Cats are a popular choice in Europe when it comes to pet ownership, although we don’t see them outside as often as their canine friends. As shown in this statistic, Germany and France are the two countries leading the list of cat owners in the EU, with the former’s narrow win. While Germany also ranks as the top EU country with the highest number of pet dogs, cats still win in European households.

EU loves cats

Compared with the cat population in Germany and France, countries such as Latvia, Ireland and Estonia had a low number of household felines. Yet across Europe in general, the number of cats has gone up significantly since 2010. In 2022, the EU alone was home to a large population of cats, making them the most preferred pets.

Cat food in pet care industry

The population of household cats in the European Union also corresponds to the volume of the pet care industry in this region. Between 2010 and 2022, pet food industry achieved steady growth.

In 2023, Romania ranked highest for cat ownership among countries in the European Union, with 48 percent of households in Romania owning at least one cat. Poland followed in second with about 41 percent of cat-owning households. That year, the overall pet cat population on the continent was estimated at around 129 million. Pet food production in Europe The pet food industry in Europe gained pace in recent years and presently holds a prominent position on the global level. In 2022, Europe was the largest pet food producing region in the world, with a production volume of approximately 11.78 million metric tons, compared to 11.2 million metric tons produced in North America. That year, Europe’s pet food production volume was, however, one of the slowest-growing in the world. The Latin American region was the fastest-growing. European pet food companies Europe’s growing pet food industry also means there are many players in the pet food market competing for profits. In 2021, United Pet Food Producers, a Belgian pet food manufacturer, garnered the highest revenues of approximately 800 million U.S. dollars. Other leading pet food companies in Europe included Agrilomen SA fromSpain and Deuerer from Germany, with annual revenues totaling 753 million and 750 million U.S. dollars, respectively.

In 2018, Brazil was the country with the highest amount of cats from the presented Latin American countries, with **** million cats. Mexico followed, with *** million. In 2021, the pet food market in Latin America is expected to reach a value of nearly ** billion U.S. dollars.

In 2022, there were an estimated **** million pet cats owned by households in France.  That same year, the share of French households owning a cat was estimated at around ** percent. France ranked among the 2 European countries where it was most common to have a cat: only Germany had a higher cat population. The number of cats in other countries, like in the United Kingdom or in Italy, was somewhat lower than that of Germany and France. Pet cats in France In 2022, the cat products segment accounted for ** percent of the total sales revenue on the pet products market in France. The majority of French people cat-related expenses is dedicated to food. Pet market in France On the pet products market, dry products made up the majority of the sales volume. For cats and dogs, a majority of sales are done in hyper and supermarkets, followed by garden centers.

Amongst domestic animals, the domestic cat, Felis catus, is widely considered to be one of the most serious threats to wildlife conservation. This is particularly evident for island ecosystems, as data for mainland countries are often lacking. In Italy, the European country that is richest in biodiversity, cats are very popular pets. In this work, we aimed at assessing the potential spectrum of wild vertebrates that may be killed by free-ranging domestic cats, and we considered our results within the context of their conservation status and IUCN threat category. We collected data on the impact of cats both through a citizen science approach (wildlife predations by 145 cats belonging to 125 owners) and by following 21 of these 145 cats for 1 year and recording all of the prey they brought home. Domestic cats may kill at least 207 species (2042 predation events) in Italy; among those, 34 are listed as “Threatened” or “Near Threatened” by the IUCN and Italian Red Lists. Birds and mammals such as passerines and rodents were reported to be the groups most commonly killed by free-ranging cats. When considering this diet in functional trait space, we observed that the class occupying the largest functional space was that of birds, followed by mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Thus, the largest impact was on the functional structure of mammal and bird communities. The use of a collar bell did not affect the predation rate of cats, and the number of prey items brought home decreased with increasing distance from the countryside. We provided strong evidence that free-ranging domestic cats may seriously affect the conservation of threatened and non-threatened wildlife species, which are already suffering from population declines due to other causes, e.g., habitat loss. The mitigation of the impacts of domestic cats on wildlife requires dissemination projects promoting responsible cat ownership, as well as a restriction of free-ranging behavior, particularly at nighttime.

