The pet care industry continues to show resilience and growth in 2025, with recent data indicating a surge in premium and health-focused products. According to a report released by PetDesk and London Research on March 17, 31% of pet owners are considering switching veterinary clinics this year, highlighting the importance of digital convenience in veterinary care. The study, based on a survey of 1,000 North American pet parents, reveals that 57% have experienced difficulty booking appointments, while 42% don't receive reminders for appointments or vaccines.
In response to these trends, the industry is seeing increased merger and acquisition activity. On March 11, General Mills completed its $1.45 billion acquisition of Whitebridge Pet Brands' North American premium cat food and pet treat business, including brands Tiki Pets and Cloud Star. This move aims to strengthen General Mills' position in the fast-growing cat nutrition and pet treats segments.
The global pet care market is projected to grow from $259.37 billion in 2024 to $427.75 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate of 6.45%. This growth is driven by increasing pet ownership, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness of animal health and wellness.
Sustainability and eco-friendliness are becoming key factors in product development and consumer choice. The industry is also witnessing the emergence of new product categories, such as pet wipes and gut-supporting formulas, with approximately 7% of pet owners purchasing gut-supporting products for their pets last year.
Digital platforms are playing an increasingly crucial role in pet care. Michael Freeman, Chief Marketing Officer at PetDesk, notes that pet parents now expect an easy, digital-first experience from their veterinary providers. Clinics that fail to adopt automated reminders, texting, and online booking risk losing clients to more tech-savvy competitors.
The industry is also adapting to regulatory changes, with new bans on the sale of wild animals for consumption impacting certain segments of the market. Additionally, there's a growing focus on sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastic-based pet products, aligning with broader environmental concerns.
As the pet care industry continues to evolve, companies are investing in innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable practices to meet the changing demands of pet owners and navigate the competitive landscape.