Veterinary Eye Care Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Animal Type (Canine, Feline), By Type, By Route of Administration, By Indication, By Sales Channel, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Veterinary Eye Care Market Size & Trends

The global veterinary eye care market size was estimated at USD 4.50 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.45% from 2024 to 2030. The market is primarily driven by factors like the rise in ophthalmic expression of veterinary disorders, advancements in technologies for veterinary ophthalmic diseases, and growing pet insurance coverage for ophthalmic surgeries. As a result of the ever-growing animal population, the need for professional management of the common eye conditions in these animals is rising. Eye-lid abnormalities, uveitis, conjunctivitis, corneal as well as retinal complications, cataracts, etc. are some of the common ophthalmic complications among these animals. Veterinary eye care is a vital component of veterinary medicine, with an emphasis on the identification, management, and avoidance of ocular disorders and trauma in a variety of animal species.

Similar to humans, animals can also develop a variety of eye conditions that call for specialized care from veterinarians. The rising prevalence of ailments like conjunctivitis to more complicated diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are further providing a growth platform to this market. Systemic diseases commonly affect the eye and related structures in cats as well. Scabies, ringworm, and immune-mediated skin disorders have all been linked to inflammation of the eyelids. The common pathogens are responsible for infectious diseases in cats. Examples include Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, and Feline Herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1). These infections commonly manifest as acute and recurrent conjunctivitis. Proliferative keratoconjunctivitis, ulcerative and stromal keratitis, and other conditions are linked to FHV-1. Anterior and posterior uveitis, chronic uveitis, retinal detachment, and secondary glaucoma are common presentations of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), toxoplasmosis, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline leukemia virus.

In older cats, acute vision loss with intraocular bleeding and retinal detachment is frequently linked to hyperthyroidism or chronic renal failure and may be secondary to systemic hypertension. On the other hand, conjunctivitis, anterior or posterior uveitis, leptospirosis, Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), equine influenza, strangles (Streptococcus equi), infection from Rhodococcus equi, and salmonellosis can all emerge in horses. Furthermore, in cattle, hydrocephalus and in-utero infection of calves with bovine viral diarrhea are related to microphthalmia, cataracts, retinal dysplasia, and retinal detachments. Lambs afflicted with the bluetongue virus in utero suffer from the same eye abnormalities. In swine, vitamin A deficiency results in microphthalmia; in calves, it causes blindness and optic nerve hypoplasia. In adult or growing cattle, night blindness, mydriasis, and total blindness are caused by a vitamin A deficiency.

Ocular nerve atrophy, retinal degeneration, and papilledema are examples of abnormalities seen under an ophthalmoscope. For animals suffering from night blindness alone, vitamin A supplements might assist them see once more. The broad spectrum of genetic, infectious, and systemic conditions that can harm an animal's eyes highlights how important veterinary eye care is. Comprehensive ophthalmic exams and specialized treatments are becoming progressively more in demand, from dogs suffering from metabolic diseases like diabetes and hypothyroidism to cats dealing with immune-mediated conditions and infectious diseases like FHV-1. The market is growing due to the potential for these conditions to cause blindness or severely disabling visual symptoms. As a result, there is a growing need for innovative diagnostic methods and therapeutic approaches, as well as for preventative and innovative treatments, which will boost overall market growth.

Demand for proper eye care is also increased since ophthalmic surgeries are being covered under the insurance. Depending on the particular policy and provider, pet insurance may or may not cover eye surgeries and associated expenses. Pet owners receive a sizable reimbursement for covered veterinary expenses from pet insurance. The most popular kind of pet insurance plan is an accident/illness plan, which covers most illnesses and injuries in pets, including cataracts. There is also wellness coverage, which pays for standard medical services. Pet owners typically pay between $2,000 and $3,000 for a cataract surgery. It will cost between $3,500 and $4,500 if both eyes are affected. At the most expensive end, expenses might amount to $5,000 or more. As a result, boosting the adoption of pet insurance will undoubtedly help offset these high costs and concurrently increase the number of cases of veterinary eye disorders being treated, thereby supporting market growth.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

Regional Expansion: Companies that offer veterinary eye care products are branching out into new areas to take advantage of developing markets and increase their clientele. Distributors can boost product accessibility and market penetration by forming partnerships and distribution networks in pet-friendly regions. This will propel the overall pet market growth

In March 2023, Boehringer Ingelheim partnered with GALVmed and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to raise awareness of animal disease prevention and treatments among smallholder farmers in six African countries. This initiative not only helps the company introduce its own product portfolio into the market, but also instills the importance of proper veterinary care in these regions

Product Substitutes: To offer unique alternatives to differentiate themselves from their competitors, manufacturers are innovating their product offerings, which lowers the possibility of substitution. This might involve creating innovative products, implementing innovative delivery techniques, or launching specialized equipment designed to address particular ocular conditions to maintain their market share and drive demand for their products

ENTOD Pharmaceuticals established "FUR," a division to offer pet eye and ear care medications, in January 2024. FUR by ENTOD offers a broad variety of veterinary eye and ear care products, including lubricating drops, anti-glaucoma drugs, allergy relief, antibiotics, and combos

Level of M&A Activities: The market is becoming more competitive as a result of M&A activities by key players. Businesses are strategically expanding their product portfolios, strengthening their R&D capabilities, and utilizing synergies to achieve economies of scale by acquiring or merging with complementary businesses. Key players' competitiveness is increased, innovation is encouraged, and market consolidation is accelerated by these actions

In September 2022, Jurox, which develops, produces, and sells a variety of veterinary medications for the treatment of livestock and companion animals, was fully acquired by Zoetis Inc. Headquartered in Australia, it also has regional offices in the US, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand

Degree of Innovation: To introduce innovative methods and products that address unmet needs in veterinary eye care, manufacturers are making significant investments in research and development. To improve treatment outcomes and raise the standard of care for animal patients, this includes the development of innovative surgical techniques, innovative drug delivery systems, and sophisticated diagnostic tools. The focus on innovation creates opportunities for market expansion by providing veterinarians with innovative products that enhance therapeutic efficacy and diagnostic precision

Impact of Regulations: Adherence to regulatory frameworks that guarantee the safety, effectiveness, and quality of products used in the treatment of ocular conditions in animals is crucial in shaping the market. Market access and product approval depend on adherence to laws governing veterinary pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biologics. More preclinical and clinical testing may be required due to stricter regulatory requirements, which would extend development times and raise costs for manufacturers

Type Insights

The treatment segment held the highest share of over 56.00% in 2023. Animals are susceptible to a wide range of ocular conditions, from common ones like conjunctivitis to more complicated ones like cataracts or glaucoma. Effective treatment options are therefore in high demand, to address these conditions and enhance the animals' quality of life. An article published in 2022 by DergiPark reports that 35.05% of the cats and 35.92% of the dogs that were examined had ocular pathology diagnosed.

Mixed breeds accounted for 29.8% of all cat breeds with ocular pathologies, while Golden Retrievers accounted for 82.3% of all dog breeds. Significant progress has been made in the field of veterinary ophthalmology concerning treatment modalities, surgical techniques, and medical devices. Veterinarians have access to a wider variety of treatment options, which enables them to manage ocular injuries and diseases more successfully.

Animal Type Insights

By animal type, the canine segment held the highest revenue share of over 35.58% in 2023. Numerous eye disorders, such as cataracts, glaucoma, corneal ulcers, and retinal diseases, are common in dogs. The need for veterinary eye care is driven by the prevalence of these conditions in dogs. In Jan 2022, a study published by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) through the VetCompass Programme focused on eye conditions in dogs.

It was revealed that one in 500 dogs (0.20%) overall in the UK suffer from cherry eye each year. Compared to crossbred dogs, purebred dogs were 1.4 times more likely to develop cherry eye. The dominance of the canine segment in the global market is partly due to the sheer number of dogs in need of eye care.

Route of Administration Insights

By route of administration, the topical segment held the highest market share in 2023. Comparatively speaking to oral and injectable medications, topical medications like eye drops and ointments are easier to put into practice. By administering these drugs at home, pet owners can lessen their animal's stress and cut down on the number of veterinary visits. Medication is applied topically with eye drops and ointments to ensure maximum effectiveness and minimal systemic side effects.

By ensuring that the active ingredients reach the site of action in the eye, this targeted approach maximizes therapeutic results while enabling precise dosing. Because of their versatility, topical medications can be used to treat a variety of ocular conditions, such as allergies, inflammation, infections, and dry eyes. Veterinarians frequently choose them for both acute and chronic ocular conditions on account of their wide range of applications.

Indication Insights

By indication, the conjunctivitis segment is expected to register the second-fastest CAGR from 2024 to 2030. Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye conditions in animals, affecting dogs, cats, and other domestic pets. The high prevalence of conjunctivitis leads to a steady demand for veterinary eye care products and treatments, driving consistent growth in this segment. Conjunctivitis can be caused by various factors, including allergies, infections, irritants, and underlying health conditions.

This diverse range of causes increases the likelihood of pets developing conjunctivitis, contributing to a sustained demand for treatments across different demographics and regions. A February 2023 study from BMC Research revealed that concurrent allergic conjunctivitis occurred in almost 60% of dogs with canine atopic dermatitis (AD). Conjunctival hyperemia, chemosis, ocular pruritus, epiphora, seromucoid to mucopurulent discharge, and keratitis were among the clinical symptoms in these dogs.

Sales Channel Insights

By distribution channel, the veterinary hospitals & clinics segment held the highest share of over 47.00% in 2023. Animal ocular conditions can be diagnosed and treated by staff members who have received specialized training in veterinary hospitals and clinics. They serve as the primary channel of distribution for eye care products since they are frequently the first choice when pet owners need veterinary care for problems relating to their eyes. Veterinary clinics and hospitals are easily reachable by pet owners in need of veterinary care, which makes them an efficient method of distribution for products related to eye care. Following a diagnosis or prescription from the veterinarian, pet owners can buy diagnostic equipment and treatment supplies straight from these establishments.

The E-commerce segment is expected to dominate the market in terms of CAGR over the forecast period. Pet owners can purchase veterinary eye care products from the comfort of their homes with the ease and accessibility provided by e-commerce platforms. This accessibility helps explain why buying pet-related products-including supplies for eye care-online is becoming increasingly common. A large range of veterinary eye care products, such as diagnostic instruments, drugs, supplements, and other treatment options, are available through e-commerce platforms.

Regional Insights

North America held the largest share of 38.23% in 2023. North America has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with a sizable percentage of households having one or more animals. North America dominates the market because of the region's large pet population, which increases demand for veterinary services, including eye care. The need for superior veterinary care, including specialized eye care services, is fueled by pet owners' strong emphasis on the health and wellness of their companion animals. As per the American Pet Products Association (APPA) survey from 2021 - 2022, 70% of the U.S. households own a pet.

Moreover, North America is home to numerous prominent manufacturers, including Reichert Inc., Zoetis Inc., Merck & Co. Inc., Baxter, and Dechra Pharmaceuticals. The region dominates the veterinary eye care industry in terms of product development, distribution, and market share owing in part to this concentration of important market players.

U.S. Veterinary Eye Care Market Trends

The U.S. veterinary eye care market held the largest share in 2023. The country boasts a large population of pets, including dogs, cats, and horses, leading to a robust market for veterinary eye care products. Moreover, technological advancements in veterinary ophthalmology, coupled with a strong focus on research and development, contribute to the continuous growth of the market in the U.S.

Europe Veterinary Eye Care Market Trends

The veterinary eye care market in Europe held the second-largest share in 2023. In Europe, the market is characterized by a diverse range of ocular conditions affecting various animal species. For example, cattle suffer from conditions, such as ocular squamous cell carcinoma, while dogs experience entropion or ectropion, leading to eyelid abnormalities. Cats develop conditions like feline herpesvirus-1-induced keratitis, and horses may suffer from equine recurrent uveitis. Europe benefits from advanced veterinary expertise, with leading specialists providing specialized care for animals with these and other ocular conditions. In addition, the world’s leading market players like Boehringer Ingelheim, Dechra Pharmaceuticals, Sandoz, Ceva Sante Animale, Alcon Laboratories, etc. operate their businesses from the region.

The Germany veterinary eye care market is flourishing for a number of reasons. Numerous animal species, such as horses, dogs, cats, and cattle, are prone to ocular diseases. While infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis is a common ailment in cattle, cataracts, and glaucoma are common conditions in dogs. Felines get conjunctivitis caused by the feline herpesvirus-1, and horses can get recurrent uveitis in their eyes. Germany's sophisticated veterinary infrastructure, which includes specialized ophthalmology clinics outfitted with innovative diagnostic and therapeutic options, benefits the market.

The veterinary eye care market in the UK is expanding steadily and is quite dynamic. While many animal species are affected by ocular diseases, dogs are particularly vulnerable to conditions like progressive retinal atrophy. The United Kingdom enjoys the benefit of innovative veterinary knowledge, with top ophthalmologists offering specialized care for animals. Institutions, such as the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), are also making great strides in comprehending the patterns of ocular diseases in animals to make sure that this research results in efficient diagnosis and treatment.

The France veterinary eye care market is characterized by rapid expansion and innovation. Ocular disorders occur frequently in many animal species. For example, dogs can develop cataracts and corneal ulcers. Uveitis is one of the conditions that cats may develop. France gains from a strong emphasis on veterinary research and development, which results in the creation of innovative ocular condition diagnostic tools and treatment modalities. Significant companies like Ceva Sante Animale, Virbac, etc. are present in the nation, which increases its market share.

Asia Pacific Veterinary Eye Care Market Trends

The veterinary eye care market in Asia Pacific, especially in China and India, is growing because of the region's high cattle and livestock population and heavy reliance on these animals for agriculture and livelihoods. Cattle and other livestock frequently suffer from ocular diseases, such as infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis, which can cause farmers to lose money. Ocular problems, ranging from infections to degenerative conditions, also affect dogs, cats, and horses.

The India veterinary eye care market will register the highest CAGR from 2024 to 20230. India has the highest livestock population, augmenting the need for proper diagnosis & treatment for them. According to the Press Information Bureau of India, in 2023, the country’s livestock population included 303.76 million bovines, increasing by over 13.36% from 2014-2015 to 2021-22. The bulk of livestock farming occurs in rural areas, where there is a particular need for readily available and reasonably priced veterinary eye care services. Using outreach campaigns, telemedicine projects, and mobile clinics, governments and organizations are attempting to enhance the accessibility of veterinary services in these areas. Enhancing the health and welfare of cattle and livestock populations through appropriate veterinary care penetration-including eye care-will eventually support agricultural sustainability and economic growth.

The veterinary eye care market in China held the largest share in 2023. According to GlobalPets, in 2021, dogs and cats from urban parts of China reached 112.3 million - 54.3 million dogs and 58 million cats - an 11.4% increase compared to 2020. The need for veterinary eye care services will rise in China due to the country's marked increase in the number of dogs and cats. The market in China will grow as a result of this spike in demand, which will raise sales of drugs, diagnostic equipment, and treatment services for ocular conditions in dogs and cats.

Key Veterinary Eye Care Company Insights

Some of the key players operating in the market include Reichert, Inc., Boehringer Ingelheim, Merck & Co., Inc., Zoetis Services LLC., Dechra Pharmaceuticals, Sandoz, Ceva Sante Animale, etc.

Accutome Inc., An-Vision GmbH, I-Med Animal Health, Jorgensen Laboratories, OptoMed, Neuronix, Occuity, etc. are some of the emerging market participants in the veterinary eye care market.

Market participants in the veterinary eye care market are taking part in a range of initiatives to improve the range of products they offer and increase their market share. These endeavors encompass strategic alliances for exclusive distribution rights, product portfolio diversification through acquisitions, and the launch of innovative products that utilize innovative technologies. Furthermore, businesses are concentrating on creating products that address particular demands in the veterinary eye care industry. Together, these initiatives support the development and expansion of the veterinary eye care industry and satisfy the changing needs of both veterinarians and pet owners.

Recent Developments

• Occuity and Indo Optical partnered in November 2023, granting Indo Optical exclusive distribution rights for Occuity's PM1 Pachymeter product in Spain and Portugal

• Zimeta (dipyrone injection) was acquired by Dechra from Elanco® Animal Health in July 2022. With the acquisition, Dechra's portfolio of equine products expanded into non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

• The Bausch & Lomb Corporation introduced Project Watson, a line of dog health products, to the U.S. market in October 2022. Using premium and naturally derived ingredients, the new product line is designed to help support dogs' eyes, ears, and general well-being (eye wash, eye wipes, etc.)

• Reichert Technologies introduced the Tono-Vera Vet Tonometer with ActiView Positioning System in February 2021. With just one measurement, this innovative new tonometer for the veterinary industry provides fast and accurate animal intraocular pressure (IOP). Rebound tonometer technology, used by Tono-Vera Vet, removes the need for topical anesthetics

Veterinary Eye Care Market Report Scope

Global Veterinary Eye Care Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the veterinary eye care market report based on type, animal type, route of administration, indication, sales channel, and region:

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Diagnosis

    • Tonometer

    • Ophthalmic Test Kits

    • Electroretinogram (ERG)

    • Fundus Camera

    • Ophthalmoscope

    • Pachymeter

    • Other Diagnosis

  • Treatment

    • Medications

      • Antibiotics

      • NSAIDs

      • Corticosteroids

      • Other Drugs

    • Lenses

      • Bandage Lenses

      • Intraocular Lenses

    • Laser Devices

    • Other Treatment

• Animal Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Canine

  • Feline

  • Equine

  • Bovine

  • Other Animal Type

• Route of Administration Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Oral

  • Topical

  • Injectable

• Indication Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Eyelid Abnormalities

  • Cataract

  • Glaucoma

  • Retinal Complications

  • Uveitis

  • Conjunctivitis

  • Corneal Complications

  • Others

• Sales Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Veterinary Hospitals & Clinics

  • Pet Specialty Stores

  • E-Commerce

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Sweden

    • Norway

    • Denmark

    • Rest of Europe

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • South Korea

    • Australia

    • Thailand

    • Rest of APAC

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Mexico

    • Argentina

    • Rest of LA

  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait

    • Rest of Middle East & Africa