium and natural treat segments, as well as those with an established presence in high-growth markets. Market leaders are also pursuing vertical integration strategies through the acquisition of manufacturing facilities and distribution networks to strengthen their control over the supply chain and operational efficiency.
Success in the pet treats industry increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate across product formulations, packaging, and marketing strategies. Manufacturers need to focus on developing premium and functional treats that address specific health concerns while maintaining palatability. Building strong relationships with veterinarians and pet care professionals has become crucial for product endorsement and distribution. Companies must also invest in digital capabilities to capitalize on the growing e-commerce channel while maintaining a strong presence in traditional retail formats. Sustainable packaging solutions and transparent ingredient sourcing are becoming increasingly important for maintaining consumer trust and market share.
Pet Treats Industry Leaders
-
Mars, Incorporated
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Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.)
-
General Mills Inc.
-
Nestle (Purina)
-
The J.M. Smucker Company
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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.
- May 2023: Virbac acquired its distributor (GS Partners) in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, which became Virbac's 35th subsidiary. This new subsidiary allows Virbac to expand its presence more in these countries.
- 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.
Global Pet Treats Market Report Scope
Crunchy Treats, Dental Treats, Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats, Soft & Chewy Treats are covered as segments by Sub Product. Cats, Dogs are covered as segments by Pets. Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are covered as segments by Distribution Channel. Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, South America are covered as segments by Region.| Crunchy Treats |
| Dental Treats |
| Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats |
| Soft and Chewy Treats |
| Other Treats |
| Cats |
| Dogs |
| Other Pets |
| Convenience Stores |
| Online Channel |
| Specialty Stores |
| Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
| Other Channels |
| Africa | By Country | South Africa |
| Rest of Africa | ||
| Asia-Pacific | By Country | Australia |
| China | ||
| India | ||
| Indonesia | ||
| Japan | ||
| Malaysia | ||
| Philippines | ||
| Taiwan | ||
| Thailand | ||
| Vietnam | ||
| Rest of Asia-Pacific | ||
| Europe | By Country | France |
| Germany | ||
| Italy | ||
| Netherlands | ||
| Poland | ||
| Russia | ||
| Spain | ||
| United Kingdom | ||
| Rest of Europe | ||
| North America | By Country | Canada |
| Mexico | ||
| United States | ||
| Rest of North America | ||
| South America | By Country | Argentina |
| Brazil | ||
| Rest of South America |
| Sub Product | Crunchy Treats | ||
| Dental Treats | |||
| Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats | |||
| Soft and Chewy Treats | |||
| Other Treats | |||
| Pets | Cats | ||
| Dogs | |||
| Other Pets | |||
| Distribution Channel | Convenience Stores | ||
| Online Channel | |||
| Specialty Stores | |||
| Supermarkets/Hypermarkets | |||
| Other Channels | |||
| Geography | Africa | By Country | South Africa |
| Rest of Africa | |||
| Asia-Pacific | By Country | Australia | |
| China | |||
| India | |||
| Indonesia | |||
| Japan | |||
| Malaysia | |||
| Philippines | |||
| Taiwan | |||
| Thailand | |||
| Vietnam | |||
| Rest of Asia-Pacific | |||
| Europe | By Country | France | |
| Germany | |||
| Italy | |||
| Netherlands | |||
| Poland | |||
| Russia | |||
| Spain | |||
| United Kingdom | |||
| Rest of Europe | |||
| North America | By Country | Canada | |
| Mexico | |||
| United States | |||
| Rest of North America | |||
| South America | By Country | Argentina | |
| Brazil | |||
| Rest of South America | |||
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.
| Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|
| Pet Food | The scope of pet food includes the food that is eatable by pets including food, treats, veterinary diets, and nutraceuticals/supplements. |
| Food | Food 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 Food | Dry pet foods may be extruded/baked (kibbles) or flaked. They have a lower moisture content, typically around 12-20%. |
| Wet Pet Food | Wet 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%. |
| Kibbles | Kibbles 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. |
| Treats | Pet 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 Treats | Pet dental treats are specialized treats that are formulated to promote good oral hygiene in pets. |
| Crunchy Treats | It 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 treats | Soft 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 Treats | Freeze-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 Diets | These are commercial diets that are specifically formulated to promote urinary health and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and other urinary problems. |
| Renal Diets | These are specialized pet foods formulated to support the health of pets with kidney disease or renal insufficiency. |
| Digestive Sensitivity Diets | Digestive-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 Diets | Oral care diets for pets are specially formulated diets produced to promote oral health and hygiene in pets. |
| Grain-Free Pet Food | Pet 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 Food | High-quality pet food formulated with superior ingredients often offers additional nutritional benefits compared to standard pet food. |
| Natural Pet Food | Pet food made from natural ingredients, with minimal processing and without artificial preservatives. |
| Organic Pet Food | Pet food is produced using organic ingredients, free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). |
| Extrusion | A manufacturing process used to produce dry pet food, where ingredients are cooked, mixed, and shaped under high pressure and temperature. |
| Other Pets | Other pets include birds, fish, rabbits, hamsters, ferrets, and reptiles. |
| Palatability | The taste, texture, and aroma of pet food influence its appeal and acceptance by pets. |
| Complete and Balanced Pet Food | Pet food that provides all essential nutrients in appropriate proportions to meet the nutritional needs of pets without additional supplementation. |
| Preservatives | These are the substances that are added to pet food to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage. |
| Nutraceuticals | Food products that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, often contain bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic effects. |
| Probiotics | Live beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy balance of gut flora, supporting digestive health and immune function in pets. |
| Antioxidants | Compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, promoting cellular health and supporting the immune system in pets. |
| Shelf-Life | The duration of which pet food remains safe and nutritionally viable for consumption after its production date. |
| Prescription diet | Specialized pet food formulated to address specific medical conditions under veterinary supervision. |
| Allergen | A substance that can cause allergic reactions in some pets, leading to food allergies or sensitivities. |
| Canned food | Wet 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 Analysis | The minimum or maximum levels of certain nutrients present in pet food. |
| Weight management | Pet food designed to help pets maintain a healthy weight or support weight loss efforts. |
| Other Nutraceuticals | It includes prebiotics, antioxidants, digestive fiber, enzymes, essential oils and herbs. |
| Other Veterinary Diets | It includes weight management diets, skin and coat health, cardiac care, and joint care. |
| Other Treats | It includes rawhides, mineral blocks, lickables, and catnips. |
| Other Dry Foods | It includes cereal flakes, mixers, meal toppers, freeze-dried foods, and air-dried foods. |
| Other Animals | It includes birds, fish, reptiles, and small animals (rabbits, ferrets, hamsters). |
| Other Distribution Channels | It includes veterinary clinics, local unregulated stores, and feed and farm stores. |
| Proteins and Peptides | Proteins 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 acids | Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats that play a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of Pets |
| Vitamins | Vitamins are the essential organic compounds that are essential for vital physiological functioning. |
| Minerals | Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances that are essential for various physiological functions in pets. |
| CKD | Chronic Kidney Disease |
| DHA | Docosahexaenoic Acid |
| EPA | Eicosapentaenoic Acid |
| ALA | Alpha-linolenic Acid |
| BHA | Butylated Hydroxyanisol |
| BHT | Butylated Hydroxytoluene |
| FLUTD | Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease |
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
