Animal Drugs Market Size – By Product, By Animal Type, By Route of Administration, By Distribution Channel, Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Animal Drugs Market Size

The global animal drugs market was valued at USD 43.3 billion in 2024. The market is expected to reach from USD 46.3 billion in 2025 to USD 78.9 billion in 2034, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period. The market is experiencing considerable growth driven by increasing animal population globally, high adoption of pet animals for companionship, rising cases of chronic diseases in animals, and rising expenditure on veterinary care. As per the World Animal Foundation estimates, the companion animal population reached approximately 967 million worldwide, of which 522 million were dogs and 445 million were cats. 
 

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global livestock population is roughly 3.6 billion, of which approximately 2 billion represents the total number of livestock animals used for meat and dairy products. Similarly, the global poultry population has reached an astounding 26 billion. Such high volume of animals increases the demand for various animal health products including pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and feed additives, thereby boosting the market growth. Moreover, availability of advanced medical facilities for pets, cutting-edge therapeutics, increasing number of veterinary hospitals and clinics, and high adoption of pet insurance are set to positively impact industry growth.
 

Also, rising prevalence of several chronic diseases in animals, such as obesity, osteoarthritis, respiratory diseases, dental problems, diabetes, and cancer increases the demand for drugs, further enhancing the market growth. As per the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC), diabetes is rising faster in pets, with more than half a million cats and dogs diagnosed with diabetes each year. 
 

Further, several technological advancements in the field of veterinary medicine are set to positively influence the animal health industry. Recent developments such as telemedicine platforms and point-of-care diagnostics coupled with ongoing research and development activities in veterinary medicine is set to bring rapid expansion in the animal drugs market.
 

Animal drugs refer to the pharmaceutical and biological products formulated to treat, prevent, or manage diseases in animals. These drugs are categorized into broad range of products such as drugs, vaccines, and medicated feed additives. These drugs are increasingly used to cure medical conditions and further restrict the spread of infectious conditions among animals.
 

Animal Drugs Market Trends

• The rising trend of pet humanization and increased consumer spending on pet health, positively influences the market growth. According to recent data, nearly 68% of households in the U.S. at present own a pet. This has created a substantial demand for the pet products such as veterinary drugs. Also, as owners increasingly consider pets as a part of their family, the average amount spent per household on pets is rising.
   
• For example, an average American pet owner spent USD 1,960 on their pet(s) in 2023. The average pet dog costs USD 143 per month in 2024; cat ownership costs USD 90.50 per month, per cat. Thus, as households increase their spending on pets, there is a higher spending on animal pharmaceutical products, thereby fueling the animal drugs market growth.
   
• Rising incidence of chronic diseases in pets also aids in the market growth.  For instance, diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common endocrinopathy in both dogs and cats. Obesity is a significant risk factor, especially in cats. With nearly half of clinicians reporting an increase in pet obesity in the last two years, diabetes is expected to become more prevalent. Such rise in chronic diseases increases the demand for effective treatment modalities, thereby fostering market growth.
   
• Similarly, rise in the cases of infectious diseases in animals, increases the demand for animal vaccines. In up to 99% of the human rabies cases, dogs are responsible for virus transmission. Veterinary vaccines, such as Rabies vaccine, play an important role in curbing the spread of such infectious diseases.
   
• Further, the high adoption of pet insurance is expected to be an instrumental factor in driving the market expansion. According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association, in 2023, the U.S. experienced 17.1% growth in total insured pets. Thus, surging demand for pet insurance coupled with the growing number of insured animals will drive the animal drugs market expansion.
   
• Several initiatives by government and non-government bodies towards better animal welfare and safety, propel the market growth. For instance, in May 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced approximately USD 22.2 million to enhance prevention, preparedness, early detection, and rapid response to the most damaging diseases that threaten U.S. livestock. Such initiatives, aimed at improving animal health, benefit the market growth.
   

