Country report: rising pet ownership diversifies Malaysian market

The increasing popularity of pets in Malaysia is leading to a surge in the diversification of the pet market and creating short-term challenges for the industry. GlobalPETS analyses the latest developments.

Growth of the local industry

Mordor Intelligence reports that the Malaysian pet food industry was valued at $317.3 million (€287M) in 2024 and is projected to reach $443 million (€400M) by 2029. Pet nutraceuticals and supplements are the fastest-growing product category.

The Malaysian Statistics Department’s Economic Census 2023 shows the local pet care sector grew by 25% in 2022, with the pet care service sector generating MYR38.5 million ($8.8M/€7.9M) and the veterinary industry MYR219.7 million ($50.3M/€45.5M).

Sales of pets contributed an estimated MYR699.4 million ($160.1M/€144.8M), with Selangor and Kuala Lumpur being the top contributors to growth.

Demand for services

Increased pet ownership is boosting demand for various pet care services, including diverse pet food options, veterinary care, pet sitting, walking, grooming and boarding.

However, there is growing pressure on the veterinary sector. Dr. Salehatul Khuzaimah Mohamad Ali highlighted a shortage of veterinarians, with only 1 for every 14,311 patients despite more veterinary institutes opening.

Pet-friendly housing

According to local media, Malaysian property agents have reported a surge in demand for pet-friendly housing projects.

Chan Ai Cheng, former President of the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents, noted a 50% increase in inquiries for pet-friendly properties.

The Greater Kuala Lumpur area is responding with new residences, including pet-friendly cafés, malls, parks, veterinary clinics and high-rise apartments. In May, 5 new pet-friendly residential projects emerged in the area.

Popularity of pets

According to Standard Insights’ Consumer Report Malaysia 2023, 51.1% of Malaysians own pets, and 26.4% of these owners have multiple pets. Of the 48.9% of respondents without pets, 26.2% expressed interest in owning one.

Cats are the most popular (77.7%), followed by dogs (14.9%) and tropical fish (13.2%). Other pets include rabbits, hamsters, goldfish, birds and reptiles.