India Pet Snacks and Treats Market Outlook to 2028

India Pet Snacks and Treats Market Overview

The India pet snacks and treats market is valued at USD 400 million as of 2023, is projected to grow during the forecast period of 2023 to 2028. This growth is fueled by increasing pet ownership, the growing trend of pet humanization, and rising disposable incomes. Indian pet owners are increasingly investing in premium snacks and treats to promote the health and well-being of their pets.

Major urban centers such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad are witnessing a surge in demand for pet snacks and treats, driven by an increase in the number of nuclear families, pet adoptions, and the growing influence of Western pet care standards. The availability of a wide range of products, from biscuits and chew sticks to jerky and dental treats, is expanding consumer choices, further boosting market growth.

Government initiatives such as the reduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST) on pet food products and the growing emphasis on domestic pet food production have supported the market's development. The entry of global pet food brands into India and their partnerships with local manufacturers have also contributed to the rapid expansion of the pet snacks and treats market.

India Pet Snacks and Treats Market Segmentation

By Product Type: The India pet snacks and treats market is segmented by product type into chewy treats, crunchy snacks, jerky, dental treats, and functional snacks. Recently, chewy treats have a dominant market share under the product type segmentation. This dominance is due to their widespread popularity among dog owners for being soft, flavorful, and easy to digest. Chewy treats are often fortified with vitamins and minerals, making them a preferred choice for pet owners looking to provide their pets with both nutritional benefits and a rewarding snack.

By Pet Type: The market is segmented into dogs, cats, birds, and small animals. Dogs hold a dominant market share under the pet type segmentation, as they are the most popular pets in India. Dog owners are increasingly opting for premium snacks and treats to enhance their pets' overall well-being. The variety of dog treats available, including dental chews, bones, and jerky, makes them the preferred option. Moreover, dogs are perceived to have higher dietary requirements, which drives the consumption of snacks and treats tailored to them.

India Pet Snacks and Treats Market Competitive Landscape

The market is competitive, with both domestic and international players seeking to capture a growing share of Indias burgeoning pet care industry. Key players include Mars Petcare, Nestl Purina, and Himalaya Wellness, among others. These companies are leveraging new product launches, marketing campaigns, and a focus on nutritional benefits to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. Additionally, partnerships with e-commerce platforms and local pet retailers are aiding companies in expanding their reach.

Company Name

Establishment Year

Headquarters

Revenue (2023)

Employees

Key Products

Key Clients

Partnerships

Mars Petcare

1934

USA

Nestl Purina

1894

Switzerland

Himalaya Wellness

1930

India

Drools

2010

India

Pedigree

1957

USA

India Pet Snacks and Treats Industry Analysis Growth Drivers

Increasing Pet Ownership: Indias rapid urbanization, with over 465 million people living in urban areas by 2024, has significantly contributed to increasing pet ownership, especially in metropolitan regions like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Higher disposable incomes, now averaging INR 172,000 per capita annually, have allowed households to allocate more towards pet care. This shift in lifestyle, combined with a growing middle class, has led to a notable rise in pet ownership, with estimates suggesting that India is home to over 31 million pet dogs in 2024.

Pet Humanization Trend: The trend of pet humanization is growing, driven by higher disposable incomes and changing attitudes towards pets. With pet owners increasingly treating pets as family members, there is a marked rise in the demand for premium pet snacks and treats. In 2024, more than 20% of Indian households with pets are spending significantly on premium food products. The rise in spending has also been fueled by the increase in dual-income families, with average household incomes in urban areas now reaching INR 259,764 annually, enabling them to afford premium products.

Expansion of Online Channels: Indias burgeoning e-commerce market, is expanding into the pet industry. Online channels such as Amazon, Flipkart, and specialized pet platforms like Heads Up For Tails have become major distributors of pet snacks and treats. The convenience of e-commerce, combined with rising internet penetration, which stands at 53% of the population in 2024, has enabled a wider audience to access premium pet products. Urban pet owners, in particular, have embraced online purchasing, with over 40% preferring e-commerce for their pet care needs.

Market Challenges

High Cost of Premium Products : While the demand for premium pet snacks is growing, the higher price points of these products remain a challenge in price-sensitive markets like India. Many consumers still opt for economy brands due to affordability concerns, which limits the overall market share of premium and super-premium products. Manufacturers need to balance quality with affordability to expand their reach among middle-income pet owners.

Lack of Awareness in Rural Areas: Despite the growing demand for pet snacks in urban centers, the market penetration remains low in rural areas, where pet ownership rates are also rising. Limited access to pet care products and a lack of awareness about the benefits of specialized snacks and treats hinder market growth in these regions. Pet food companies are exploring opportunities to expand their distribution networks and educate consumers in rural areas to tap into this untapped market potential.

India Pet Snacks and Treats Market Future Outlook

The India pet snacks and treats market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, driven by rising pet ownership, increased consumer spending, and the growing influence of premium products. The market is projected to grow with opportunities emerging in niche segments like organic and functional treats. Manufacturers that focus on innovative product formulations, eco-friendly packaging, and expanded distribution networks are likely to thrive in this growing market.

Future Market Opportunities

Growing Interest in Organic and Natural Products: There is a rising trend towards organic and natural pet snacks as consumers become more conscious about their pets' health. By 2024, 35% of urban pet owners in India are actively seeking out organic snacks that are free from artificial preservatives and additives. This shift is in line with global trends favoring healthier, chemical-free products for both humans and pets. The rise in demand for organic snacks aligns with Indias overall push towards sustainable and eco-friendly consumerism.

Expansion into Tier 2 and Tier 3 Cities : Indias Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are emerging as untapped markets for pet snacks. In 2024, cities like Lucknow, Jaipur, and Coimbatore are seeing increased pet ownership due to rising disposable incomes and changing lifestyles. Over 10 million households in these cities are now able to afford premium pet products, providing a substantial growth opportunity for pet snack manufacturers. Moreover, improved infrastructure and e-commerce expansion have made these markets more accessible, allowing companies to reach new consumer bases
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