European Export of Dog or Cat Food by Country, 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

As of 2023, an estimated *** million European households owned at least one pet. During the last decade, the number of pet-owning households has increased by approximately ** million. Pets in the European Union The most popular pets in the European Union (EU) are cats. There are approximately ****** more cats than dogs in the EU. Besides cats and dogs, other popular pets are ornamental birds, such as canaries, parakeets, parrots, and small mammals, like mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, or rabbits. The number of cats in Europe has steadily increased during the last decade. In 2010, there were about ****** cats in Europe. By 2021, this figure had reached over *******. A similar trend has been observed in the number of dogs in Europe. Cats in the European Union While cats are popular companions for households in many EU countries, Germany and France have the highest numbers of cats among EU countries by a considerable margin. However, these countries are also the most populous in the EU. Taking a look at the share of households who own at least one cat in the EU shows that the share of cat lovers in Romania is the highest. Almost half of Romanian households own a cat. The share of cat-owning households seems to be comparatively high in many eastern European countries.

Global Export of Dog or Cat Food by Country, 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

With over 470 million dogs kept as pets worldwide, dogs came out on top as the leading type of pet in 2018. Within the same year, there were roughly 370 million pet cats in the world.

Pets in the European Union

While dogs were globally speaking the most common type of pet, cats were more common in the European Union in 2018. Roughly 75 million people within this region had a pet cat in 2018, compared to the 65 million pet dogs. That year, Germany had about nine and a half million pet dogs, making it the country with the highest number within the European Union. Other top dog-loving countries included the United Kingdom, Poland, and France.

Other pets in Germany

Besides cats and dogs, Germans had many other household pets in 2018. About five and a half million small pets, such as hamsters and rabbits, were kept by Germans that year. Additionally, about two million households in Germany owned an aquarium and roughly one and a half million households owned a garden pond.

Pet Insurance Market Outlook

The global pet insurance market size is projected to grow from USD 7.3 billion in 2023 to USD 20.7 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.2%. This robust growth is driven by increasing pet ownership and rising awareness of pet health and wellness. The market is expected to witness significant growth owing to the trend of humanization of pets, where pet owners are increasingly treating pets as family members, thus willing to spend more on their healthcare and well-being.

A major growth factor for the pet insurance market is the increasing awareness among pet owners about the rising costs of veterinary services. As medical advancements in veterinary care continue to develop, the treatment options for pets have also become more advanced and, consequently, more expensive. This has spurred the demand for pet insurance policies that can mitigate the financial burden of unforeseen medical expenses. Moreover, the increasing number of companion animals around the world and the growing expenditure on their healthcare are further propelling the market growth. In countries like the United States and Canada, there is a notable rise in the adoption of pet insurance to safeguard against high veterinary costs.

The humanization of pets is another significant driver contributing to the market's expansion. Pet owners are increasingly viewing their pets as integral family members and are willing to invest in their health and well-being. This trend is particularly evident in developed regions such as North America and Europe, where disposable incomes are higher and the willingness to spend on pet healthcare is more pronounced. Beyond just treating illnesses, pet insurance policies now cover preventative care, which further drives the market as owners seek comprehensive health plans for their pets.

Technological advancements in the pet insurance industry are also playing a crucial role in market growth. The integration of digital platforms for managing insurance policies, claims, and providing telemedicine services is making it easier for pet owners to access and manage their insurance plans. The rise of mobile apps and online portals allows for more efficient and user-friendly services, encouraging more pet owners to adopt insurance policies. These digital tools also facilitate better customer engagement and personalized service, enhancing overall customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Pet cat Insurance is becoming increasingly popular as more cat owners recognize the importance of safeguarding their feline companions against unexpected medical expenses. Cats, while generally requiring less medical attention than dogs, are still susceptible to a variety of health issues that can arise suddenly. Insurance policies tailored specifically for cats often cover a range of medical treatments, including emergency care and chronic conditions, providing peace of mind to pet owners. As urban living continues to rise, with more people choosing cats as their preferred pets, the demand for cat-specific insurance policies is expected to grow. This trend is particularly noticeable in metropolitan areas where veterinary costs can be significantly higher.

Regionally, North America holds the largest share of the pet insurance market, driven by high pet ownership rates and a strong focus on pet health and wellness. Europe follows closely, with countries such as the UK, Sweden, and Germany showing significant adoption rates. The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a lucrative market, with growing awareness and increasing pet adoption rates in countries like China, Japan, and Australia. These regions are expected to witness substantial market growth due to rising disposable incomes and changing attitudes towards pet care.

