Global Cat Food Market - 2024-2031

Report Overview

Global Cat Food Market reached US$ 39.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 56.2 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 4.61% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

The market for cat food is increasing with rising pet ownership and the humanization of pets, as owners prioritize high-quality nutrition. In 2023, premium cat food brands have seen a 15% increase in sales, with the average cat owner spending about US$ 500 annually on cat food, according to the Worldmetrics organization. Accordingly, over 70% of cat owners purchase specialized or prescription cat food, reflecting a growing emphasis on tailored nutrition.

Cat food manufacturers increasingly focus on novel protein sources, to meet evolving consumer preferences and sustainability goals. There is also a notable demand for natural, vegan and organic products, with sales expected to grow by 9% each year encouraging manufacturers to launch new products. For instance, in August 2024, Wild Earth launched Unicorn Pate, its first nutritionally complete vegan cat food, exceeding AAFCO standards, along with essential nutrients.

North America dominates the global cat food market, accounting for over 40% of total revenue, according to the Worldmetrics organization. In US alone, premium cat food represents 45% of all cat food sales, showcasing a significant shift towards high-quality, health-focused products. This strong demand highlights consumer trends and positions North America as a key player in setting industry standards and driving innovation in pet nutrition.

Market Dynamics

Rising Pet Ownership

The rising number of pet owners around the globe is significantly boosting the demand for pet food. Over half of the global population is estimated to have pets, with families in US, EU and China owning more than half a billion dogs and cats combined. As pet nutrition and health awareness grows, many consumers seek high-quality, natural and organic options to provide their pets the better food and nutrition.

Manufacturers are responding by creating diverse flavors and formulations, including high-protein varieties. For instance, in May 2024 Omni, a UK vegan pet food brand launched a new cat food featuring cultivated chicken meat. This innovative product enhances nutrition with essential vitamins and omega fatty acids and addresses consumer concerns about antibiotics and chemicals often found in traditional meats.

Pet Humanization And Premiumization of Pet Food

The humanization and premiumization of pets increase spending, particularly on food. As pet owners increasingly view their pets, including cats as family members, they prioritize high-quality, nutritious food that reflects their values of health and wellness. This shift is evident in the growing demand for premium products with superior ingredients and tailored nutrition. In 2022, Americans spent $136.8 billion on pets, a 10.68% increase from $123.6 billion in 2021.

A substantial portion of this US$ 58.1 billion was dedicated to pet food and treats, highlighting the trend toward investing in premium offerings that enhance pets' quality of life. Furthermore, from 2018 to 2022, pet spending surged by 51.16%, from US$ 90.5 billion to US$ 136.8 billion. This growth reflects a deeper commitment to pet care, as evidenced by the US$ 35.9 billion spent on vet care. The trends underscore how the humanization and premiumization of pet food are reshaping the cat food market.

Economic Factors

The global cat food market is increasingly influenced by economic factors that affect consumer spending and pet ownership. A significant portion of pet owners, 42% indicate that a vet bill of US$ 999 or less could push them into debt, while 28% face similar pressures with bills of US$ 499 or less. This financial strain made 3% of pet owners give away their pets between 2021 and 2022, citing reasons such as inflation, rising rent costs and medical expenses.

As economic downturns limit disposable income, pet owners are likely to shift from premium cat food brands to more affordable options. This presented little challenges for cat food manufacturers as there are more considerations of consumers spending on cat food. Fluctuations in the availability and cost of high-quality ingredients can impact production and pricing leading to economic tensions in the market.

Market Segment Analysis

The global cat food market is segmented based on product type, age of cat, ingredient, sales channel and region.

High Palatability Nature of Wet Cat Food

The global cat food market is segmented based on the type of dry cat food, wet cat food, veterinary diet and others. Wet cat food dominates due to its high palatability, moisture content and nutritional value. Cats tend to prefer its taste and texture, leading to better acceptance and increased consumption. The added moisture aids in hydration, which is crucial for feline health. Additionally, the convenience of ready-to-serve portions and various flavors further enhances its appeal to pet owners.

