Yearender 2024: Trends that ruled the pet industry

Brands are meeting this demand by offering preservative-free, wholesome meals for pets, making it easier for owners to ensure their pets’ health without compromising on convenience. Ingredient transparency has also become a priority, with many brands focusing on high-quality proteins, superfoods, and probiotics. “Pet parents now prefer premium, natural components free from artificial colors, additives, and preservatives,” said J S Rama Krishna, Business Head at Carniwel.

Celebrating special moments with pets

The festive season isn’t just for humans anymore—pet parents are increasingly looking for ways to celebrate with their pets. “About 56 per cent of pet parents in India consider their pets as family, driving demand for festive accessories and themed products,” said Narang. From Christmas collars to Diwali outfits, pet-friendly festive collections have grown in popularity, making celebrations more inclusive.

Increasing awareness around pet grooming and spas

Regular grooming has become a key part of pet care. Dr Rachana from East Coast Pet Hospital, Chennai, said, “Neglecting grooming during colder months can lead to dryness and irritation.” Specialised grooming and spa services, where groomers don’t just style but sing, cuddle, and treat each pet as their own, are gaining traction.

Toys like cat scratchers and roller balls keep pets engaged while promoting mental well-being. (Source: Pexels)

Rise in pet adoption and rescue culture

According to Narang, pet adoption in India is thriving with an estimated 600,000 adoptions annually. “However, there remains a huge number of animals needing homes, with over 60 million cats and dogs living on the streets and another 8.8 million in shelters,” she said. She claimed that organisations like the Heads Up For Tails Foundation conducts adoption drives twice or thrice every month, helping over 500 dogs and cats find their forever homes in 2024, and that over 200 streeties were adopted at their stores and warehouses across the country.

Increased focus on pet health and wellness

Holistic wellness of pets, ensuring long and healthy lives, is gaining more prominence, with a surge in demand for healthcare products, supplements, and mental stimulation tools like puzzles and interactive toys. Toys like cat scratchers and roller balls keep pets engaged while promoting mental well-being.

Indian-made pet brands on the rise

Indian pet care brands are gaining traction as locally produced products align with the growing preference for quality and affordability. As per Redseer Strategy Consultants, the Indian pet care market is projected to reach $7-7.5 billion by FY28, driven by a growing emphasis on pet wellness.

Rise of pet tech and telemedicine

According to J S Rama Krishna, technology is transforming pet care, offering solutions like activity trackers, AI-powered pet cameras, and telemedicine. These innovations make it easier for pet parents to monitor their pets’ health and wellbeing, particularly for routine check-ups or minor ailments.

The pet industry’s growth in 2024 was driven by innovation, consumer awareness, and a stronger bond between pets and their owners. With trends like premium nutrition, quick-commerce solutions, and culturally aligned offerings, 2025 is poised to further elevate the lives of pets and their human companions.