North America Pet Food Market Trends
The size of North America's pet food market was valued at USD 51.02 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to advance at a CAGR of 4.5% during the period from 2025 to 2030. The North American region, specifically the United States and Canada, has been seeing vibrant expansion based on changing lifestyles among consumers, the growing humanization of pets, and the greater emphasis on pet wellness and health.
In the United States, in 2023, about 66% of the households had a pet, as reported by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), which equates to more than 86 million households. This increased pet ownership has resulted in increased demand for premium and traditional pet food products. The American pet food market alone was worth more than USD 44 billion in 2023 and continues to rise gradually with growing spending on high-value and niche pet foods.
The biggest reason behind this growth is the trend toward the humanization of pets, with owners caring for pets like part of their family. This emotional connection is fueling demand for grain-free, natural, organic, raw, and functional pet food that mirrors human food trends. Consumers in the U.S. are especially attracted to products that support digestive health, joint care, and weight management, mirroring a similarity between human and pet diet. This has resulted in huge investments in research and development from pet food companies to meet the niche demands, such as probiotic-infused formulas, vegan options, and allergen-specific diets.
Pet owners are also better educated regarding individual dietary requirements and health conditions, and this has resulted in increased demand for specialized canned pet food offerings. Most wet pet food brands have also begun introducing customized formulas created specifically to treat pet health conditions, including weight management, digestive health, and joint support. This trend parallels the larger trend toward functional foods, in which the emphasis is not simply on general nutrition but on delivering something extra for overall health. By filling this need, wet pet food companies are riding the wave of demand for pet health and wellness. Besides, the growth in chronic conditions in pets like obesity and diabetes is affecting the wet pet food market.
The lower calorie and higher water content of wet pet food makes it more recommended by veterinarians to treat these conditions. Pet owners are therefore shifting towards wet food to prevent or treat conditions in their pets. This has created a rush for wet pet food products that provide balanced nutrition and promote general health. Furthermore, the growing care for pet health is also stimulating innovation in the wet pet food market.
Producers are emphasizing cleaner labels, employing natural and organic ingredients, and staying away from artificial additives and preservatives. This is consistent with the demands of health-conscious pet owners seeking to give their pets the finest available nutrition. Therefore, the market is witnessing the entry of wet pet food items that highlight high-quality, natural ingredients, driving market growth further. Fruitables revealed in December 2024 a dynamic rebrand as well as a new Chicken & Cranberry Baked Biscuits dog treat.
This action demonstrates the brand's dedication to offering healthy, guilt-free snacks as the pet treat industry expands and pet owners increasingly look for healthier alternatives. The new snacks are less than 10 calories per biscuit, contain high-quality ingredients such as pumpkin and cranberries, and are artificial color, preservative, and flavor-free. They are baked in the USA and formulated to promote pet health and fight pet obesity.
Consumer Insights
In North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, pet parents are becoming more intentional and informed about the food they provide for their pets. This shift in consumer behavior is driven by a growing understanding of pet nutrition and a strong emotional bond between owners and their animals. Today’s pet parents treat their cats and dogs as family members, and this sentiment is reflected in their food choices. They prioritize nutritional quality, health benefits, and ingredient transparency. A large number of pet owners now scrutinize ingredient lists, actively avoiding artificial additives, fillers, and meat by-products. Instead, they look for high-protein diets, often made with real meat, supplemented by vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and functional ingredients that promote digestion, joint health, or a healthy coat. The demand for grain-free, limited-ingredient, organic, and non-GMO formulas is also rising, particularly among millennials and Gen Z consumers who value clean-label, wellness-focused products.
Health and personalization are among the leading concerns for North American pet owners. Nearly half of all pet parents in the U.S. now seek specialized foods tailored to specific needs such as weight control, digestive health, or food sensitivities. Many opt for breed-specific, age-specific, or veterinarian-recommended formulas to ensure optimal nutrition. In Canada, over 60% of pet owners prefer food with natural or functional ingredients. There’s also growing interest in ethical and sustainable sourcing. Consumers increasingly support brands that use recyclable packaging, sustainable protein sources like insects or plant-based alternatives, and human-grade production standards. The role of veterinarians continues to be influential as nearly 58% of U.S. pet parents say that vet recommendations significantly shape their food choices.
According to GlobalPets, a survey revealed pet owners’ preferences for ingredients, from the health benefits they most desire to the types of food products they plan to buy.
Personalized pet food subscriptions are still a niche, with 8% currently using such services and another 8% having used them in the past. However, 35% express interest in trying them soon, especially among younger owners. In terms of planned purchases, pet supplements (62%), fish oils (51%), and food toppers (49%) are the most likely categories to be bought in the next six months. Freeze-dried and frozen pet foods are less likely to be purchased, with high levels of uncertainty among consumers.
