Frozen Pet Food Market Size, Growth, and Trends 2025 to 2035

Frozen Pet Food Market Size 2025 to 2035

The global frozen pet food market size was valued at USD 16.22 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow steadily from USD 17.08 billion in 2026 to reach nearly USD 27.19 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period from 2026 to 2035. Significant growth of the frozen pet food is driven by increasing pet ownership, rising focus on pet health and nutrition, and increasing consumer preference for premium and preservative-free products. 

Key Highlights

• By region, North America dominated the global frozen pet food market market with 38% largest share in 2025.
• By region, Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2026 to 2035.
• By pet type, the dog segment held the largest market share in 2025. 
• By pet type, the cat segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR between 2026 and 2035.
• By product type, the frozen raw food segment contributed the biggest market share in 2025.
• By product type, the frozen cooked food segment is expanding at the fastest CAGR between 2026 and 2035. 
• By retail channels, the pet specialty stores segment dominated the market in 2025. 
• By retail channels, online retailers’ segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the projected period. 
• By flavor, the chicken segment held the major market share in 2025. 
• By flavor, the fish segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR between 2026 and 2035.
• By packaging type, the pouches segment contributed the biggest market share in 2025. 
• By packaging type, the tubs segment is expanding at the fastest CAGR between 2026 and 2035.

Frozen Pet Food Industry Coverage

What is Frozen Pet Food? 

Frozen pet food diets provide the nutrition of freshly made foods with the convenience of thaw-and-serve preparation. They are ideal for pet parents seeking easy-to-feed and store options. Freezing preserves nutrients without preservatives, and some products can last a year or more in the freezer. Typically, minimally processed, frozen pet foods maintain their nutritional value and reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.

Frozen Pet Food Market Trends

• Industry Growth Overview: The market is undergoing significant growth, propelled by an increase in pet ownership, evolving consumer preferences towards premium and natural diets, and heightened awareness of pet health and wellness. There exist emerging opportunities in the development of innovative formulations, including grain-free, organic, and functional frozen foods that cater to specific health concerns. Furthermore, the expansion of distribution channels, such as online retail, specialty pet stores, and direct-to-consumer models, is extending market reach.
• Sustainability Trends: The future trajectory of pet food is being influenced by innovations and trends that emphasize nutrition alongside sustainability. Certain brands are incorporating upcycled ingredients, nutritious by-products that would otherwise be discarded, thereby promoting sustainability and minimizing food waste. Concurrently, sustainable packaging is transforming the pet food industry, as brands seek solutions that minimize waste and foster long-term growth. By opting for recyclable materials, companies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance consumer trust.
• Startup Ecosystem: The ecosystem of frozen pet food startups is thriving, motivated by the humanization of pets and a demand for natural food options. From an entrepreneurial standpoint, the pet food sector presents promising opportunities, offering a diverse array of products, including gourmet meals, breed-specific foods, and dietary supplements. PawCo, established in 2022, debuted by offering a variety of fresh-frozen meals made with GreenMeat. According to reports from Axios, PawCo intended to initiate Series A funding within the coming year, following projected revenue of $1 million by the conclusion of 2023.

Key Technological Shift in the Frozen Pet Food Market 

Technological advancements are also influencing the market. Innovations in freezing techniques, packaging solutions that enhance shelf life, and improved supply chain logistics are enabling companies to deliver high-quality raw diets more efficiently. Moreover, the introduction of novel protein sources and tailored formulations is allowing manufacturers to address specific dietary requirements, thereby boosting consumer interest. The integration of artificial intelligence in pet food production represents not merely a technological enhancement, but a strategic transition towards a more efficient, sustainable, and competitive future. AI-driven software can optimize pet food recipes based on animal nutritional requirements, manage inventory through demand forecasting, and streamline ingredient procurement and production processes.

Trade Analysis of the Frozen Pet Food Market: Export and Import Statistics 

• Globally, a major portion of pet foods is imported from the United States, Thailand, and Vietnam. The leading importers of pet foods include India, the United States, and Chile, with India at the forefront having recorded 63,659 shipments, followed by the United States with 43,739 shipments, and Chile, which ranks third with 8,980 shipments.
• Regarding export, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam are the leading exporters of pet food, with Thailand leading globally, having shipped 52,118 units, followed by the United States with 44,820 shipments, and Vietnam with 22,839 shipments.

