LATAM Pet Care Trends 2024: Insights for Businesses and Brands

The pet care industry in Latin America (LATAM) is thriving, with a market size valued at approximately $24 billion in 2023, according to Statista. Recent findings from the TGM Global Pet Care Survey 2024 further highlight key trends that are shaping this dynamic market. LATAM pet owners are increasingly focused on health, nutrition, and overall well-being, driving demand for more tailored products and services. As awareness continues to grow, the industry is evolving to meet the diverse needs of pets and their owners across the region, offering more personalized solutions than ever before.

In Latin America, medium-sized dogs have emerged as the most popular choice among pet owners. Breeds like Poodles, Mestizos (mixed-breed dogs), and Labrador Retrievers dominate the scene, reflecting the region’s lifestyle and cultural preferences. Medium-sized breeds strike an ideal balance between space requirements and companionship, making them perfect for both urban and suburban living environments. This trend highlights a unique opportunity for brands to tailor their products—such as food portions, bedding, and accessories—specifically to the needs of medium-sized dogs. Brands can also explore marketing campaigns that emphasize the versatility and suitability of their offerings for urban pet owners who face space constraints but still seek active and loyal companions.

Hygiene is becoming a top priority for LATAM pet owners, with a significant uptick in the use of grooming services and the purchase of hygiene-related products like litter boxes. Currently, 32% of pet owners regularly use professional grooming services, while 34% buy cat litter and litter boxes, underscoring the growing emphasis on cleanliness. This shift suggests an increasing demand for hygiene products and services, creating an opportunity for brands to innovate. Companies can introduce eco-friendly, easy-to-use grooming products, biodegradable litter, or subscription-based grooming kits that cater to busy pet owners. Brands could also focus on offering educational content that emphasizes the connection between good hygiene and overall pet health and wellness.

Veterinarians are increasingly viewed as trusted sources for pet care advice, particularly when it comes to nutrition. The TGM Global Pet Care Survey 2024 shows that 14% of pet owners in LATAM rank veterinarian recommendations among the top three factors influencing their pet food purchases. This underscores a golden opportunity for pet food brands to collaborate more closely with veterinarians to develop specialized, vet-approved food products. Brands could consider partnerships with veterinary clinics to co-brand premium pet food lines or create educational campaigns about nutrition. This approach not only builds trust but also helps brands differentiate themselves in a competitive market by focusing on healthier, more personalized food options for pets.

Despite the global rise in e-commerce, 50% of LATAM pet owners still prefer to purchase pet food and supplies from supermarkets. The tactile experience of physically inspecting products, especially ingredients, drives this preference for traditional retail channels. For brands, this signals the importance of maintaining a strong presence in physical stores while offering transparency and trust in their product packaging. Brands can leverage this insight by creating visually appealing, informative packaging that highlights key product features like natural ingredients, nutritional benefits, or sustainability. Additionally, in-store promotions, samples to bring home, and partnerships with supermarkets can help build stronger relationships with consumers who prioritize the tactile shopping experience.

Pet anxiety has become the most prevalent medical condition affecting pets in LATAM, particularly among younger pet owners who lead busy lifestyles and are often away from home for long periods. Many are turning to services like at-home feeding (8%) and pet sitting or walking (7%) to help alleviate their pets' stress. This growing concern provides an opportunity for brands to introduce specialized products such as calming treats, anxiety-reducing toys, or pet monitoring devices that allow owners to keep track of their pets while they’re away. Brands could also explore partnerships with professional pet services, offering packages that combine products and services to better meet the needs of anxious pets and their owners.