From Pet Owners to Pawrents: The Evolution of India’s Petcare Market

I still remember a moment from a few years ago when I visited a close friend who had just adopted a Labrador puppy named Bruno. Initially, it seemed like a simple addition to the household—a playful pet that would add joy to their lives. But over the next few months, something remarkable happened. Bruno wasn’t just a pet anymore; he became family. From celebrating his “barkday” to weekend grooming sessions at a pet spa, my friend and his family transformed into proud Pawrents. Their relationship with Bruno wasn’t just about companionship; it was about love, care, and responsibility—akin to parenting. This personal experience was my first glimpse into the shifting dynamics of pet ownership, which I have seen become more widespread across the country in recent years.

India's evolving petcare landscape reflects these emotional changes. No longer do people view pets simply as animals kept for utility or companionship.

As families—especially nuclear households—look for emotional connections, pets have become beloved members of the family.

This trend has given rise to a new category of consumers we now call pawrents, who treat their pets with the same care, affection, and attention as one would a child.

The Rise of India’s Petcare Market

This emotional shift has fueled rapid growth in India’s petcare industry, now valued at ~$3.6 billion—doubling since FY20. The pandemic played a pivotal role in this transformation, as many pet owners found deeper emotional bonds with their pets during lockdowns. Today, India is home to approximately 32 million pets, with significant growth potential.

Pet parents now regularly seek services like professional grooming (spa sessions, haircuts), rely on packaged foods, and schedule routine vet visits.

On average, these families spend about ?50,000 annually on petcare, which accounts for 5-8% of their household income.

The emotional connection has translated into financial responsibility, as they willingly invest in healthcare, nutrition, and experiences for their pets.

New Trends: Petcare as a Way of Life

With the rise in pet adoption and rescue culture, spending is expected to increase further. Services such as pet boarding, insurance, and online consultations are gaining momentum among modern pet owners. Interestingly, nearly 80% of petcare spending is driven by healthcare, grooming, and food:

- Healthcare: Annual spending averages ?14,000, mostly on services like vet visits.

- Grooming: Grooming services contribute to 25% of total service-related expenses.

- Food: Packaged pet food now accounts for 16% of product spending, becoming increasingly popular with recommendations from vets and for the convenience it offers.

Packaged food demand is rising in parallel with online food delivery trends, much like how families order meals via platforms like Zomato.

This transition reflects a broader behavioral change—pets are no longer incidental members of the household; they are central to family routines.

Opportunities for Growth: A Market Set to Double

The Indian petcare market is projected to reach $7-7.5 billion by FY2028. Although online petcare sales currently represent only 6-8% of the market, this segment is expected to drive future growth as new players introduce innovative offerings. Categories like smart pet products, pet insurance, and educational tutorials for new pet parents are gaining traction.

Investors have recognized the immense potential of this sector, pouring nearly $180 million into new-age petcare companies, with $70 million raised in FY24 alone.

These funds are fueling expansion across services and product categories, helping businesses cater to the growing demand from pet-loving households.

A Shift That’s Here to Stay

Having witnessed this evolution first-hand, I can confidently say that pet parenting in India is not a passing trend—it’s becoming a way of life. Nuclear families are increasingly adopting pets as emotional companions, filling gaps left by distant family networks or busy schedules. Pets bring not just joy, but a sense of responsibility and purpose to these households.

As we move forward, the petcare industry will need to adapt and innovate to keep pace with the growing expectations of pawrents. With healthcare, grooming, and food services becoming essential, businesses that prioritize convenience, quality, and emotional connection will thrive.

It’s heartening to see this transformation unfold—from pets being kept as animals to becoming cherished members of the family. And just as we’ve seen with my friend and his Labrador Bruno, each new pet welcomed into a home is not just a pet—it’s family.

Local Players Entering the Market

Recognizing the potential of the petcare market, local companies are now stepping in.

Avanti Feeds, leveraging decades of experience in animal feeds and in partnership with Thai Union, made its foray into the pet food segment in 2024 with an initial investment of ?27 crore.

This is an exciting development, as domestic players are now positioned to compete in a market long dominated by global brands such as Pedigree, Royal Canine etc.

Conclusion:

India’s petcare market reflects the deepening emotional connection between people and their pets, with spending patterns evolving alongside these bonds. With a projected market size of $7-7.5 billion by FY2028, the industry holds immense potential for companies and investors alike. The shift from pet owners to pawrents is not just reshaping households but also driving a booming industry—and this is only the beginning.

So the next time you see someone carrying a pet in their arms, know that you are not just looking at an owner, but at a pawrent—a person who sees their pet as an inseparable part of their family.

Would love to hear your thoughts! How do you think the Indian petcare market will evolve in the coming years? Let’s connect and discuss further. ??

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