The retail market of dog and cat food in China achieved strong growth from 2015-19, with a value CAGR of 13.9%. The robust performance was driven by increasing pet ownership as well as growing penetration and premiumisation of pet food. Mintel estimates that the retail market value of dog and cat food in China will reach RMB25.5 billion in 2020. The long-term growth momentum of the market is unchanged, with an expected value CAGR of 8.9% from 2020-25.

Under the evolving attitudes of treating pets as family members or friends and increasing knowledge about pet keeping, pet owners are becoming sophisticated when choosing pet food. Manufacturers should focus on nutrition and functionality to satisfy pet owners’ interest in the dietary and holistic wellbeing of their pets. Pet owners’ focus on the human-pet bond highlights another innovation opportunity for manufacturers to promote products that create a fun feeding experience.

Mintel defines the pet food market as food and snacks and treats for household pets, including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents, fishes, reptiles, amphibians and birds. Food for dogs and cats is the primary focus in this Report and is categorised as dry, wet, and snacks and treats.

Market sizing includes wet and dry food for dogs and cats only. All treats and snacks are included in dry food.

Though pet food for other animals is not covered in the sizing, it is included in the consumer research and is discussed in the consumer sections.

• Non-specific or unpackaged products

• Dog chews and rawhides

• Pet supplements

Mintel divides consumers into three groups based on their MPI (Monthly Personal Income).

High personal income is defined as MPI above RMB10,000 in tier one cities, or above RMB9,000 in tier two cities or below;

Middle personal income is defined as MPI of RMB6,000-10,000 in tier one cities, or RMB5,000-9,000 in tier two cities or below;

Low personal income is defined as MPI below RMB6,000 in tier one cities, or below RMB5,000 in tier two cities or below.