United States Pet Food Market Forecast and Research Report

US Pet Food Market Size:

The US pet food market size reached US$ 43.9 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 59.9 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% during 2024-2032. The rapid shift in demographic patterns, particularly the rise of millennials, the growing willingness to spend more on high-quality pet products, and the increasing demand for premium, dry, and wet pet foods and treats are among the key factors driving the pet food industry in the US.

US Pet Food Market Analysis:

• Market Revenue: The US pet food market generates substantial revenue, reflecting the high demand for pet nutrition and care products. In recent years, the market has seen significant growth, reaching billions of dollars annually.
• Scope & Dominance: The US pet food market is one of the largest globally, dominated by key players that hold significant market shares. The pet food industry in US includes a wide range of products such as dry food, wet food, treats, and specialized diets for various pets, including dogs, cats, and other small animals.
• US pet food industry Growth Factor: Several factors drive the growth of the US pet food industry, including increasing pet ownership, the humanization of pets, rising disposable incomes, and a growing awareness of pet health and nutrition. Additionally, the trend toward premium and organic pet food products contributes to market expansion.
• Top Leaders & Largest Manufacturer: The US pet food market is led by major companies such as Nestlé Purina PetCare, Mars Petcare Inc., Big Heart Pet Brands, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Diamond Pet Foods, Blue Buffalo, etc.
• US pet food Market Production and Sales Statistics: The production and sales of pet food in the US have shown a steady increase, as per US pet food market forecast. High demand for diverse pet food products, including premium and specialized diets, drives production levels. Sales statistics reflect consumer preferences, with dry food and treats being the most popular categories.
• Opportunities & Challenges: Opportunities in the US pet food market include the growing trend towards natural and organic products, the rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales channels and increasing innovation in pet food formulations. Challenges include stringent regulatory requirements, rising raw material costs, and intense competition among market players.
• Market Dynamics: The dynamics of the US pet food industry trends are shaped by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements in pet food production, and the influence of marketing and promotional strategies. The market is also impacted by economic factors, such as changes in consumer spending patterns and the overall economic environment.

Market Overview: 

Pet food is a specially crafted formulation prepared to cater to the nutritional needs of domesticated animals, including dogs, cats, birds, fish, and others. It contains a balanced blend of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for the growth, maintenance, and overall well-being of pets. The nutritional profile of pet food varies widely, determined by the type of animal it is intended for, its age, breed, size, and health condition. It is available in multiple forms, including dry kibble, canned wet food, raw food diets, and treats. Some pet food is also formulated to address specific dietary needs, including food allergies, obesity, or diseases like kidney or heart issues.

Shifting demographic patterns, particularly due to the rise of millennials majorly drives the market in the US. These generations are known for their strong ethical stance, focus on health and wellness, and willingness to spend more on high-quality products for their pets, thus affecting the growth of the market. Also, the fast-paced lifestyles of the masses are also driving the pet food market as more individuals move to urban areas and face time constraints, there has been a growing preference for convenient, ready-to-eat, and easy-to-serve pet food options. This trend has enhanced the demand for premium, dry, and wet pet foods and treats, thereby propelling the market. In addition, regulatory bodies are implementing stringent regulations to ensure the quality and safety of pet food. These guidelines enhance consumer confidence and stimulate market growth by ensuring that products are nutritious, safe, and accurately labeled, which is contributing to the market. Furthermore, the integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), to analyze pet nutritional needs and offer personalized diet plans is creating a positive market outlook.

US Pet Food Market Trends:

Humanization of Pets and Premiumization Trend

One significant driver for the pet food market in US is the increasing trend of pet owners treating their pets as family members, also known as the humanization of pets. This trend has led to strong demand for high-quality, premium pet foods, as owners are increasingly conscious of providing nutritious meals to their pets that mirror their own dietary habits. For instance, diets focusing on natural, organic, and non-GMO ingredients have a positive impact on sales. Additionally, pet foods catering to specific dietary requirements, such as grain-free, gluten-free, or high-protein diets have also grown in popularity. The premiumization trend extends to packaging as well, with consumers preferring environmentally friendly options or personalized packaging that enhances the overall pet care experience.

Emerging E-Commerce Sector

The rapid increase in online shopping, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has become a significant driver in the U.S. pet food market. Consumers' growing comfort and convenience with online purchasing have expanded opportunities for pet food sales through digital platforms. It enables pet owners to easily compare prices, read reviews, research product ingredients, and have their preferred pet food delivered right to their doorsteps, often with auto-renewal options to ensure a continuous supply. This digital revolution has also enabled the growth of direct-to-consumer pet food brands, providing consumers with a wider range of products to choose from. These factors combined have led to an increase in online pet food sales, propelling the growth of the overall market.

US Pet Food Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the country level for 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on pet type, product type, pricing type, ingredient type, and distribution channel.

Breakup by Pet Type:

• Dog Food
• Cat Food
• Others
   

Dog food dominates the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the pet type. This includes dog food, cat food, and others. According to the report, dog food represented the largest segment.