Animal Drugs Market Analysis

Based on the product, the animal drugs market is segmented into drugs, vaccines, and medicated feed additives. In 2024, drugs segment accounted for highest market share with a revenue of USD 23.8 billion. The market was valued at USD 19.6 billion, 20.9 billion, and 22.4 billion in 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively.
 

• Drugs play an essential role in treating several ailments in pets. This segment includes antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, anti-infective drugs, and other key medications that are widely used for treating several diseases in animals.
   
• Also, rising prevalence of chronic diseases in animals coupled with growing awareness among pet owners is increasing the adoption of veterinary pharmaceuticals, thereby boosting the segmental growth.
   
• Innovation of new drugs and therapies in veterinary medicine for companion animals has increased market growth because it expands the treatment options that can be provided.
   
• The availability of advanced drug formulations and novel biologic drugs further enhances the market growth.
   

Based on the animal type, the animal drugs market is classified into companion animals and livestock animals. The companion animals segment held the highest revenue in 2024 with a market share of 59.2%. The companion animals’ segment is further classified into dogs, cats, horses, and other companion animals.
 

• This substantial growth is attributed to the rising adoption rate of animals such as dogs, cats, birds, and horses as pets. More than half of the global population is estimated to have a pet at home.
   
• Globally, dogs are the most popular pet, present in around one in three homes. Nearly a quarter of pet owners have a cat. Therefore, the sheer number of companion animals along with increased spending is expected to propel the segmental growth.
   
• Similarly, there has been a significant increase in the incidence of various diseases among the companion animals. According to data published in the National Institute of Health (NIH), cancer is the leading cause of death in 47% of dogs, especially dogs over age ten, and 32% of cats. This rising burden of chronic diseases in pets translates to greater demand for animal drugs.
   
• Moreover, the increasing focus of manufacturers to develop and launch innovative animal drugs is set to further propel market growth.
   

Based on the route of administration, the animal drugs market is classified into oral, injectable, topical, and other routes of administration. The injectable segment dominated the market in 2024 and is anticipated to witness rapid growth at a CAGR of 5.7% over the forecast years.
 

• The injectable route involves the administration of medication via intramuscular, subcutaneous, and intravenous techniques. This method is favored due to the rapid onset of action and precise dosing, making it ideal for emergencies and acute treatments.
   
• Most vaccines, antibiotics, and analgesic medications that require quick and effective delivery of the drug are administered via the parenteral route. For example, increasing use of biologics such as monoclonal antibodies and recombinant vaccines, have a high usage of injector devices.
   
• Moreover, innovations in injectable drug delivery by manufacturers further increases its adoption. In June 2022, NuGen Medical Devices Inc. launched the PetJet, a needle-free injector for use in pet cats and dogs. This device enables pet owners and veterinarians to conveniently administer medications without the need for needles. The PetJet allows for fast, pain free delivery of medications, making it less stressful for pets and easier for people to administer.
   
• Further, the growing global burden of chronic diseases like diabetes and arthritis which require frequent injectable drugs is also anticipated to fuel the growth of this market.
   

Based on the distribution channel, the animal drugs market is bifurcated into veterinary hospital pharmacies, E-commerce, and retail pharmacies. In 2024, the veterinary hospital pharmacies segment dominated the market and is expected to grow at CAGR of 6% between 2025 to 2034.
 

• Veterinary hospital pharmacies are dedicatedly established to dispense medications for animals. A wide range of animal healthcare products, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vaccines, and supplements are available in pharmacies.
   
• As they provide a comprehensive range of medications, it makes them a convenient and reliable source for purchasing animal healthcare products.
   
• Factors such as their brand recognition, high reputation for quality products, and expertise in medication dispensing are responsible for market dominance. Pet owners are more likely to trust a reputable pharmacy to purchase animal healthcare product for their animals.
   

North America animal drugs market held the largest market share of 41.4% in 2024 in the global market, and it is anticipated to expand at a 5.3% CAGR over the forecast period. The U.S. market was valued at USD 13.6 billion in 2021. The market size was valued at USD 14.4 billion in 2022 and reached USD 15.4 billion in 2023.
 

