10 Incredible Pet Food Industry Statistics & Facts (Updated in 2024)
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Have you ever wondered how the pet food industry operates? It’s a fascinating and diverse industry, with a variety of products and services that cater to the needs of pet owners. In recent years, the pet food industry has grown exponentially, with sales reaching an all-time high in 2019. Let’s look inside the pet food industry, featuring some of the most interesting facts and stats that you may not know about this continuously growing industry.
The 10 Pet Food Industry Statistics
- A survey in 2020 revealed that over 80 million households in the United States had one or more pets.
- According to statistics, about 2.78 million jobs across the country are related to the pet sector.
- North America leads the market in pet food and supply sales.
- During the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, pet food supply chain disruptions were big and caused several issues in the market.
- In 2021, the pet products in highest demand were CBD for dogs, PrettyLitter subscription service, and Donut Dog Beds.
- In 2021 pet food and treats made up the biggest share of the pet industry product marketplace.
- Many pet food providers have switched gears to offer healthier options, something that has significantly affected the global market.
- In 2021, $123 billion was spent on our pets in the U.S.
- In 2021, over $29 billion was spent on pet supplies, medicine, and live animal sales in the US.
- Industry experts and analysts expect the global pet food market to grow from 115 billion to 163 billion by the year 2029.
General Pet Industry Statistics
1. A survey in 2020 revealed that over 80 million households in the United States had one or more pets.
(Mordor Intelligence)
A survey by the APPA National Pet Owners Survey in 2020 revealed that over 80 million households in the United States had one or more pets, with the majority of the owners having dogs. Cats, birds, and other pet animals followed suit in the study. This may mean that the trend of pet ownership is on the rise in the US and that people are increasingly investing in pets (and subsequently pet care) to make their homes livelier.
(Pet Food Industry)
About 2.78 million jobs across the country are related to the pet sector with about 1 million people working directly in pet related enterprises and businesses. This highlights the immense potential of the pet sector in terms of job creation. That being stated, the pet sector is also a major source of revenue for the country and has been growing steadily over the years. This growth has led to increased job openings in the sector, allowing more people to benefit from the opportunities provided by the pet industry as a whole.
3. North America leads the market in pet food and supply sales.
(Allied Market Research)
North America leads the market in pet food and supply sales, with the highest Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) expected to be over 5% during the next 10 years. This data indicates that the demand for pet food and supplies will continue to increase as pet ownership becomes more popular. The growth of online retailing has also contributed to the growth of the pet food and supply market. Online retailers offer convenience and competitive prices, allowing consumers to purchase pet food and supplies from the comfort of their homes.
Product Demand Statistics
4. During the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, pet food supply chain disruptions were big and caused several issues in the market.
(Fortune Business Insights)
As a result, many pet owners stocked up on pet food, causing a short-term boost in food sales. According to the American Pet Products Associations (APPA), sales for pet food and treats in the US increased by 9.7% in 2020.
5. In 2021, the pet products in highest demand were CBD for dogs, PrettyLitter subscription service, and Donut Dog Beds.
(Globe News Wire)
According to a 2021 industry report by the market research company, Spherical Insights, the pet products in highest demand were CBD for dogs, PrettyLitter subscription service, and Donut Dog Beds. Clearly, pet owners are looking for products that not only provide comfort to their furry friends but also ones that promote their wellbeing.
(Statista)
In 2021 pet food and treats made up the biggest share of the pet industry product marketplace, surpassing other purchases such as supplies, pet services (like grooming), and pet purchases overall. The shift towards pet food and treats suggests a higher priority being placed on pet nutrition and health, as well as a greater focus on convenience. For example, more pet owners are opting for pre-prepared meals and treats rather than cooking their own. It’s also likely that people are spending more on premium pet foods, which offer higher quality ingredients and more health benefits.
7. Many pet food providers have switched gears to offer healthier options, something that has significantly affected the global market.
(Grandview Research)
As a result of increased customer awareness regarding organic and natural foods, many pet food providers have switched gears to offer healthier options. This shift in focus has also helped increase the overall quality of pet food, as providers are now more likely to use higher quality ingredients and place greater emphasis on providing nutritional value – something that has also affected food prices.
Industry Value and Trends Statistics
8. In 2021, $123 billion was spent on our pets in the U.S.
(Fortune Business Insights)
Also In 2021, over $34 billion was spent on veterinary care and product sales in the US. This is an increase of nearly 10% from the previous year and is an indication of the importance of pets in the lives of Americans. It also seems to be a bit of a testament to the evolving relationship between people and pets and is indicative of the need for more health support within the pet industry in the future.
9. In 2021, over $29 billion was spent on pet supplies, medicine, and live animal sales in the US.
(American Pet Products)
The pet industry has grown significantly in the past few years. So, it seems that the market is booming, with pet owners increasingly willing to spend more money on their pets. It also indicates that pet owners are becoming more aware of the needs of their pets and are willing to invest in their health and well-being.
10. Industry experts and analysts expect the global pet food market to grow from 115 billion to 163 billion by the year 2029.
(American Pet Products)
This represents a substantial increase of 44%. This growth seems to be driven by the increasing demand for pets and pet food from consumers, and quite possibly, the rising disposable incomes of consumers in various markets.
