CAT FOOD MARKET

Cat Food Market size reached USD 32.5 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach USD 46.6 billion in 2031, and the market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2024-2031 driven by the rise in cat ownership and a growing focus on pet nutrition.

Major Drivers and Trends

The cat food market size growth is largely driven by the growing number of cat owners which fuels the demand for various products from basic nutrition to indulgent treats and entertainment items. The rise in pet ownership particularly among millennials, older adults and individuals living alone is fueling market demand with cats becoming increasingly popular as companion animals. The shift toward viewing pets as family members especially in treating them like children has been a major driver behind the market growth.

The cat food market growth is also being fueled by growing demand in emerging markets as higher economic growth has led to a rise in income which makes pet ownership affordable to more people. There is also a growing trend where pet owners choose premium cat food that reflects the same quality or ingredients they would expect in their own meals. With a focus on convenience many consumers are opting for personalized cat food subscriptions that provide customized meal plans. The trend towards wet cat food is also growing driven by a shift toward more delicious options as pet owners look for meals that cater to their specific needs rather than just providing the basics.

Pet food companies have responded to this trend by creating various foods that resemble human meals with packaging and marketing that emphasize high-quality ingredients like pink salmon and vegetables to resonate with pet owners. The shift toward premium food for cats is driven by the desire to reduce health risks. The rising interest in pet health therefore presents lucrative opportunities for cat food companies to produce nutritionally focused products which help them expand their share in the market.

Furthermore the rise of online shopping has significantly eased the process for pet owners to find and purchase cat food that meets their specific requirements. Online shopping has become the preferred choice for more pet parents such as cat owners who seek specialized food due to the extensive product range with a convenient purchase process.

Type Insights: Dry food segment registered the largest market size

Dry food dominates the market due to its convenience as it allows cats to eat whenever they like which makes it perfect for pet owners with busy schedules who cannot feed their cats regularly. Dry food is also more affordable than wet option therefore it offers a less expensive alternative for pet owners looking to save on animal care expenses.

The wet food category also holds a substantial market share driven by its hydration benefits and the essential nutrients it offers for pet health. As carnivores by nature cats rely heavily on the moisture content within food to meet their hydration needs. Providing a wet food diet ensures that cats stay properly hydrated which supports their health and reduces the risk of UTIs due to the proper moisture levels. Wet food also offers various formulations and flavors which can be especially beneficial for picky eaters. It further helps them consume a balanced diet and maintain their overall health. However, wet food is often pricier than dry options and requires proper storage which can be less convenient for pet owners.

The snack or treat segment is experiencing growth as owners increasingly use it to reward their cats and show love. It is also beneficial to reinforce positive behavior during training. Offering treats can further be a way to mentally engage cats as it provides entertainment and a chance to deepen the bond between them and their pet parents.

Distribution Channel Insights: Supermarkets and hypermarkets segment dominated the largest share

Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate the cat food market share as they provide an extensive range of unique or specialized products. It provides a major convenience for pet owners as it offers quick and easy access to various cat foods in conveniently located stores. Retailers such as supermarkets and hypermarkets carry an extensive brand which offer pet owners a convenient shopping experience. These retailers are the preferred choice for many consumers due to their easy accessibility and attractive pricing. They also offer the ability to personally check products which further makes them the largest market segment.

The online channel is also seeing rapid growth as it offers cat owners an easy and affordable way to purchase premium food without leaving home. These stores generally stock various cat food types from premium brands to more affordable options and often run sales or promotions. As cat owners increasingly turn to online shopping for pet food, the demand for these stores is projected to keep rising. Online stores have seen substantial growth fueled by factors like easy purchasing options and home delivery. Online market players are increasingly focusing on broadening their delivery services and collaborating with leading ecommerce platforms to tap into a larger customer base.

The specialty stores segment includes independently owned pet shops and larger retail chains which focus exclusively on pet products. These retailers prioritize an exceptional customer experience by offering various premium pet products including quality food.

Regional Insights: Asia Pacific is estimated to exhibit the highest CAGR

Asia Pacific is projected to lead the market driven by a surge in pet ownership and growing disposable incomes. The market growth is also supported by the growing demand for private-label brands combined with rising urbanization. There has been a notable rise in the cat population in the region driven by the increasing number of people choosing cats as companions and for added security. Additionally, cats are increasingly seen as a symbol of social prestige in urban areas. The growing adoption of cats in places like China and Japan can be attributed to space limitations along with the busy routines of modern pet owners.

The North American market is also showing strong potential driven by rising pet ownership. It is fueled by factors such as evolving views on pets as family members along with advancements in pet nutrition and care.

Top Market Players

Various notable players in the market include ADM, Mars Incorporated, Nestle Purina, Colgate-Palmolive Company, among others. Many prominent market players are dedicating more resources to R&D as they aim to provide cats with a wider selection of flavors and enhanced nutritional profiles. In addition, the use of modern technology in production is facilitating the development of more diverse cat food options with better nutritional formulations and longer shelf stability which contributes to market growth.

Key Developments

• • In 2024, UK consumers are able to purchase canned cat food featuring cultivated chicken owing to a collaboration between pet food specialists Omni and Meatly which is a renowned meat brand. After focusing on plant-based pet food Omni is now branching into agriculture which marks its first step into this new sector.
  • In 2023, Nestle Purina has introduced new round cat treats under the Friskies Playfuls brand which offers snacks in liver and chicken along with shrimp and salmon flavors designed for adult cats.
  • In 2023, Mars Incorporated has introduced its premium cat food brand in Canada SHEBA which features wet food options through the SHEBA BISTRO collection.
  • In 2021, Beaphar has expanded its portfolio by acquiring Pet Food UK from Piper. It secures popular ultra-premium brands such as Barking Heads and Meowing Heads. This acquisition has strengthened the company’s existing product range and distribution channels.

Segments covered in the Report:

The Global Cat Food Market has been segmented on the basis of Type, Distribution Channel, and Regions. Based on the Type, the market is segmented into Wet Food, Dry Food, and Snacks/Treats. Based on the Distribution Channel, the market is segmented into Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores, Online, and Others.

Market Segmentation

Global Cat Food Market by Type

• • Wet Food
  • Dry Food
  • Snacks/Treats

Global Cat Food Market by Distribution Channel

• • Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
  • Specialty Stores
  • Online
  • Others

Global Cat Food Market by Region

• North America Cat Food Market (Option 1: As a part of the free 25% customization)

  • By Type
  • By Distribution Channel
  • US Market All-Up
  • Canada Market All-Up

• Europe Cat Food Market (Option 2: As a part of the free 25% customization)

  • By Type
  • By Distribution Channel
  • UK Market All-Up
  • Germany Market All-Up
  • France Market All-Up
  • Spain Market All-Up
  • Rest of Europe Market All-Up

• Asia-Pacific Cat Food Market (Option 3: As a part of the free 25% customization)

  • By Type
  • By Distribution Channel
  • China Market All-Up
  • India Market All-Up
  • Japan Market All-Up
  • Rest of APAC Market All-Up

• RoW Cat Food Market (Option 4: As a part of the free 25% customization)

  • By Type
  • By Distribution Channel
  • Brazil Market All-Up
  • South Africa Market All-Up
  • Saudi Arabia Market All-Up
  • UAE Market All-Up
  • Rest of world (remaining countries of the LAMEA region) Market All-Up

Major Players Operating in the Cat Food (Option 5: As a part of the Free 25% Customization – Profiles of 5 Additional Companies of your Choice)

• • ADM
  • Mars Incorporated
  • Nestlé Purina
  • Colgate-Palmolive Company