• According to the 2021–2022 National Pet Owners Survey by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 70% of the U.S. households owned at least one type of pet. Similarly, almost 69 million of the U.S. households have at least one dog, and 45.3 million have at least one cat, about 9.9 million have birds, and 3.5 million have horses.
   
• The country also boasts a high population of livestock animals. For instance, there were 87.2 million head of cattle and calves on the U.S. farms as of January 2024.
   
• Such high volume of companion and livestock animals in the country increases the demand for various animal pharmaceuticals such as drugs, vaccines, and medicated feed additives, thus boosting the growth of the U.S. market.
   

Europe animal drugs market accounted for USD 12 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to show considerable growth over the forecast period.
 

• Rising animal adoption in the European region coupled with increasing initiatives by government to improve animal healthcare is anticipated to spur the market growth.
   
• As of 2023, 45% of German households have a pet and 14% of households have two pets or more. This totals approximately 34.3 million pets. Cats and dogs are the most popular house pets, with 25% of German households owning cats and 21% of households owning dogs.
   
• The rising adoption of pet animals coupled with surging expenditure on veterinary care is set to augment the market size in Germany.
   
• Moreover, advancements in veterinary medicine with frequent introduction and approval of novel pharmaceuticals will boost the animal drugs market in the Europe region.
   
• Also, large livestock population in the country drives the demand for various vaccines and feed additives. In 2024, the cattle population in Germany was 10.63 million.
   
• Favorable laws and policies implemented in the region by regulatory authorities’ further aid in the growth of companies operating in the market.
   

India animal drugs sector is poised to witness high growth in Asia Pacific animal drugs market.
 

• India has a large pet population with over 31 million pet dogs and 2.44 million pet cats. The increasing pet ownership and rising disposable income in the country coupled with high expenditure on pet healthcare will offer significant market growth opportunity in the country.
   
• Also, rapidly expanding veterinary infrastructure in the country such as veterinary hospitals and clinics will further enhance market growth.
   
• Furthermore, several government initiatives to support animal health and wellness also stimulate market growth. For instance, the National Animal Disease Control Programme is a flagship scheme launched in 2019 that aims to control foot & mouth disease and brucellosis by vaccinating the animals. Such initiatives aid in high adoption of animal pharmaceuticals and vaccines, thereby fostering the market growth.
   

Brazil animal drugs market is anticipated to witness rapid growth over the forecast years.
 

• Brazil has the third-largest pet population in the world with 160 million pets, of which 60 million are dogs, 30 million cats, and 32 million pet-owning households.
   
• The country is also home to a large livestock population, with Brazil being the third-largest cattle producer and second-largest beef exporter in the world. Such high animal volume coupled with strong growth in veterinary expenditure is anticipated to foster market growth.
   
• Additionally, the presence of several international as well as local veterinary companies in the country further aid in the market growth.
   

Saudi Arabia animal drugs market is set for lucrative growth in the Middle East and Africa market.
 

• Rising disposable income coupled with a rapidly expanding veterinary infrastructure will offer lucrative market growth opportunity in the country. Also, one of the factors supporting the growing trend of acquiring and caring for pets in Saudi Arabia is the notable increase in the number of veterinary clinics.
   
• As per data published by GlobalPETS, currently, there are 434 clinics, and the number of specialized veterinary pharmacies has increased to 1,366, catering specifically to the needs of pets.
   
• In addition, rising government initiatives to boost animal welfare and support business in veterinary industry aid in market growth.
   

Animal Drugs Market Share

The animal drugs industry is highly competitive, with several key companies striving to develop novel formulations in the market. The market is fragmented in nature, with major organizations, local small players, and start-ups joining the industry competition. Top 6 companies in the animal drugs market such as Zoetis Inc., Elanco Animal Health, Merck & Co., Inc., Virbac, Ceva Sante Animale, and Boehringer Ingelheim International account for 55% - 60% of the global market share.
 