Policy Type Analysis

The pet insurance market is segmented into various policy types, including Accident & Illness, Accident Only, and Others. The Accident & Illness segment is anticipated to hold the largest market share due to its comprehensive coverage, which includes a wide range of medical issues from minor injuries to serious illnesses. This type of policy is highly preferred by pet owners seeking extensive health coverage for their pets. The extensive coverage provided by these policies ensures that pet owners are protected against unexpected high veterinary costs, makin

European Import of Dog or Cat Food Share by Country (Kilograms), 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

The present dataset is based on a questionnaire which is also part of this package. The enclose questionnaire includes identifiable and relevant variables names (yellow highlighted).

Participants were recruited by Norstat, a European-based survey company, with the aim of gaining a representative sample of Austrian, Danish and UK citizens, including pet owners. The survey company administers and hosts online panels comprising citizens from many European countries. We aimed for a sample that is representative in terms of age, gender, and region. Therefore, a stratified sampling principle was set up where individuals within each stratum were randomly invited to participate. The invitations were issued through e-mail that contained a link to the online questionnaire. Data was collected from 11-25^th of March 2022 in Austria, from 11-24^th of March 2022 in Denmark and from 8-23^rd of March 2022 in the UK. The invitation provided information about the background of the study, the participating universities, ethical approval, estimated time for questionnaire completion and further, participants were informed that the completion of the questionnaire was voluntary and anonymous, and that they could exit the survey at any point. Before participants were directed to the survey, they ensured informed consent by confirming that they are over 17 years old, and consent to participate in this survey.

Besides the questionnaire the dataset includes a csv and an Excel file consisting of the data that is used in the ms. and an rtf and a pdf file with data variable names/labels, and value labels.

This statistic shows the share of pet owners in the population of selected countries all over the world as of 2016. During the survey, ** percent of respondents in Argentina stated they own a dog, while ** percent said they own a cat.

European Sold Production of Dog or Cat Food Share by Country (Kilograms), 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

According to cognitive market research, the pet snacks and treats market size will be USD XX billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of XX % from 2024 – 2031.

The global Pet Snacks And Treats market will expand significantly by 11.8% CAGR between 2024 and 2031.
The Dog type segment accounts for the largest market share and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period.
The eatable segment led the market with a revenue share of 67.41% in 2023 and The chewable segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 13.5% over the forecast period.
The Conventional category currently has the largest market share and The Organic category is the fastest-growing subsegment.
The hypermarket and supermarket segments are the market's largest contributor and the Online channel is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 13.1% over the forecast period.
North America dominated the pet snacks and treats market with a revenue share of over 52.52% in 2023, whereas The fastest growth will be registered in the Asia Pacific nations, especially in countries like China, Australia, and Japan.

Market Dynamics of the Pet Snacks and Treats

Key Drivers of the Pet Snacks and Treats Market

Rapid urbanization and the adoption of pets lead to a boost in the demand for pet snacks and treats

Most urban couples around the world acquire small mammals as pets. Unlike previous generations, millennials are more open to novel and advanced products. They are willing to pay more money to get high-quality products for their dogs, and all of these factors are projected to generate significant market expansion in the approaching years. Pet adoption is the most common way to get a new pet. Adoption is always a better alternative than buying a puppy from a pet store or selecting a kitten from a litter. Adopting dogs reduces stress and increases savings. In 2019, the American Pet Products Association reported that approximately 4.1 million animals were adopted from shelters. (2 million dogs, 2.1 million cats). Furthermore, it is estimated that 78 million dogs and 85.8 million cats were owned in the United States between 2015 and 2016. A dog and a cat can be found in around 44% and 35% of all American households. According to the APPA, 23% of dogs and 31% of cats come from animal shelters or humane societies, while 34% and 23% come from breeders. KHS reported that 6,103 animals were adopted in 2020. 193 animals were reunited with their owners, while another 2,648 animals were donated to KHS rescue affiliates. Urban pet owners have access to a greater range of pet food items, which is likely to influence their purchasing patterns towards more diverse and specialized products. Pet ownership trends are shifting as an increasing number of individuals choose to live in cities. With limited space and stressful lifestyles, urban pet owners seek convenience and variety in pet food choices. According to Pet Data, in 2018, the adoption rate for dogs in China was 11.8%, while the adoption rate for cats was 19.8%. Since the beginning of China's animal welfare movement, Pet Form, an organization that teaches and trains stray cats and dogs before releasing them to shelters, has helped over 10,000 rescued cats and dogs find homes. The consumer trend toward pet adoption has boosted pet food premiumization, which is expected to grow the pet food products market throughout the forecast period.

