Veterinary Pain Management Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product, By Indication, By Animal Type, By Route of Administration (Parenteral, Oral, Topical), By Mode of Purchase, By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Veterinary Pain Management Market Trends

The global veterinary pain management market size was estimated at USD 2.09 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.46% from 2024 to 2030. The rising prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) in pets, adoption of mAbs for pain control, R&D investment for novel treatment option are key growth drivers for this market. An increase in pet adoption and the rising public knowledge of the benefits of better pet care will continue to fuel the growth. Additionally, new investments in technology developments and innovations are expected to open up new market opportunities for major companies in the coming years.

Similarly, the rise in worldwide pet obesity is a primary element driving market growth. For instance, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) estimates that in the United States, in 2022, 59% of dogs and 61% of cats were overweight or obese. Additionally, according to a European study, 32% of the dogs in the study were overweight or obese, 62% were of a normal weight, and 6% were underweight when their Body Mass Index (BMI) was estimated.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, 33% of pet parents with overweight pets have stated that the pandemic caused their pets to acquire weight. Products that are used in the treatment of pain related arthritis are in more demand as a result of this. Nonetheless, the majority of pet parents (73%) felt at ease telling people that their overweight pet didn't need to see a doctor. Additionally, results from a recent investigation conducted by Hill's Pet Nutrition and Kelton Global showed that pet overweight and obesity have been on the rise for years. Furthermore, Covid-19 contributed to this problem. According to veterinarians, over 71% of pet professionals feel the outbreak has had an impact on pet feeding choices. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the severity of pet obesity.

The adoption of pet insurance alleviates financial barriers, increases awareness and education, supports the use of advanced treatments, and encourages regular veterinary visits, all of which contribute to the growing demand for veterinary pain management services and products. Furthermore, pet owners may be more likely to seek out sophisticated or specialized treatment that they might have been considered too costly if they had insurance coverage. According to the AVMA, pet owners are increasingly using pet insurance to help them budget for the medical expenses related to their animals. Spending on dog veterinary care increased significantly between 2020 and 2022, with the average yearly cost of veterinary visits rising from USD 224 in 2020 to USD 362 in 2022.

The rising prevalence of disorders in animals drives the veterinary pain management market. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases in animals nowadays. Zoetis data from 2024 show that dogs have a more than 40% prevalence of OA. Early-life structural changes in dogs can result in patellar luxation in small breeds and hip dysplasia in large breeds, both of which can cause osteoarthritis. Dogs of all sizes are therefore encouraged to get examined for OA. Dogs may show signs of osteoarthritis (OA) long before the illness is commonly recognized. Modern methods for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic illnesses in animals are now available due to the remarkable advancements in the field of veterinary medicine.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The veterinary pain management market is moderately concentrated. The market is expanding at a faster rate and currently lies in a medium growth stage. The growing number of pet owners is a primary driver of market growth. As more individuals acquire pets as friends, the number of pets worldwide is growing. The need for veterinary services, particularly the requirement for NSAIDs, and anesthetics is increased by the rise in pet ownership. According to the Elanco Animal Health survey for 2022, for instance, pet ownership in China is expected to increase from 19% of homes in 2020 to 40% of households by 2030. The demand for specialized medical care, such as orthopedic treatments, is rising as more people bring dogs into their homes.

The market exhibits a moderate to high level of innovation, as demonstrated by the constant collaboration and joint ventures among industry participants, the introduction of new products, and supportive initiatives. For instance, in May 2023, Elanco announced a breakthrough treatment for canine parvovirus. This treatment is the only approved therapeutic solution that can successfully treat the highly contagious and deadly disease that affects dogs. The treatment can reduce the mortality rate of the virus to 91% without supportive care.

There is a moderate to high level of M&A activity in the market, which indicates that industry players are continuing to consolidate and make strategic acquisitions and alliances. For instance, in June 2023, EQT, a Swedish investment firm, invested USD 4.72 billion to acquire Dechra Pharmaceuticals, a manufacturer of veterinary drugs.

The market is experiencing a moderate impact of regulations. Regulatory Authorities, such as the U.S. FDA, EU, European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), etc., approve and regulate the drugs intended for animal use.

The market experiences a moderate level of product substitutes. The availability of substitutes often leads to increased competition, which can drive down prices. In both human and veterinary medicine, the type and standard of treatment differ from region to region. While these products are widely regarded as a conventional form of veterinary care, there are alternative forms of care available in certain countries.

High levels of regional growth operations in the market are caused by initiatives by major competitors in the market. For example, in October 2021, Zoeits expanded its development and manufacturing facilities in Ireland (Tullamore), which increased its capacity for producing animal monoclonal antibodies.

Animal Type Insights

Production animals segment accounted for the largest market share in terms of revenue in 2023, owing to increasing incidence of chronic diseases, awareness amongst animal healthcare organizations, and high animal healthcare spending in developing countries. It is difficult to assess pain in livestock animals and the visible symptoms are lameness, increased respiratory rate and increased vocalization, expiratory grunt, and teeth grinding. The most commonly used medication are NSAIDS, α2 adrenergic drugs, and local anesthetics. Moreover, according to FAO, Animal products account for one-third of the protein consumed by people in developing countries, which boosts the production of livestock and is necessary to meet the growing nutritional needs of the world's population. The combined effect of these variables explains why production animals hold a significant market share within the animal type sector.

Companion animal segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period owing to an increase in their ownership, awareness, and demand for efficient animal care. Moreover, the increasing incidence of obesity and other chronic conditions, such as osteoarthritis, and cancer, is further propelling the market. According to an Animal Care Foundation report, In the US, every year, almost six million new cases of cancer are diagnosed in dogs, and a comparable number in cats. This factor is anticipated to accelerate market expansion in the near future.