Robust consumer demand has prompted the launch of new products within the segment. For instance, in September 2024, Poland's Animal Island introduced four new flavors of its popular wet cat food pouches. Anna Derkacz, the product development manager, highlighted that these pouches have already sold hundreds of thousands of units, demonstrating their market success. This expansion showcases the growing popularity of wet food.

Market Geographical Share

High Pet Ownership in North America

North America dominates the global cat food market due to high pet ownership rates, significant consumer investment in premium products and a strong focus on quality and safety. As of 2024, approximately 66% of US households, equating to around 86.9 million homes, own a pet, marking a substantial increase from 56% in 1988. Within this context, cat ownership has seen notable growth, rising from 25% in 2016 to 29% in 2022.

The upward trend indicates a robust and expanding market segment, highlighting North America's leadership in the pet industry. The increasing trend of cat ownership reflects not just a rise in numbers but also a deeper emotional connection between families and their pets. Over half of pet owners (51%) consider their cats integral family members, driving a willingness to invest in high-quality nutrition and specialized diets.

The strong bond highlights significant spending on premium pet products, positioning North America as a pivotal player in the cat food market. As consumers prioritize quality and innovation in their pets' diets, the demand for diverse cat food options continues to grow. This fuels market expansion and reinforces North America's dominant role in the global cat food industry.

Market Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include Mars Petcare, Nestle Purina PetCare Company, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc., Blue Buffalo Company, Ltd, Canidae, LLC, Affinity Petcare, S.A.U., Evanger's Dog & Cat Food Company, Inc., The J.M. Smucker Company, ADM and General Mills Inc.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact

The Russia-Ukraine war has caused major disruptions in the global pet food market including cat food. Ingredient shortages due to inadequate supply chain management, have led to rising prices, with manufacturers often passing these costs onto consumers. Shipping issues have further complicated the sourcing and distribution of raw materials and even products, adding to market instability.

As a result, many pet owners are opting for more affordable cat food options, changing their buying habits. At the same time, brands are focusing more on sustainability, looking to source ingredients locally to avoid reliance on global supply chains. These shifts are likely to have lasting effects on the market.

By Product Type

Dry Cat Food

Wet Cat Food

Veterinary Diet

Others

By Age of Cat

Kitten

Adult Cat

Senior Cat

By Ingredient

Animal Derived

Plant Derived

Cereal and Cereal By-Products

Others

By Sales Channel

Specialized Pet Shops

Hypermarkets/Supermarkets

Online Sales

Others

By Region

North America

US

Canada

Mexico

Europe

Germany

UK

France

Italy

Rest of Europe

South America

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of South America

Asia-Pacific

China

India

Japan

Australia

Rest of Asia-Pacific

Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

In May 2022, MARS Petcare launched a premium line of cat food in India under the IAMS brand. This range features four dry food variants specifically designed to support a healthy, natural defense for adult cats (1 year and older) and kittens (2 to 12 months).

In September 2024, Animal Island, a Polish producer expanded its bestselling line of wet cat food pouches by introducing four new flavors.

In September 2024, Growel Group, a leader in aquaculture since 1994 launched Carniwel, a new pet food brand. Featuring fresh meat and superfoods, Carniwel offers premium cat food for both kittens and adults, focusing on digestive health, coat quality and overall well-being.

Why Purchase the Report?

To visualize the global cat food market segmentation based on product type, age of the cat, ingredient, sales channel and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.

Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.

Excel spreadsheet containing a comprehensive dataset of the cat food market, covering all levels of segmentation.

PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.

Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global cat food market report would provide approximately 70 tables, 65 figures and 208 pages.

Target Audience 2024

Manufacturers/ Buyers

Industry Investors/Investment Bankers

Research Professionals

Emerging Companies