According to the US pet food market research report, dog pet type dominated the market. This is related to the increasing acceptance of dogs as home pets, as well as increased household expenditure on healthy dog food. Dogs are a carnivorous species; hence their diet is primarily meat-based. Dogs have a relatively low carbohydrate intake, which has led to increased demand for goods with more meat and less carbs. Furthermore, dry food remains one of the most popular choices among dog owners due to its associated health benefits, such as promoting a healthy oral system.

Breakup by Product Type:

• Dry Pet Food
• Wet and Canned Pet Food
• Snacks and Treats
   

Dry pet food holds the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product type have also been provided in the report. This includes dry pet food, wet and canned pet food, and snacks and treats. According to the report, dry pet food accounted for the largest market share.

Dry pet food dominated the US market due to the greater proportion of dogs in the total pet population. The dry form is the most popular alternative among pet owners, particularly dog owners. Dry pet food is in high demand since it is more convenient and has a longer shelf life than wet food. Additionally, dry dog food is more affordable compared to wet food, making it a preferred option for many pet owners. Another advantage of these items is that they have a longer shelf life and do not require refrigeration or specialized storage facilities.

Breakup by Pricing Type:

• Mass Products
• Premium Products
   

Mass products hold the maximum share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the pricing type have also been provided in the report. This includes mass products and premium products. According to the report, mass products accounted for the largest market share.

In the US pet food sector, the market drivers for mass product pricing are primarily concerned with affordability and accessibility. Because of economies of scale and larger distribution networks, mass-market pet food brands frequently provide reasonable prices, making them appealing to budget-conscious buyers. Furthermore, the convenience and availability of mass items in supermarkets, discount stores, and online platforms make them more accessible to a wider range of customers. Besides, marketing strategies targeting a wide audience and offering frequent promotions or discounts contribute to maintaining strong consumer demand and market presence for these products.

Breakup by Ingredient Type:

• Animal Derived
• Plant Derived
   

Animal derived hold the maximum share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the ingredient type have also been provided in the report. This includes animal derived, and plant derived. According to the report, animal derived accounted for the largest market share.

The animal derived segment dominates the market. Traditionally, animal sources have been widely employed to produce pet feeds. Fish meal, poultry meal, and animal meal are commonly used to make cat and dog diets around the world. Animal-sourced feed is also popular because of its high nutritional profile and ease of access to animal sources. Animal-derived ingredients are often seen as a reliable source of essential amino acids and nutrients that are crucial for the overall health and well-being of pets.

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Specialty Stores
• Online
• Others
   

Supermarkets and hypermarkets hold the maximum share in the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel. This includes supermarkets and hypermarkets, specialty stores, online, and others. According to the report, supermarkets and hypermarkets represented the largest segment.

The supermarket/hypermarket segment dominates the US pet food market. Supermarkets/hypermarkets have a larger proportion due to consumer preference for increased convenience in terms of brand and price choices. The product arrangement in supermarkets and hypermarkets adds to convenience. Furthermore, these channels provide a wide range of options, including unusual, custom-designed, and premium food products for pets, which are projected to drive the segment's expansion. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are widely available, located in various neighborhoods, making it convenient for pet owners to purchase pet food alongside their regular grocery shopping.

Competitive Landscape:

The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• Nestlé Purina PetCare
• Mars Petcare Inc.
• Big Heart Pet Brands
• Hill's Pet Nutrition
• Diamond Pet Foods
• Blue Buffalo
   

(Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)

The competitive landscape in this market is moderately consolidated with US pet food market share by brand increasing at a significant rate. In addition, firms are expanding, merging, and acquiring as part of their strategic plans. For instance, on January 11, 2023, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, a global leader in science-led pet nutrition, announced that it will expand its footprint in Kansas with the relocation of its global and U.S. headquarters to Aspiria Campus to create a new hub in the Greater Kansas City area. Industry participants are more likely to invest extensively in research and technology to develop processes and produce new recipes made with diverse and unique ingredients. Key manufacturers are also working on developing new recipes to provide a diverse and high-quality diet for pets and farm animals. Industry players also use raw materials with criteria to suit expectations.

US Pet Food Market News:

• January 11, 2024: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, a division of Colgate-Palmolive and a global leader in science-led nutrition, announced a series of new product innovations and enhancements to its #1 US Vet Recommended therapeutic pet food line, Hill’s Prescription Diet.
• June 10, 2024: Nestlé Purina PetCare donated $10,000 grant to Greater Good Charities to support the organization’s relief efforts. Purina’s donation will help fund emergency shelter and medications for the thousands of lost or displaced pets impacted by the storms.
• May 21, 2024: Mars Incorporated, a global leader in pet care products and services, confectionery, snacking, and food and the maker of some of the world’s most-loved brands, announced a partnership with Tripadvisor*, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, kicking off in the U.S. market with plans for future global expansion. Through a new co-branded digital hub, consumers will be inspired by and connected to pet-friendly communities across Tripadvisor’s platform, while businesses will be encouraged to realize the cultural, well-being, and financial benefits of becoming pet-friendly.

US Pet Food Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the US pet food market from 2018-2032.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the US pet food market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the US pet food industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.