Value Chain Analysis of Frozen Pet Food Market

Raw Material Procurement

• Raw material procurement for frozen pet food includes a systematic process of sourcing high-quality, often human-grade, animal and plant-based ingredients while adhering to strict safety and quality standards.
• Key players: Allana Pet Solutions, Balkrishna Agro

Processing of Frozen Pet Food

• Processing of the frozen pet food includes methods like mixing, blending, grinding, extrusion, flash-freezing them rapidly, often with liquid nitrogen/CO2using technologies like IQF to lock in nutrients. 
• Key players: Stella & Chewy's, LLC, Primal Pet Group, Inc, Freshpet, Inc.

Packaging of Frozen Pet Food 

• Frozen pet food packaging focuses on durable, barrier materials like multi-layer plastics like PE, PP or aluminum laminates, commonly in stand-up pouches or bags, often with zippers for resealability, to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
• Key players: Amcor, Mondi, Berry Global, Huhtamaki, and Sonoco

Frozen Pet Food Market Regional Insights 

Why did the North America Region Dominate the Frozen Pet Food Market in 2025?

North America dominated the market in 2025. In North America, the frozen pet food market represents a burgeoning sector that has attracted considerable interest due to a rising demand for premium, healthy, and natural products. This market is expanding rapidly, driven by growing awareness among pet owners of the importance of nutrition and health for their pets. The range of products available within the market includes raw, minimally processed, and organic options, which align with consumers' increasing concerns regarding their pets well-being. These offerings resonate with prevailing trends favoring clean-label and natural ingredients.

The North America frozen pet food market size was calculated at USD 6.16 billion in 2025 with projections indicating a rise from USD 6.49 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 10.33 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 5.3% throughout the forecast period from 2026 to 2035.

United States Frozen Pet Food Market Analysis 

The United States frozen pet food Market has emerged as a vital segment of the broader pet food industry, fueled by escalating consumer demand for high-quality, nutritious, and convenient nutrition options for pets. The simplicity of serving frozen foods, combined with their ability to maintain freshness without the need for artificial preservatives, is particularly appealing to busy pet owners seeking high-quality nutrition with minimal inconvenience. NielsenIQ data indicates a growth rate of 13.4%, representing an increase of US$208 million for refrigerated and frozen dog food in the United States, as reported by Thaís Matos, senior business reporter for GlobalPets.

Asia Pacific: The Fastest Growing Region in the Frozen Pet Food Market 

The frozen pet food market in the Asia Pacific is experiencing fastest growth, primarily driven by an increase in pet ownership and the ongoing humanization of pets. As urbanization progresses and more individuals form nuclear families or live independently, pets are increasingly regarded as companions and integral members of the household. This shift in perception has resulted in higher emotional investments in pets and a greater willingness to allocate resources towards their care, particularly in relation to high-quality food that satisfies their health and nutritional requirements.

India's Frozen Pet Food Market Growth 

The Indian market is expanding rapidly, propelled by rising pet ownership, increasing disposable income, and a transformation in attitudes towards pet care and nutrition. Urbanization and evolving lifestyles have prompted more families and young professionals to adopt pets, especially within metropolitan regions such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. The number of pets in Indian households has surged from 26 million in 2019 to an estimated 32 million by 2024. The increasing number of pets is growing the frozen pet food market. 

• For instance, on May 26, 2025, Nestlé announced the acquisition of a minority stake in Drools Pet Food Private Limited, an Indian pet food brand. According to Nestlé, Drools will maintain operational independence following this investment. (Source: Nestle)

Europe the Notable Growing Region in the Frozen Pet Food Market

In Europe, the frozen pet food market is exhibiting notable growth as pet humanization continues to significantly influence consumer purchasing behavior. Pet owners are placing increased emphasis on health and nutrition. The rise of private labels and acquisitions by established companies is notably driving growth in this sector. Retailers are seizing opportunities created by the rising demand for fresh and chilled meals by introducing their own frozen pet food lines, thereby enhancing accessibility and affordability. Key industry players are expanding manufacturing facilities, launching new raw and grain-free frozen product lines, and investing in sustainable packaging to address the concerns of environmentally-conscious consumers in Europe.

• In October 2025, humbl pet food launched recently, spearheaded by founder and CEO Avrum Elmakis, an experienced entrepreneur recognized for establishing and successfully scaling the natural dog treat company TDBBS. humbl's initial offerings consist of five frozen fresh recipes made with EU-grade ingredients, emphasizing a commitment to simplicity and quality. (Source: KO Law firm)

UK Frozen Pet Food Market Study

The frozen pet food sector in the United Kingdom is on the verge of significant transformation, influenced by economic shifts, technological advancements, and an increasingly stringent regulatory environment. As consumer demand for premium, health-oriented pet nutrition escalates, import-export dynamics are becoming increasingly shaped by strategic procurement patterns and manufacturing transformations. The UK pet food industry is witnessing a robust shift towards high-quality, nutrition-focused offerings, driven by pet owners who are becoming more concerned about the health and longevity of their animals.