FAQs About the Pet Food Industry
What’s the most common type of pet food? What are other options?
The most common type of pet food is dry food, which is usually made from grains, vegetables, and meat. Wet food, which is usually canned or packaged in pouches, is also popular. It’s usually made from cooked meats and vegetables. And you also have specialty pet food, which is designed for specific types of pets or for pets with special dietary needs.
Another type of pet food is raw food, which is becoming increasingly popular among pet owners. Raw food is typically made from fresh, natural ingredients, such as meats, fruits, and vegetables. Many vets advise that it may be more nutritious than other types of pet food, as it’s not processed and contains fewer additives. While raw food is growing in popularity, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for all pets.
Finally, there is freeze-dried pet food, which is becoming more popular as an alternative to raw food. Freeze-dried pet food is made from natural ingredients that are quickly frozen and then dried, which helps to preserve the nutrients. Freeze-dried pet food is usually more expensive than other types, but it’s also more convenient and can be stored for longer periods of time.
Is pet food cheaper online?
Not necessarily, though you may be able to find good sales on sites such as Amazon, Petco, and Walmart. And when it comes to pet owners’ spending habits, there are a few key trends to note. According to recent surveys (those mentioned previously), pet owners are increasingly willing to invest in premium pet food products, which are now available online.
This means that many owners are willing to forgo making weekly or monthly trips to the pet store to get food when they can conveniently order it online. So, is it cheaper online? Not necessarily. However, it is definitely more convenient for many pet owners – which seems to make a big difference.
What is plant-based pet food made of? Is it better?
Plant-based pet food products are usually made from a variety of plant-based ingredients, such as peas, lentils, and quinoa, and are often fortified with vitamins and minerals. These food products are becoming increasingly popular, as pet owners are looking for natural ingredients and alternatives to traditional meat-based pet foods.
It’s not necessarily better than traditional kibble or meat-based products, but it can definitely offer your pet more nutrition from natural sources. However, that being stated, it’s important to remember that dogs and cats need a substantial amount of protein a day to stay healthy. On average, dogs need 1 gram of protein a day per pound of body weight, while cats need 2 grams.
Does the FDA regulate pet food products?
Yes, the pet food industry in the US is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as well as the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). The FDA is responsible for actually setting standards for pet food safety, labeling, and ingredients, while the AAFCO is more responsible for setting nutritional standards for pet food products specifically.
This means that all manufacturers must ensure that their products meet the safety standards set by the FDA and the AAFCO in order to sell their products in the US.
How do pet food manufacturers advertise their products in present day markets?
Pretty much the same way most food companies do. The pet food industry is very competitive these days, and they use various advertising and promotions to differentiate their products and attract new customers. This may include TV commercials, print ads, and social media campaigns. Additionally, pet food manufacturers often partner with pet stores and veterinarians to promote their food and treats.
Who are the top pet food providers today?
Nowadays, there are a wide range of pet food providers available on the market. But some of the top providers include Purina, Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, Iams, and Blue Buffalo. All of these companies offer a wide selection of products that are formulated to provide balanced nutrition for cats, dogs, and other types of animals.
These food providers also offer helpful information on choosing the right food and feeding schedules for your pet – something that can be especially helpful for new and experienced pet owners.
Is dog or cat food more expensive?
When it comes to the cost of pet food, there really isn’t a definitive answer as to which type of pet food is more expensive. Dog food and cat food can both vary greatly in price depending on the type, brand, and quality. Generally speaking, though, dog food tends to be slightly more expensive than cat food.
This is due to the fact that dogs require different nutrients in their diet than cats and usually require larger servings. Also, certain breeds of dog may require specific diets, which can be more expensive than the standard cat food.
Is it OK to feed a cat dog food to save money?
No, it’s not a good idea to feed your cat dog food. Dogs and cats have different nutritional needs. Dog food does not provide the essential nutrients a cat needs. This diet won’t maintain a cat’s health and can be harmful. Dogs and cats have different digestive systems and dogs are able to digest certain ingredients that cats cannot. The nutritional components in dog and cat food are pretty different and feeding dog food to your car may cause your cat to have digestive and other health issues.
What are the cheapest pet food brands?
When it comes to finding the cheapest pet food brands, there are a few options worth considering. One of the most popular and affordable choices is Iams. Iams offers a wide variety of options for both cats and dogs, and their products are made with natural ingredients that are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Another great budget-friendly option is Nutro (though it’s not as popular). Nutro offers several grain-free and organic formulas that are packed with high-quality protein sources. The brand also focuses on using natural ingredients that are free of corn, wheat, soy, and by-products.
Lastly, Purina is another great option for pet owners looking to save money. The brand has been around for decades, and it has a large selection of formulas at various price points. All of its products are designed to meet the nutritional needs of both cats and dogs of all ages and sizes.
Conclusion
The pet food industry is an incredibly diverse and fascinating industry, with a variety of products and services catering to the needs of pet owners. This growing demand and increased spending shows no signs of slowing down, and the pet industry looks set to remain a thriving sector for years to come.
Featured Image Credit: Africa Studio, Shutterstock
