The pet market size in Europe was worth USD 5.75 billion in 2023. The European market is estimated to be worth USD 9.26 billion by 2029 from USD 6.23 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 8.24% from 2024 to 2029.
Pets are increasingly regarded as companions and support providers in Europe. The trend of pet-friendly workplaces, travel accommodations and recreational facilities is on the rise across Europe and reflects the integration of pets into various aspects of society. Several companies in Europe have been integrating technology into pet care and developing products such as smart connected pet collars and automated feeding systems, which are gaining popularity among pet owners. The humanization of pets is also increasing demand for luxury items such as designer clothing and gourmet treats.
The European pet market is anticipated to experience notable growth during the forecast period due to factors such as shifting consumer preferences and lifestyle trends. The rising awareness of pet health and well-being among the pet owners is also accelerating the demand for premium pet products. Notably, Millennials and Gen Z have been seeking personalized solutions for the needs of their pets.
The pet ownership is growing rapidly in Europe. For instance, approximately 58% of households own a pet across Europe, and 85 million households in Europe own at least one pet. Over 80% of European pet owners perceive their pets as family members, as found in a survey conducted by FEDIAF. The growing prevalence of pet ownership drives demand for a variety of pet-related products and services ranging from food, grooming supplies, toys and veterinary healthcare. Factors such as demographic shifts, lifestyle changes and socio-cultural factors have been contributing to the rising trend of pet ownership in Europe. For instance, the prevalence of single-person households and delayed parenthood incentivizes individuals to seek companionship through pet ownership.
The demand for high-quality pet products has been growing continuously due to the increasing number of pet owners recognizing the importance of providing optimal nutrition and care for their furry companions. For instance, the pet care market in Europe was worth USD 74.9 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.59% from 2024 to 2029. This growth is largely attributed to the premiumization trend, where consumers are willing to pay more for products that offer superior ingredients, nutritional value, and health benefits for their pets. Additionally, there has been a significant shift towards organic, natural, and eco-friendly pet products that reflect in growing concerns of consumers about sustainability and environmental impact. For instance, Mintel says in countries such as Germany and the UK, organic pet food sales have seen double-digit growth rates in recent years. This emphasis on health and wellness extends beyond food to include pet healthcare services, such as veterinary care, preventive treatments and wellness check-ups. The spending on pet healthcare services in Europe is also increasing significantly, which further indicates the increasing willingness of pet owners to invest in preventive and specialized care for their pets. As a result, the market participants in the European pet market have been focusing on innovation and product development to meet the evolving demands of health-conscious pet owners.
On the downside, factors such as stringent regulatory frameworks regarding pet ownership and breeding practices, limited availability of pet-friendly housing options in densely populated urban areas, and increasing concerns about allergies and hygiene associated with pets are hindering the pet market growth in Europe.
SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS
The dog segment dominated the European pet market and the domination of the dog segment is likely to continue throughout the forecast period. Factors such as the growing adoption rate of dogs, premiumization of pet products, increasing demand for dog care services such as grooming and training, increased disposable income, and growing awareness of dog health and wellness are propelling the expansion of dog segment in the Europe market. Germany leads in dog ownership in Europe and has more than 9 million registered dogs. France is the second-largest market for dog-related products in Europe.
The cat segment is estimated to register a notable surge during the forecast period. The rising adoption of cats is majorly supporting the growth of the cat segment in the European market. For instance, the United Kingdom has the highest cat ownership rate in Europe, with over 11 million pet cats. The product innovation in cat food and accessories and the rise of cat-centric social media are further driving the growth of the cat segment in the European pet market. Italy is a significant market for cat-related products and the demand for premium cat food brands is growing considerably in Italy.
The premium segment accounted for the largest share of the European pet care market in 2023. The premium segment is predicted to grow at a notable CAGR during the forecast period owing to factors such as increasing demand for high-quality pet food, accessories and healthcare products and rising willingness of the pet owners to spend more on the well-being of their pets.
The male segment is also anticipated to hold the domination throughout the forecast period. The rising preferences for specific breeds, companionship, and working roles, breed popularity, and cultural perceptions are driving the growth of the male segment in the European pet market.
On the other hand, the female segment is estimated to grow at a noteworthy CAGR during the forecast period in the Europe pet market owing to the increasing preferences for smaller breeds, companionship, and nurturing roles.
Europe held a substantial share of the global market in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a lucrative CAGR during the forecast period. Germany is one of the major regional segments in Europe for the pet market and is expected to grow at a promising CAGR during the forecast period. Germany has high pet ownership in Europe, with over 9 million registered pet dogs and 12 million pet cats. Factors such as the presence of an affluent population, pet humanization and rising emphasis on pet health and well-being in Germany are propelling the German market growth. The growing spending on pets by pet owners in Germany is contributing to the German market growth. For instance, German pet owners spend an average of €700 per year on pet-related expenses.
The UK market is predicted to hold a substantial share of the European market during the forecast period. The growth of the UK pet market is primarily driven by the humanization of pets, higher disposable income and emphasis on pet health and wellness.
The French market is estimated to register a healthy CAGR during the forecast period. France has a rich pet culture, with pets considered integral family members. France has over 30,000 pet stores catering to diverse pet needs. Strong cultural affinity for pets, urbanization and increased spending on pet care and accessories are some of the factors driving the pet market in France.
PetSmart and Petco are major players in the Europe pet market.
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