Shopping behaviors are evolving, with 38% of pet owners still preferring brick-and-mortar stores, but a substantial 34% now shopping online. Many consumers use a hybrid approach, browsing online and buying in-store or vice versa. Subscription-based purchasing remains popular, with 28% of pet food shoppers and 18% of treat buyers using such services. Online research and social media play a growing role in how pet owners discover and evaluate new products
Innovations in pet food are evolving rapidly to meet these demands. One of the most significant trends is the rise of fresh, human-grade pet food. Brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and NomNom offer customized, lightly cooked meals that mimic the nutritional standards of human food. Pet food and treat manufacturers continuously try to differentiate themselves by adding extra ingredients to their products and by focusing on different health benefits in their marketing and packaging.
Report Coverage & Deliverables
- Competitive benchmarking
- Historical data & forecasts
- Company revenue shares
- Regional opportunities
- Latest trends & dynamics
Product Insights
The dry pet food segment dominated the market with a highest revenue share of 53.7% in 2024. The North American dry pet food market is expanding because of the convenience, extended shelf life, and ease of storage and feeding offered by it in comparison to wet or fresh options. Pet owners, especially in cities, prefer dry food for its convenience, low mess, and the capacity to accommodate special dietary requirements through formulations that are enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and functional ingredients. The growing trend towards pet humanization and enhanced demand for premium, grain-free, or breed-oriented dry food is also fueling sales, especially with more and more consumers looking for high-quality food for their pets. Top players like Pedigree, Royal Canin, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Diamond Pet Foods, and Drools in North America continue to hold sway in the market.
The pet treats/snacks market segment is projected to expand at the highest CAGR of 5.2% during the period between 2025 and 2030. Pet owners in North America are increasingly considering their pets as members of their family, thus fueling robust demand for high-quality, health-oriented treats with functional benefits like dental care, joint support, and enhanced digestion. Chewables such as biscuits, jerky, dental chews, and bones are the quickest-growing category, mirroring a growing trend for health-promoting treats. This is complemented by the trend towards natural, organic, grain-free, and limited-ingredient products, aimed at addressing the individual dietary requirements of pets
Pet Type Insights
The dogs segment dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 68.0% in 2024. The market for dog food in North America is witnessing robust growth driven by rising pet ownership, especially in urban regions, and escalating awareness among pet owners regarding the necessity of well-balanced nutrition for their canines. This trend has resulted in a boom in demand for high-end and specialty dog food products, such as grain-free, high-protein, and nutrient-rich formulations. On top of this, increased disposable incomes and the adoption of Western-style pet care habits have also spurred demand, as consumers look for products that resonate with international health and wellness trends.
The cats segment is likely to develop at the highest CAGR of 4.2% between 2025 and 2030.The market for cat food is witnessing significant growth due to a number of factors. Foremost, the increasing adoption of cats, particularly in metropolitan regions, is fueling demand. Cats tend to be favored by people residing in apartments or those with hectic lifestyles because they are low-maintenance pets. In Mexico, there has been an increase in cat adoptions in cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, a trend that follows.
Category Insights
The conventional pet food category dominated the market with a highest revenue share of 83.5% in 2024. Growth in the North America market is being driven by the growing humanization of pets, with pet owners considering their pets as members of their families and seeking premium, nutritionally balanced diets. Conventional pet meals, like canned food and dry kibble, are favored because they are inexpensive, convenient to use, and have a high shelf life, making them particularly suitable for people with busy lives. They can also be accessed through many sales channels, in supermarkets and via the internet, which has sustained their popularity. The consistent need for reliable and readily available pet food sustains the continued growth of the conventional pet food business.
The expert veterinary nutrition segment is anticipated to expand at the highest CAGR of 4.5% during the period 2025-2030. The market is witnessing considerable growth due to the growing humanization of pets and increased sensitivity towards their particular health requirements. Pet owners are looking for customized dietary solutions to treat conditions such as digestive sensitivities, obesity, and allergies. This need has generated an upsurge in premium, vet-formulated diets that use functional ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants. The ease of use of e-commerce platforms has also made it easier for owners to access these niche offerings, further fueling the growth of the market.
Distribution Channel Insights
The pet specialty stores segment led the market with the largest revenue share of 29.9% in 2024. These stores offer a curated selection of high-quality, niche, and premium pet food products that cater to specific dietary needs and health concerns, aligning with the growing trend of pet humanization and premiumization. Consumers are increasingly seeking transparency in ingredients and nutritional information, which specialty retailers are more likely to provide. In addition, these stores often employ knowledgeable staff who can offer personalized advice and recommendations, enhancing the shopping experience for pet owners.
The online/e-commerce channels segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.3% from 2025 to 2030. The market demand for pet food in North America is rising through online channels due to increasing digital adoption, convenience, and access to a wider variety of products. E-commerce platforms like Lazada, Shopee, and Amazon allow health-conscious consumers to explore numerous brands, compare ingredients, and read reviews before purchasing. The growth of health-focused DTC (direct-to-consumer) brands leveraging social media and influencer marketing has also expanded online visibility.