Proliferation of E-Commerce is also a driving force for the pet snacks and treats Market 

Pet food has become one of the fastest-growing internet categories worldwide, next to infant and baby nutrition. Pet e-shops have a high growth potential and may soon become the second-largest distribution channel after conventional retail locations. Mars Petcare, one of China's largest pet food manufacturers, has collaborated with e-commerce platforms includin000000g Tmall, JD, and Amazon. It also plans to invest more money into internet platforms and expedite its research on pet owners' purchasing and preferences. The pet boom has resulted in the development of pet companies in developing nations such as India. BarkNBond, for example, is an app that helps people find everything they need for their pets, from veterinary clinics to pet-friendly eateries. The growing number of Android phone users and internet users, as well as advancements in e-commerce marketing tactics, are driving up...

Silica Gel Cat Litter Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global silica gel cat litter market size reached USD 1.26 billion in 2024, reflecting a robust demand driven by pet ownership trends and consumer preferences for advanced hygiene solutions. The market is poised to expand at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period, with projections indicating a market value of USD 2.09 billion by 2033. This growth is primarily attributed to rising urbanization, increased awareness of pet hygiene, and evolving retail channels that make premium pet products more accessible. The market’s expansion is further supported by innovations in product formulations and packaging, as well as a growing emphasis on convenience and odor control among consumers.

One of the key factors fueling the growth of the silica gel cat litter market is the increasing rate of pet adoption globally, particularly in urban and suburban regions. The shift towards nuclear families and the growing trend of pet humanization have resulted in a higher demand for specialized pet care products. Silica gel cat litter, known for its superior moisture absorption and odor control properties, has gained significant traction among pet owners who seek a cleaner and more convenient litter solution. Furthermore, the rising disposable income in developing countries has enabled more households to afford premium pet care products, accelerating the market’s growth trajectory. The convenience of silica gel cat litter, which typically requires less frequent changing than traditional clay-based alternatives, is also appealing to busy urban dwellers.

Another significant growth driver is the continuous innovation in silica gel cat litter formulations and packaging. Manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to enhance the performance, safety, and environmental profile of their products. Innovations such as dust-free, biodegradable, and scented variants have broadened the appeal of silica gel cat litter among environmentally conscious and health-aware consumers. Additionally, the incorporation of antimicrobial agents and natural fragrances has further differentiated silica gel products from conventional options. These advancements not only improve the user experience but also address concerns related to pet health and indoor air quality, which are increasingly important to modern consumers.

The expansion of retail distribution channels, particularly the rapid growth of e-commerce platforms, has played a pivotal role in boosting the silica gel cat litter market. Online stores offer a wide range of product choices, competitive pricing, and the convenience of home delivery, making it easier for pet owners to access premium products. Traditional retail outlets such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and specialty pet stores continue to hold a substantial share of the market, but the shift towards digital commerce is undeniable. This trend is further amplified by effective digital marketing strategies, subscription-based services, and the integration of customer reviews, which help consumers make informed purchasing decisions. As a result, the market is witnessing increased penetration in both developed and emerging economies.

Regionally, North America and Europe continue to dominate the silica gel cat litter market, accounting for a significant share of global revenues. However, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a key growth engine, driven by rising pet ownership, increasing disposable incomes, and a rapidly expanding retail infrastructure. Countries such as China, Japan, and India are witnessing a surge in demand for premium pet care products, supported by a growing middle class and changing lifestyles. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are also experiencing steady growth, albeit from a smaller base, as awareness of pet hygiene and premium pet care options increases. Overall, the regional outlook for the market remains positive, with diverse growth opportunities across both mature and developing markets.

Number (N,n) and proportions (%) of respondents owning either dog(s), cat(s) or both listed for all countries (N = 2117) and separately for Austria (n = 800), Denmark (n = 626) and the UK (n = 691).

