In brief
As pet ownership rises among urban Indians, the pet care sector is set to double its value by 2028, transforming the way pets are treated in society and prompting increased spending on pet services and products.
Neha Bapna has a deep affection for her four-year-old Shih Tzu, Muffin, whom she cherishes as her own child. Traveling across India by train, Muffin enjoys the comfort of first-class seating. Bapna invests in expensive hypoallergenic food for him, which can cost double that of regular dog food. "I want him to be happy and healthy; he's my baby," says the Mumbai entrepreneur.Pet pampering was once a privilege of the ultra-rich, but now, a broader segment of urban Indian society, including affluent and middle-class families like Bapna's, are spending considerably more on their 'fur babies.' This trend has catalyzed a booming pet care industry that has nearly doubled in value in recent years. Ankur Bisen, a senior partner at Technopak, points out that the pandemic prompted many individuals to seek companionship during lockdowns, leading to increased pet ownership among diverse demographics, including young professionals and childless couples.In 2019, there were an estimated 26 million pets in Indian households; this number jumped to 32 million by 2024, according to a Redseer report. With shifting social norms, such as delayed marriages and smaller family sizes, many urban Indians are treating pets with the same love and care previously reserved for children. Living in Delhi, Nikhil Bhushan and Lakshna Gulati have two rescue pets—a dog named Mowgli and a cat named Marmalade—and appreciate the joy of parenthood without the pressures of traditional child-rearing. "After rescuing our pets, our home truly feels complete," Bhushan says, expressing that spoiling their pets brings them happiness. In 2024, expenditures on pet products and services in India reached approximately $3.6 billion, up from $1.6 billion in 2019, showcasing enormous growth driven by services like pet insurance and specialized veterinary care. Pankaj Poddar, CEO of pet care company Zigly, notes the evolution of pet care from basic services to premium offerings—parents may spend 10% of their income on their pets, seeking the best possible options.Bapna spends between 25,000 to 40,000 rupees monthly on Muffin, often choosing pet-friendly accommodations while traveling. No matter the cost, she makes no compromises. Growth in the industry adversely affects sales for companies like Zigly, which has recently seen a 7%-10% month-over-month increase in revenue.Competitive businesses, such as The Pet Point, cater to a middle-class clientele seeking value over luxury, offering grooming services at more affordable prices. Additionally, the emergence of quick commerce platforms facilitates rapid delivery of pet products, boosting sales further. Expectations for India's pet care sector remain optimistic, with forecasts indicating potential growth to $7 billion by 2028. However, economic disparities and a lack of pet-friendly venues may hinder progress. Bhushan and Gulati face challenges when attempting to dine with Mowgli, as dining establishments often lack pet accommodation. Despite the obstacles, Bapna holds a hopeful perspective, noting an increase in pet-friendly events and venues since she first acquired Muffin. "It gives me hope when I see the growing acceptance of pets in society," she states with a smile. Stay tuned for more updates on India's evolving pet care culture and its impact on consumers.