The Expanding Middle East and Africa Frozen Pet Food Market

In the Middle East and Africa, the rising cost of pet ownership and pet food acquisition is a significant driver of the regional market. As pet owners invest more in various types of pet food, the growth of this market is further supported by the increasing number of pets. Major market drivers include the rising adoption of dogs and cats, as well as a growing emphasis on enhancing productivity and health.

Saudi Arabia Frozen Pet Food Market Analysis 

In Saudi Arabia, the frozen pet food market is exhibiting steady growth due to increased awareness among pet owners regarding the benefits of providing high-quality, nutritionally balanced meals for their dogs. Saudi Arabia predominantly imports its pet food from the United States, India, and Brazil. With a growing pet population and increasing disposable incomes, a rising number of pet owners are choosing premium frozen dog food options that offer convenience and health benefits. Key market players are focusing on product innovation and strategic marketing efforts to attract customers.

South America Frozen Pet Food Market Opportunity

Investment opportunities in the South American market are significant, driven by rising consumer demand for premium pet nutrition. Entering this market through strategic partnerships with local distributors can facilitate effective product penetration. Investment in advanced freezing and packaging technologies can enhance product freshness and safety, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Additionally, e-commerce platforms present substantial opportunities for direct-to-consumer sales, thereby expanding market reach beyond traditional retail channels. The increasing adoption rates of pets, particularly in urban areas, further support market expansion.

Brazil Frozen Pet Food Market Examination

The Brazil frozen pet food market is experiencing strong growth, driven by rising pet humanization and increasing demand for premium, natural, and nutritionally balanced diets. More Brazilian pet owners especially dog owners are shifting toward frozen formats due to their perceived freshness, minimal processing, and alignment with raw or natural feeding trends. Innovation in grain-free, organic, and species-specific frozen formulations, along with the expansion of e-commerce channels, is further boosting adoption.

Frozen Pet Food Market Segmental Insights 

Pet Type Insights 

Why did the Dog Segment Dominate the Frozen Pet Food Market in 2025?

The dog segment led the frozen pet food market in 2025 because of the high worldwide dog ownership rates and increased expenditure per dog in terms of food and nutrition. Dog owners are mainly looking for frozen pet foods that provide specific health benefits, like enhancing joint health or offering a balanced food for puppies. This has led to a proliferation of personalized frozen dog food items that cater to various breeds, sizes, and life stages, ensuring that this segment remains dominant.

The Cat Segment is Observed to Grow at the Fastest Rate During the Forecast Period. 

The growth of the cat segment is projected to the increasing ownership of cats. Furthermore, in many nations, cats are considered a symbol of luck and fortune, mainly in Europe, which is the market share. In addition, cats need less space to live than dogs and require less living space compared to dogs and can stay alone at home for a longer time without human oversight. Between MRI-Simmons’ Spring 2021 and Spring 2025 survey reveals, the number of cat-owning households increased, mainly among Boomers, Gen X, and older seniors.

Product Type Insights 

Which Product Type Segment Dominated the Frozen Pet Food Market in 2025?

The frozen raw food segment held the dominating share of the market in 2025. The growth of the segment attributed due to it provide more biologically appropriate for pet digestive systems. This trend is supported by growing health consciousness, aversion to fillers, and the perception of raw as the most nourishing option, with brands providing convenient patties and nuggets that fulfil the popular BARF Biologically Appropriate Raw Food philosophy.  

The Frozen Cooked Food Segment is Expected to Grow at a Fastest Rate During the Predicted Timeframe. 

Pet owners who want to feed their pets with fresh, whole-food ingredients but don't want to have the safety risk that comes with handling raw meat prefer the cooked food. Mildly cooked frozen food has increased as an alternative to raw frozen food, offering consumers a convenient source of nutrition. Frozen cooked meals provide a convenient, ready-to-serve solution for busy owners.

Retail Channel Insights 

What Made the Specialty Stores Segment Dominant in the Frozen Pet Food Market in 2025?

The pet specialty stores segment dominated the market with the largest share in 2025. Specialty pet stores are the preferred option for premium, high-quality, and specialized pet food items, offering personalized services and expert advice. Customers are increasingly choosing transparency in ingredients and nutritional information, which specialty retailers presumably provide. In addition, these stores frequently engage knowledgeable staff who can give personalized advice and recommendations, improving the buying experience for pet owners.

The Online Retailers Segment is Expected to Grow at the Fastest Rate in the Market During the Forecast Period. 

