Europe Pet Food Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Wet Pet Food, Dry Pet Food, Snacks/Treats), By Pet Type (Cats, Dogs), By Category, By Distribution Channel (Convenience Stores, E-commerce), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Europe Pet Food Market Size & Trends

The Europe pet food market size was estimated at USD 36.39 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2025 to 2030. The humanization of pets is a significant driver in the European pet food industry, with pet owners seeking food options that align with their tastes and preferences. This has led to a rise in premium pet food products, including natural, raw, and organic options, giving pet parents a wide variety of choices. Consumers are now more invested in their pets' health, pushing demand for high-quality ingredients and specialized diets.

Specialist pet food products targeting specific health benefits have seen strong growth, with luxury, healthy, and functional foods becoming mainstream. Pet owners are increasingly focused on their pets' nutrition, leading to a shift from basic pet foods to more sophisticated formulas that not only provide essential nutrients but also promote overall well-being.

The pet food market in Europe offers a wide range of options, from complete raw meals to wet, dry, and specially formulated treats. FEDIAF, representing pet food manufacturers across Europe, emphasizes the importance of blending diverse ingredients like meat, fish, vegetables, and vitamins to create nutritionally balanced and enjoyable meals for pets. This variety allows owners to choose products that cater specifically to their pets' needs.

As per the data published by the FEDIAF in 2023, there were approximately 340 million pets in Europe in 91 million households in 2022, and approximately 46% of the households in Europe own at least one pet. Moreover, 26% and 25% of the households owned cats and dogs as pets, respectively. According to the same report, Europe is home to 150 pet food manufacturers with more than 200 production plants in Europe, as customized products, comprising those aiming at health benefits, continue to be popular and are estimated to witness significant growth in the near future.

Manufacturers are focusing on cleaner labels, using natural and organic ingredients, and avoiding artificial additives and preservatives. This aligns with the preferences of health-conscious pet owners who want to provide their pets with the best possible nutrition. As a result, the market is seeing an influx of wet pet food products that emphasize high quality, wholesome ingredients, further fueling market growth.

In April 2025, BioCraft Pet Nutrition and Prefera Petfood announced the launch of Europe’s first cat food made almost entirely from cultured mouse meat, marking a major milestone in sustainable and innovative pet nutrition. The new product, called “mouse mousse,” is composed of 99% animal cell-cultured mouse meat, closely mimicking a cat’s natural prey diet while aiming to surpass conventional pet food in nutritional quality and safety.

Consumer Insights

The market in Europe is witnessing steady growth, driven by rising pet ownership and a growing trend of treating pets as family members. This expansion reflects the increased willingness of consumers to spend more on pet well-being, including premium food, health supplements, and tailored diets. Across Europe, approximately 150 pet companies produce 10.5 million tonnes of pet food, which is provided to many of the 91 million European households benefiting from the love and companionship of their 340+ million pets. There are around 127 million cats, 104 million dogs, 53 million birds, 29 million small mammals, 22 million aquariums, and 11 million terraria.

As of 2023, there were over 340 million companion animals in Europe, including around 105 million cats and 91 million dogs. Over 46% of European households own at least one pet, with cats being slightly more popular than dogs in countries like Germany and France.

Country-specific data reveals diverse pet ownership trends. In France, 32% of households owned a cat, while 20% had a dog, contributing to a total pet population of 74 million, with fish being the most common at 29.1 million. Germany's pet population saw a slight decrease to 34.4 million, down by 300,000 from the previous year. The UK experienced a reduction in pet-owning households by 1.2 million, bringing the total to 16.2 million in 2023; 34% of these households owned dogs, and 28% owned cats. In Italy, 21% of households had dogs, and 24% had cats, totaling 65 million pets nationwide.

Sustainability is a rising priority for pet owners, particularly among younger consumers. This includes preferences for eco-friendly packaging, ethically sourced and plant-based ingredients, and brands with strong sustainability credentials. There is also increasing demand for recyclable and biodegradable packaging, as well as carbon-neutral and locally sourced products.

