Paw-sper economy: From kibble to birthday cakes - India's pets are living large
The Indian pet-care industry is experiencing rapid growth as pets are increasingly viewed as family members rather than just companions. This shift is driving significant consumer spending across sectors like premium nutrition, healthcare, and luxury accessories.
Why it matters
The expansion of the pet economy reflects broader socio-economic changes in India, including urbanization and rising disposable income.
India's relationship with pets is undergoing a profound transformation. Once viewed primarily as companions or watchdogs, pets today are increasingly regarded as family members, with owners embracing the identity of "pet parents."This emotional shift is reshaping consumer spending, giving rise to a fast-growing industry that stretches far beyond pet food. From premium nutrition and advanced healthcare to insurance, grooming, boarding, technology and luxury accessories, spending on pets has become a significant part of household budgets, creating a multi-billion-rupee business opportunity.The Covid-19 pandemic further strengthened the human-animal bond, with many households bringing home pets during lockdowns.India's pet-care industry, valued at Rs 30,434 crore ($3.6 billion) in 2024, is projected to grow nearly sevenfold to Rs 2.1 lakh crore ($24.8 billion) by 2032, driven by rising pet ownership, urbanisation and greater spending on companion animal health and wellness, as per IBEF data.India's expanding pet universe: Beyond canines and felines While dogs and…
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