In 2022, the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) estimated that the total pet population across Europe increased from 340 million to 352 million. However, FEDIAF cautioned against direct year-to-year comparisons due to a change in their data collection timeframe for the latest report. Moving forward, FEDIAF will report pet populations based on data from two years prior to publication.
Despite these methodological adjustments, cats maintained their status as the most numerous pets in Europe, totaling 129 million and representing 27% of households. Dogs followed closely with 106 million, accounting for 25% of households. Overall, 166 million European households, or 50%, included at least one type of pet. Notably, the Russian Federation reported the largest numbers of both dogs and cats.
The European pet food industry operates within one of the world’s largest markets, characterized by significant regional diversity. While growth rates in many European countries may not match those in some developing economies, the European market remains robust and serves as a trendsetter globally.
Two prominent trends driving the industry include humanization and premiumization. European consumers, increasingly conscious about the ingredients in their own diets, are extending this scrutiny to pet foods, leading to a rising demand for premium, natural, and organic pet food products.
Moreover, sustainability has become a pivotal concern for European pet owners, influencing the practices of pet food manufacturers. Companies are increasingly sourcing ingredients sustainably and adopting environmentally friendly packaging solutions to meet consumer expectations for eco-friendly products.
In conclusion, the European pet food industry continues to evolve, driven by consumer preferences for high-quality, sustainable products, and it remains a key player in shaping global trends in the pet care market.
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