There is increasing interest in functional ingredients such as probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants for preventive health. Alternative proteins, including insect and plant-based sources, as well as lab-grown and algae-based proteins, are gaining traction as sustainable options.

Furthermore, the digital and e-commerce landscape has been pivotal in shaping consumer product adoption trends in the market. The ease of online shopping and the availability of information through digital platforms have empowered consumers to make informed choices about their snack purchases. Brands leveraging e-commerce channels and employing digital marketing strategies are well-positioned to reach and engage with a broad audience in the competitive pet food industry.

Product Insights

Dry pet food accounted for a revenue share of 44.8% in 2024. The market for dry pet food in Europe is witnessing steady growth, driven by its convenience, extended shelf life, and ease of storage and feeding when compared to wet or fresh pet food alternatives. Urban pet owners appreciate dry food for its affordability, cleanliness, and practicality. European consumers are increasingly selecting dry food options tailored to specific dietary requirements, enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and functional ingredients that support pet health.

The pet snacks/treats segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2025 to 2030. Pet parents in Europe are increasingly purchasing snacks and treats for their pets due to a growing focus on pet well-being, emotional bonding, and functional health benefits. As pets are increasingly regarded as family members, European consumers are not just feeding their animals out of necessity but also to reward them, show affection, and reinforce positive behavior. Treats serve as tools for training, comfort, and celebration, making them a key part of daily pet care routines.

Pet Type Insights

Pet food for dogs accounted for a revenue share of 47.3% in 2024. Many pet parents are more informed about the importance of providing balanced and nutritionally complete diets for their dogs. With an increasing focus on pet health, dog food formulations are now tailored to meet specific dietary needs, including breed-specific, age-specific, or health-specific options. This includes food designed to support joint health, digestive function, skin, and coat quality, and even mental well-being.

Pet food for cats is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2025 to 2030. Cat food, particularly in forms like dry kibble and wet pouches, offers a convenient and time-saving option for busy pet parents. Unlike homemade meals, which may require significant preparation, commercially available cat food is easy to store, easy to serve, and provides the right balance of nutrients in one package. Its long shelf life, especially in dry food formats, also makes it an attractive option for many cat owners.

Category Insights

Traditional pet food for commuters accounted for a revenue share of 86.5% in 2024. Traditional pet foods, particularly dry kibble and canned meals, are incredibly convenient for pet owners. They require little to no preparation, have a long shelf life, and are easy to store. This makes them ideal for busy pet parents who may not have the time or resources to prepare fresh or homemade meals for their pets. The simplicity of measuring out servings and the minimal mess involved also appeal to urban pet owners living in smaller spaces.

Specialist veterinary nutrition pet food is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.4% from 2025 to 2030. The specialist veterinary nutrition pet food segment is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing humanization of pets and heightened awareness of their specific health needs. Pet owners are seeking tailored dietary solutions to manage conditions like digestive sensitivities, obesity, and allergies. This demand has led to a surge in premium, vet-recommended diets formulated with functional ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants. The convenience of e-commerce platforms has further facilitated access to these specialized products, contributing to the market's expansion.

Distribution Channel Insights

Sales of pet food through pet specialty stores accounted for a revenue share of 29.5% in 2024. These stores offer a curated selection of high-quality, niche, and premium pet food products that cater to specific dietary needs and health concerns, aligning with the growing trend of pet humanization and premiumization. Consumers are increasingly seeking transparency in ingredients and nutritional information, which specialty retailers are more likely to provide. In addition, these stores often employ knowledgeable staff who can offer personalized advice and recommendations, enhancing the shopping experience for pet owners.