The Europe cat food market is expected to grow at a steady CAGR of 6.20% during the forecast period of 2025-2033. In 2025, the market was valued at XX million and is projected to reach a value of XX million by 2033. The growth of the market is attributed to the increasing pet humanization trend, rising disposable income, and growing awareness about pet health and nutrition. Other factors driving the market growth include the convenience of online pet food shopping, the development of innovative cat food products, and the expansion of pet specialty stores. The market is segmented into pet food products, distribution channels, and companies. Key trends in the Europe cat food market include the increasing popularity of premium and super-premium cat food products, the growing demand for functional cat food products, and the rise of online pet food sales. The market is expected to face challenges from the increasing competition from private label brands, the threat of counterfeiting, and the fluctuating prices of raw materials. Key players in the Europe cat food market include ADM, Schell & Kampeter Inc (Diamond Pet Foods), Affinity Petcare SA, Clearlake Capital Group L P (Wellness Pet Company Inc), General Mills Inc, Mars Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc), Virba, and Heristo Aktiengesellschaft. Recent developments include: July 2023: Hill's Pet Nutrition introduced its new MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certified pollock and insect protein products for pets with sensitive stomachs and skin lines. They contain vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.May 2023: Nestle Purina launched new cat treats under the Friskies "Friskies Playfuls - treats" brand. These treats are round in shape and are available in chicken and liver and salmon and shrimp flavors for adult cats.May 2023: Virbac acquired its distributor (GS Partners) in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, which became Virbac's 35th subsidiary. This new subsidiary allows Virbac to expand its presence more in these countries.. Key drivers for this market are: Increased Demand for Meat, Initiatives By the Key Players; Focus on Animal nutrition and Health. Potential restraints include: Shift Toward Vegan- Based Diet, Changing Raw Material Prices and Strict Government Rules to Restrict Market Growth. Notable trends are: Germany dominates the European cat food market owing to its large cat population and consumers’ higher expenditure on pets.

**** million cats lived in German households as of 2024, making it the most represented animal among pet owners in the country. Dogs followed. Ownership numbers for both cats and dogs mostly increased annually during the specified time period. Cat nation Choosing a pet, or, indeed, deciding to get one, depends on various factors besides just personal preference. One of the reasons there are more cats recorded as pets than dogs in Germany might be the long-standing dog tax, so owning a cat might be a better option for some from a financial point of view, as well as cats being easier to look after for those who spend the majority of their week away at work. Among EU countries, Germany had the largest cat population, and the same was true for dogs, though there were **** thousand fewer dogs than cats. Pet food and supplies Keeping a pet leads to several types of regular costs, such as buying pet food, supplies and visits to the vet. Revenues from cat food were highest. Pet food was also bought for ornamental fish, exotic birds and small mammals. The majority of pet owners still get their supplies in brick-and-mortar stores, though a growing number are doing so online.

The European pet diet market, encompassing cat and dog food specifically formulated for various health conditions and life stages, presents a robust growth opportunity. Driven by increasing pet ownership, rising pet humanization (treating pets like family members), and a growing awareness of preventative healthcare and nutrition, the market is experiencing significant expansion. The segment showing the strongest growth is likely specialized diets for diabetes and digestive sensitivities, reflecting a trend towards addressing specific health needs. Online sales channels are also contributing to market expansion, providing convenient access to a wider range of specialized products. While the overall market size is not explicitly stated, considering a CAGR (let's assume a conservative 5% based on industry averages) and a hypothetical 2025 market value of €5 billion (a reasonable estimate based on the size of other major European markets), the market is projected to see substantial growth to approximately €6.2 billion by 2033. This is further fueled by increased spending power and the emergence of premium and super-premium pet food brands emphasizing natural ingredients and functional benefits. However, market growth faces certain constraints. Fluctuations in raw material prices, economic downturns impacting consumer spending, and increasing competition from both established and new players are potential factors limiting growth. Furthermore, regulatory changes concerning pet food ingredients and labeling could impact market dynamics. The success of individual companies will depend on their ability to innovate, cater to specific niche needs (such as organic, hypoallergenic, or sustainably sourced diets), and effectively leverage online marketing channels to reach pet owners. The market's segmentation by pet type (dogs and cats dominating), health condition (diabetes, digestive issues, renal), and distribution channel (online retail showing strong growth) highlights the diverse opportunities within this market. Regional differences in pet ownership trends and consumer spending patterns will also influence growth within specific European countries. Recent developments include: May 2023: Virbac acquired its distributor (GS Partners) in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, which became Virbac's 35th subsidiary. This new subsidiary allows Virbac to expand its presence more in these countries.March 2023: Colgate-Palmolive Company's pet care subsidiary Hill’s Pet Nutrition launched its new line of prescription diets to support pets diagnosed with cancer. This prescription line, Diet ONC Care, offers complete and balanced formulas in both dry and wet forms for cats and dogs.January 2023: Mars Incorporated partnered with the Broad Institute to create an open-access database of dog and cat genomes to advance preventive pet care. It is aimed at developing more effective precision medicines and diets that lead to scientific breakthroughs for the future of pet health.. Notable trends are: OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.