Additionally, there are several local and regional players operating in the market are boosting competition by providing affordable options at lower costs. These players are also involved in several strategies such as mergers, acquisitions, and novel product launches to expand their product offerings. For instance, in February 2021, Vetoquinol announced the acquisition of the Canadian rights to the Profender product family from Elanco Animal Health. The Profender range consists of spot-on de-wormer products for cats. Such initiatives by market players enhances the competitive landscape in the animal drugs market, thereby boosting the market growth.
 

Animal Drugs Market Companies

Prominent players operating in the animal drugs industry include:

• Agrolabo
• Boehringer Ingelheim International
• Ceva Santé Animale
• Chanelle Pharma
• Dechra Pharmaceuticals
• Durvet
• Elanco Animal Health
• Endovac Animal Health
• HIPRA
• Indian Immunologicals
• Merck
• Norbrook
• Neogen Corporation
• Symrise
• Vetoquinol
• Virbac
• Zoetis
   

Zoetis is one of the leading global animal health companies. The company discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes a diverse portfolio of animal health medicines and vaccines and has operations in over 100 countries. The company's dedication to R&D stimulates innovation in animal healthcare, allowing the launch of novel, effective, and safe treatments.
 

Boehringer Ingelheim has a notable presence in the animal drugs market. The company offers a wide array of products, including vaccines, anti-infectives, parasiticides, and therapeutic solutions designed to improve animal health. NexGard SPECTRA is a chewable product designed for dogs. The launch leverages the rising trend of pet ownership and increasing awareness about pet health and wellness in India. This strategy is expected to add value to the company’s business portfolio.
 

Animal Drugs Industry News:

• In January 2025, Ceva Sante Animale and Touchlight signed an agreement to use dbDNA technology to develop and manufacture products across the animal health sector. Through this the company strengthens its product portfolio and leverage them to use advanced technologies.
   
• In September 2024, Boehringer Ingelheim acquired Saiba Animal Health, focused on development of drugs for pet to manage chronic diseases. This strategic acquisition helped the company to broaden its product portfolio and strengthen its animal health R&D pipeline.
   
• In September 2024, Elanco Animal Health announced the approval of Zenrelia to control pruritus (itching) associated with allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis in dogs. This launch facilitated the company to boost revenue growth by adding a new product.
   
• In June 2024, Merck Animal Health received approval NOBIVAC NXT Canine Flu H3N2 by the USDA which is the first and only RNA-particle technology vaccine for treating dogs with influenza. This product’s approval has helped the company to broaden its offerings and enhance its position in the market.
   
• In April 2024, Virbac acquired Sasaeah animal health subsidiary of ORIX Corporation. This strategic acquisition will bring to Virbac a leadership position in the animal vaccines market in Japan. This strategic move is expected to secure Virbac a controlling position in the Japanese animal vaccines market, enhancing its competitive edge and expanding its footprint in the region.
   

The animal drugs market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Product

• Drugs
  • Antiparasitic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Anti-infectives
  • Corticosteroids
  • Tranquilizers
  • Cardiovascular drugs
  • Gastrointestinal drugs
• Vaccines
  • Modified live vaccines (MLV)
  • Killed inactivated vaccines
  • Recombinant vaccines
• Medicated feed additives
  • Antibiotics
  • Vitamins
  • Amino acids
  • Enzymes
  • Antioxidants
  • Prebiotics and probiotics
  • Minerals
  • Other medicated feed additives

Market, By Animal Type

• Companion animals
  • Dogs
  • Cats
  • Horses
  • Other companion animals
• Livestock animals
  • Poultry
  • Swine
  • Cattle
  • Fish
  • Other livestock animals

Market, By Route of Administration

• Oral
• Injectable
• Topical
• Other routes of administration

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Veterinary hospital pharmacies
• E-commerce
• Retail pharmacies

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Poland
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East and Africa
  • South Africa
  • GCC countries
  • Israel