Sales of pet food through online/e-commerce channels are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2025 to 2030. The demand for pet food in Europe is increasingly shifting toward online channels, driven by higher digital adoption, the convenience of shopping from home, and the ability to access a broader range of products. E-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Zooplus, and local online pet stores enable health-conscious pet parents to explore a variety of brands, compare ingredients, and read customer reviews before making a purchase. In addition, the rise of health-focused direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands, which leverage social media and influencer marketing, has enhanced their online visibility and attracted more European consumers looking for high-quality, specialized pet food options.

Regional Insights

The pet food market in the UK is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.6% from 2025 to 2030. As per the UK Pet Food Report 2024, the UK has a total population of 13.5 million and 12.5 million dogs and cats, respectively, and is one of the prominent markets for pet food in Europe in 2024. The pet food market in the country complies with stringent standards and over 50 different legislations to manufacture wet pet food products of the highest quality and safety.

Germany Pet Food Market Trends

The Germany pet food market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.9% from 2025 to 2030. According to the International Trade Administration, as of 2023, 45% of German households own at least one pet, with 14% owning two or more, amounting to approximately 34.3 million pets. Cats are the most common, found in 25% of households, followed by dogs in 21%. Small mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles make up 17% of the pet population. This extensive pet ownership, especially of cats and dogs, fuels growth in the German wet pet food industry, as pet owners increasingly seek premium, tailored nutrition to ensure their pets' health and well-being.

Key Europe Pet Food Company Insights

Pet food manufacturers in the European region are increasingly adopting advanced food processing technologies to improve product quality, flavor, and nutritional content. In addition, manufacturers are incorporating innovative packaging solutions, such as resealable and biodegradable options, to enhance convenience and sustainability. Customization is also becoming a key trend, with brands offering a variety of seasoning blends, organic options, and personalized snack or treat packs to cater to the diverse preferences of pet owners across the region. These innovations reflect the industry's response to consumer demand for higher-quality, more sustainable, and tailored pet food products.

Recent Developments

• In February 2025, Nestlé Purina PetCare is expanding its innovative pyramid-shaped wet cat food range in Europe and the U.S., reinforcing its focus on premiumization and product innovation. In Europe, the company is launching a new jelly-based variant under the Gourmet Revelations brand, featuring finely diced tender cuts in transparent jelly that are available in salmon, chicken, and white fish flavors. This new line, set to roll out across 15 European markets in 2025 with further expansion planned for 2026, builds on Purina’s research into feline behavior, emphasizing the importance of shape and texture in encouraging natural eating habits such as wide biting, licking, and chewing.

• In February 2025, French pet food producer Natura Plus Ultra Pet Food expanded its manufacturing capabilities to meet rising demand and broaden its product range. This expansion follows the introduction of four new kibble recipes for dogs and cats featuring fresh poultry and salmon. Looking ahead to 2025, Natura Plus Ultra Pet Food plans to continue innovating with new products tailored to specific animal needs, particularly by expanding its Care range for dogs with targeted health issues and launching new treat lines for both dogs and cats.

• In March 2025, German pet food maker Marsapet, in partnership with sustainable protein producer Calysta, launched MicroBell, the first dry dog kibble made with FeedKind, a novel protein created through gas fermentation using methane as a carbon source for microbes. This grain-free, vegan product combines FeedKind with sweet potatoes, peas, and other ingredients, making it suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. FeedKind is highly nutrient-dense (up to 71% protein), non-GMO, and certified vegan, offering a balanced amino acid profile and proven gut health benefits.

Europe Pet Food Market Report Scope

Europe Pet Food Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the regional and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the Europe pet food market report based on product, pet, category, distribution channel, and region:

• Product Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Wet Pet Food

  • Dry Pet Food

  • Snacks/Treats

• Pet Type Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Cats

  • Dogs

  • Others

• Category Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Traditional Pet Food

  • Specialist Veterinary Nutrition

    • Cats

    • Dogs

    • Others

• Distribution Channel Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Supermarkets & Hypermarkets

  • Convenience Stores

  • E-commerce

  • Pet Specialty Stores

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain