The pet industry in Malaysia

Rising pet ownership, regional trade partnerships, and growing demand for premium and sustainable products are reshaping Malaysia’s pet industry. 

While the sector faces short-term challenges, it is becoming increasingly diverse and internationally connected.

Popularity of pets in Malaysia

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

Cats are the most popular pets in Malaysia, accounting for 55.3% of the total pet population in 2022, according to Mordor Intelligence. In 2020, the cat population was 147.7% higher than that of dogs, reflecting their strong dominance in the country.

This popularity is driven by widespread care for street cats, lower ownership costs, and higher adoption rates. Between 2019 and 2022, the cat population grew by 32.2% and is expected to reach 1.3 million by 2025, supported by increasing pet ownership, greater awareness of pet-related benefits, and the growing appeal of cat cafés.

Fish and birds also represent significant portions of the pet population, accounting for 15% and 6%, respectively.

Growth of the local industry

The Malaysian Statistics Department’s Economic Census 2023 shows the local pet care sector grew by 25% in 2022. That year:

• The pet care service sector generated MYR38.5 million ($8.8M/€7.9M)
• The veterinary industry contributed MYR219.7 million ($50.3M/€45.5M)
• Sales of pets reached an estimated MYR699.4 million ($160.1M/€144.8M)

The states of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur were the top contributors to market growth.

According to Mordor Intelligence, the Malaysian pet food market is estimated to be worth $340.3 million (€308M) in 2025 and is projected to grow to $474.5 million (€429M) by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.87% over the forecast period. Pet nutraceuticals and supplements are currently the fastest-growing product category.

International trade and regional influences

Regional and global trade dynamics increasingly influence Malaysia’s pet industry. Both Turkish and Taiwanese producers are expanding in the market:

• In 2023, Turkey exported $122 million worth of pet food to Malaysia, ranking it among its top export destinations.
• Taiwanese pet food exports to Malaysia have surged by 377% over the past six years, reflecting the country’s growing demand for quality pet products.

Malaysia also stands to benefit from the UK’s entry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Starting December 2024, British pet food exports to Malaysia and other CPTPP member states will become tariff-free. This is expected to boost trade flows, market access, and diversify supply chains within the region.

Malaysian pet retail landscape

The Malaysian pet industry is seeing strong growth in both brick-and-mortar and online retail. Platforms like Carousell support the rapid expansion of e-commerce, while retailers such as Pet Lovers Centre continue to grow their physical presence and digital offerings.

This retail expansion reflects the rising number of nutrition-conscious and engaged pet owners, particularly those caring for cats and dogs.

Demand for services & housing

Increased pet ownership is driving up demand for services such as diverse pet food options, veterinary care, pet sitting and walking, grooming, and boarding.

However, the veterinary sector is under strain. According to Dr. Salehatul Khuzaimah Mohamad Ali, there is currently only 1 veterinarian for every 14,311 patients, despite more veterinary institutes opening.

The demand for pet-friendly housing is also rising. Malaysian property agents have reported a 50% increase in inquiries for such homes.

According to Chan Ai Cheng, former President of the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents, this trend is influencing urban planning. In the Greater Kuala Lumpur area alone, five new pet-friendly residential projects were launched in May 2025, incorporating pet-friendly cafés, malls, parks, veterinary clinics, and high-rise apartments.

Malaysia pet market trends

Pet insurance shows untapped potential
While pet insurance is still in its infancy in Malaysia, it shows strong potential. Digital insurer Igloo, active in Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries, recently raised $36 million (€32.9M) to expand its offerings.

With rising pet ownership and limited access to veterinary care, affordable and easy-to-understand insurance options tailored to local needs could see rapid adoption.

Insect protein gains traction
Malaysia is emerging as a leader in the sustainable pet food sector. Veolia Bioconversion Malaysia, one of Asia’s largest insect protein producers, recently secured approval to export insect meal and oil to the European Union.

As demand grows worldwide for sustainable and nutritious pet food, Malaysia is well-positioned to benefit, thanks to increasing recognition of insect protein’s advantages and ongoing investment in production and sustainability.

This development reflects a global shift toward sustainable, protein-rich pet food ingredients. Malaysia is well-positioned to benefit from rising interest in eco-friendly alternatives, backed by growing investment in innovation and production capacity.