Country Insights
U.S. Pet Food Market Trends
The U.S. pet food market is anticipated to increase at a substantial CAGR of 4.3% between 2025 and 2030. Pet ownership in the U.S. has increased significantly over the last three decades. As per Forbes, as of 2024, 86.9 million households, or 66% of U.S. households, have a pet, including 65.1 million households with dogs, 46.5 million with cats, 11.1 million with freshwater fish, 6.7 million with small animals, and 6.1 million with fish birds. Strong disposable income in the nation has also fueled the market growth. For example, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA) 2022 report, USD 139.8 billion was being spent on pets, such as pet food & treats, supplies, vet care, etc.
Canada Pet Food Market Trends
The pet food market in Canada is forecast to advance at the highest CAGR of 5.2% between 2025 and 2030. Increasing knowledge about pet nutrition and well-being, based on veterinarian advice and online information, is leading to pet owners opting for high-quality, specialist, and condition-specific foods. Growth in modern retail and e-commerce channels has ensured that numerous types of pet food are easily available, enhancing the growth in the market. Also, trends like pet humanization, urbanization, and the transition from homemade to packaged pet food are promoting increased expenditure on high-quality pet nutrition among Mexican consumers.
Key North America Pet Food Company Insights
Pet food manufacturers in the North America region are increasingly adopting advanced food processing technologies to improve product quality, flavor, and nutritional content. Techniques such as vacuum frying, air frying, and freeze-drying are used to preserve the natural qualities and nutrients of ingredients while minimizing oil content. In addition, manufacturers are incorporating innovative packaging solutions, such as resealable and biodegradable options, to enhance convenience and sustainability. Customization is also gaining momentum, with brands offering diverse seasoning blends, organic choices, and personalized snack/treat packs to meet the varied preferences of pet owners.
Key North America Pet Food Companies
- The J.M. Smucker Company
- Nestlé Purina
- Mars, Incorporated
- LUPUS Alimento
- Total Alimentos
- Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- General Mills Inc.
- WellPet LLC
- The Hartz Mountain Corporation
- Diamond Pet Foods
Recent Developments
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In September 2023, Farm to Pet, a premium single-ingredient dog treat company, launched its entry into the cat treat segment through its new Crumbles Cat Treats line. The crunchy, bite-sized treats are made from all-natural, human-grade poultry breast available in both Chicken Crumbles and Turkey Crumbles flavors, sourced from reliable farmers and made without preservatives, additives, colors, fillers, or artificial ingredients. Formulated exclusively for cats' dietary requirements as obligate carnivores, Crumbles Cat Treats are contained in 3-ounce resealable packs and can be fed by hand, in a dish, or as a meal topper over wet or dry food.
In August 2024, Wild Earth, a prominent plant-based pet food brand, unveiled its very first vegan cat food, "Unicorn Pâté." Created with input from veterinarians and animal nutritionists, Unicorn Pâté is designed to provide a sustainable, ethical, and better-for-pets alternative to conventional cat food. The introduction demonstrates Wild Earth's commitment to minimizing the environmental footprint of pet food while providing pets with high-quality, science-driven nutrition.
In December 2023, Nestlé Purina partnered with Alpharetta-based LailaAliLifestyle.com to introduce EverRoot Dog Supplements Soft Chews. This soft chew can be personalized to address special pet needs and expands Purnia's offerings.
North America Pet Food Market Report Scope
|
Report Attribute |
Details |
|
Market size value in 2025 |
USD 53.24 billion |
|
Revenue forecast in 2030 |
USD 66.45 billion |
|
Growth rate |
CAGR of 4.5% from 2025 to 2030 |
|
Base year for estimation |
2024 |
|
Historical data |
2018 - 2023 |
|
Forecast period |
2025 - 2030 |
|
Quantitative units |
Revenue in USD million/billion, Volume in Kilo Tons, CAGR from 2025 to 2030 |
|
Report coverage |
Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
|
Segments covered |
Product, pet type, category, distribution channel, region |
|
Regional scope |
North America |
|
Country scope |
U.S.; Canada; Mexico |
|
The J.M. Smucker Company; Nestlé Purina; Mars; Incorporated; LUPUS Alimento; Total Alimentos; Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.; General Mills Inc.; WellPet LLC; The Hartz Mountain Corporation; Diamond Pet Foods. |
|
|
Customization scope |
Free report customization (equivalent up to 8 analysts working days) with purchase. Addition or alteration to country, regional & segment scope. |
|
Pricing and purchase options |
Avail customized purchase options to meet your exact research needs. Explore purchase options |
North America Pet Food Market Report Segmentation
Product Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
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Wet Pet Food
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Dry Pet Food
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Snacks/Treats
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Pet Type Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
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Cats
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Dogs
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Others
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Category Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
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Traditional Pet Food
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Specialist Veterinary Nutrition
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Cats
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Dogs
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Others
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Distribution Channel Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
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Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
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Convenience Stores
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E-commerce
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Pet Specialty Stores
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Others
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Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
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North America
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U.S.
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Canada
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Mexico
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