The increasing presence of D2C and personalized frozen pet food brands encourages the shift toward online shopping. As customers turn toward organic, premium, grain-free, and functional food, they shift to e-commerce platforms for wider product availability than local retail stores can offer. The convenience of fast delivery, subscriptions, and smooth digital shopping are some of the factors that are fostering the market growth. 

Flavor Insights 

Which Flavor Segment Dominated the Frozen Pet Food Market in 2025?

The chicken segment dominated the market in 2025, due to wide availability, easy digestibility, high protein content, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for pets with sensitive stomachs. Chicken-based frozen foods are preferred for their balanced protein-fat ratio, palatability, and compatibility with mixed cooked or raw feeding plans. Most dogs and cats find chicken highly appealing, making it a go-to protein that ensures pets eat their meals.

The Fish Segment is Observed to Grow at the Fastest Rate During the Forecast Period. 

Growing demand for fish-based frozen pet food arises from increasing omega-3 awareness, the premiumization trend that links pet nutrition to human-grade standards, and advanced marine-protein processing technologies.  Fish-based frozen pet food addresses the increasing customer demand for natural and functional ingredients, aligning with the pet humanization trend in the pet food sector. 

Packaging Type Insights 

Which Packaging Segment Held the Largest Share of the Frozen Pet Food Market in 2025?

The pouches segment led the market in 2025. Pouches provide convenient opening, resealability, and portion control, making them ideal for varying meal sizes. These pouches may incorporate specialized film layers to safeguard internal contents against punctures, moisture, contamination, exposure to sunlight, and other hazards. Furthermore, pouches are lightweight, facilitate ease of transport, present an attractive appearance on retail shelves, and are straightforward to reseal and store; additionally, pouch nozzles enhance usability.

The Tubs Segment is Experiencing the Rapid Growth During the Forecast Period.

As it aligns effectively with pet owners’ demands for convenience, portion control, freshness, and portability. This trend is particularly notable in light of the rising popularity of frozen pet food and e-commerce, which offers an improved user experience through ease of opening and resealing, as well as enhanced protection for premium raw or fresh foods compared to traditional bags or chubs. This shift corresponds with the growing humanization of pets and a heightened interest in healthy, natural options.

Recent Developments in the Frozen Pet Food Market

Tribal Pet Foods

• Launch: In December 2025, the British pet food brand Tribal Pet Foods expanded into the cat food sector with the introduction of its latest line, specifically designed for cats with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities. This fresh food would be gently steamed to preserve nutritional value. (Source: Pet Food Processing)

Maev 

• Launch: In February 2025, Maev, recognized as the fastest-growing pet brand in the United States, announced its launch on Chewy, Inc., a reputable platform for pet parents and partners. This development further establishes Maev's leadership in the raw food market, offering a comprehensive range of frozen raw dog food, including its Beef, Chicken, and Puppy formulas. (Source: PR Newswire)

Top Key Companies in the Frozen Pet Food Market 

• Nestlé Purina PetCare remains a dominant entity in the overall pet food sector, leading with substantial sales across dry, wet, and treat categories. This success is primarily attributed to notable brands such as Pro Plan and ONE, although their emphasis has traditionally been on established formats, with particular attention to significant frozen pet food lines.
• Mars Petcare ranks among the top competitors in the frozen pet food market, holding a prominent position as one of the world’s largest pet food manufacturers. The company owns well-known brands such as Royal Canin, Pedigree, Whiskas, and Cesar, thereby serving a substantial portion of the global pet population.
• Carnivore Meat Company LLC (CMC) stands out as a key player in the expanding market, recognized for its premium, minimally processed raw foods and treats for dogs and cats. The company is significantly increasing its capacity to meet growing demand, with brands such as Vital Essentials under its umbrella.
• Primal Pet Foods is acknowledged as a significant leader in the frozen raw pet food sector, known for delivering convenient, minimally processed whole-food diets, including patties and scoops, crafted from high-quality meats and organic produce, with a strong emphasis on gut health and high digestibility.

Other Key Players in the Market 

• Steve's Real Food
• Stella and Chewy's LLC
• Kiezebrink
• PetSmart LLC
• Northwest Naturals
• Raw Paws Pet Food
• Bravo
• Tucker's

Segment Covered in the Report

By Pet Type 

• Dogs
• Cats
• Fish
• Birds
• Small animals (e.g., rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs)

By Product Type 

• Frozen raw food
• Frozen cooked food
• Frozen treats

By Retail Channels

• Pet specialty stores
• Mass merchandisers
• Grocery stores
• Online retailers
• Veterinarians

By Flavor 

• Chicken
• Beef
• Fish
• Lamb
• Duck
• Rabbit
• Venison

By Packaging Type 

• Pouches
• Tubs
• Bags
• Boxes

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• MEA
• Latin America