Pet boom in Argentina moves US$3.2 billion, selling over 1 million tons of food annually

The business surrounding pets in Argentina has surged in recent years, now generating an impressive US$3.2 billion annually and accounting for half a percentage point of the country's GDP. This booming sector sells over one million tons of pet food each year and has reached 80% of households nationwide.

Data from Kantar Insights reveals a significant increase in pet ownership, with the presence of pets in homes rising from 73% in 2017 to 80% in 2023. Currently, eight out of every ten families share their lives with at least one animal. Triplethree International estimates there are over 19 million dogs and cats in Argentina, nearly half the country's human population.

Dogs are present in 80% of pet-owning households, while cats are found in 53%. Cat adoption has grown steadily since 2017, partly driven by urban lifestyle changes and smaller living spaces. Adoption is the primary way pets enter homes, accounting for 63% of cases, while purchases have decreased to 8%.

Feeding this vast pet population requires more than 1.05 million tons of food annually. Argentina, along with Brazil, leads regional spending on pets, with an average annual expenditure of US$428 per animal, 22% above the global average. Daily spending includes balanced food for 87% of owners, frequent purchases of vaccines for 68%, and flea and tick treatments for 57%. Additionally, 20% of owners invest in more specialized items like clothing, toys, and grooming services.

Businesses are actively responding to this demand. The "Mascotear" festival, featuring activities, games, and professional consultations, is a commercial success born from this phenomenon. Alican, a pet food company from Córdoba, plans a $30 million investment to triple production and increase staff by 50%, aiming to launch plant-based options, treats, and wet food, with aspirations to export to the U.S. and Europe. In San Jerónimo Norte, the Guillermo Cooperativa is also expanding its offerings.