Indication Insights

Osteoarthritis (OA) segment accounted for the largest market share in terms of revenue in 2023, owing to high prevalence of diseases; especially in canine animals. Moreover, certain breeds are more prone to developing osteoarthritis due to genetic factors. For example, large dog breeds like Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds are predisposed to hip dysplasia and subsequent arthritis. Nutraceuticals are preferred for mild and NSAIDs, coxibs are prescribed for moderate to severe pain associated with OA. The prescribed drugs for the disease are Galliprant, Meloxicam, Rimadyl, and Metacam among others.

Post-operative pain segment is anticipated to grow at a fastest CAGR over a forecast period. Rising surgical procedures owing to incidence of diseases and demand for better pet care are instrumental in driving adoption of pain management pharmaceuticals in developed as well as developing economies. Post-operative ache is a major cause of death in many animals due to the lack of analgesics. Hence, companies focus on developing analgesics that can address the post-operative pain as the use of opioids is strictly monitored. The others segment include pain due to cancer, abdominal pain, neuropathic pain, and among others. This segment is also expected to showcase steady growth over the forecast period owing to the high prevalence of cancer and other disorders.

Product Insights

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) accounted for the largest market share in terms of revenue in 2023 and is expected to expand at a lucrative CAGR over the forecast period. These are the most commonly used medications for pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Companies are striving to produce new NSAIDs that have less harmful effects and responses. Moreover, initiatives by key players, such as launching new products are further propellling the market growth. For instance, in November 2023, Krka launched Robexera, the first generic robenacoxib solution for the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with chronic osteoarthritis (OA) and soft tissue surgery in dogs.

Anesthetics segment is anticipated to grow at a fastest CAGR over the forecast period. Anesthetics are crucial for performing surgeries and invasive procedures on animals. They ensure that the animals do not experience pain during the operation and help maintain stable physiological parameters. These products are used during surgeries and to reduce post-operative aches. According to a 2021 - 2022 APPA report, around USD 458.0 is spent on surgical visits.

Route of Administration Insights

Oral segment dominated the veterinary pain management market in 2023. Oral tablets are easier to administer compared to other forms of medication like injections. This convenience encourages pet owners to comply with prescribed pain management regimens, ensuring that animals receive consistent and effective pain relief. A wide variety of pain management medications are available in oral tablet form, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and adjunctive pain medications. This variety allows veterinarians to customize pain management strategies to suit different conditions and pain levels.

Topical segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. Topical medications are often easier to apply than oral or injectable forms, especially for animals that are difficult to handle. Owners can apply these treatments without the need for specialized skills, reducing stress for both pets and their owners. Topical formulations allow for direct application to the site of pain or inflammation. This localized treatment can be more effective for certain conditions, such as arthritis or localized injuries, providing rapid relief with potentially fewer systemic side effects.

Mode of Purchase Insights

Prescription segment dominated the veterinary pain management market in 2023. Prescription pain medications come with the benefit of professional monitoring. Veterinarians can supervise the administration of these drugs, adjust dosages as necessary, and monitor for side effects or complications. This oversight is crucial for the safe and effective use of potent pain medications. Chronic pain conditions in animals often require long-term management plans that include regular veterinary check-ups and adjustments to medication. Prescription medications facilitate this ongoing management, ensuring consistent and effective pain relief. Moreover, prescription medications include a range of advanced pharmacological options, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and novel therapies like monoclonal antibodies. These options are often unavailable OTC due to their potency and the need for professional supervision.

End-use Insights

Hospitals & clinics dominated the veterinary pain management market with a share of over 82.71% in 2023. This can be attributed to the growing patient footfall in these hospitals to treat these diseases in animals. Thus, this segment is anticipated to exhibit considerable growth over the forecast period. Moreover, the availability of a wide range of treatments as well as diagnostic options in veterinary hospitals & clinics is a high-impact rendering driver for this segment.

The others segment includes research centers, emergency facilities, and various animal care centers. This segment is expected to witness lucrative growth over the forecast period owing to the technologically advanced systems used within these facilities. Some of these include pet owner mobile technology and efficient information management systems. The lucrative CAGR can also be attributed to increasing R&D investments and funding to develop advanced treatment options. Investments to enhance diagnostic procedures through the development of new generation technologies for diagnosis in companion animals are also expected to bode well for segment growth over the forecast period.

Regional Insights

The veterinary pain management market in North America accounted for the largest share of 38.26% in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period. The market is propelled by the existence of well-established competitors and the rising demand for services from veterinarians. Moreover, North America's growing pet population is driving up demand for veterinary services.

U.S. Veterinary Pain Management Market Trends

The presence of a large number of veterinary hospitals in the United States is a significant factor driving the Veterinary Pain Management market. For instance, there were 48,487 Veterinary Services businesses in the US as of 2023. With more veterinary hospitals, there is a greater focus on advanced medical procedures and treatments. Moreover, the growing consciousness about pet health among owners has boosted expenditure on pet care, which drives the veterinary pain management market.

Europe Veterinary Pain Management Market Trends

The Europe veterinary pain management market is expected to grow at a significant pace due to growing awareness of animal health and favorable government regulations. There is an increasing awareness among pet owners and livestock farmers about animal health and welfare. This includes recognizing the importance of pain management in enhancing the quality of life for animals.

The UK veterinary pain management market is witnessing arise in pet humanization and advancements in veterinary medicines that are significantly driving market. The trend of treating pets as family members has led to increased spending on their health and wellness. Pet owners are more inclined to seek comprehensive veterinary care, including pain management, to ensure their pets’ quality of life.

Asia Pacific Veterinary Pain Management Market Trends

The Asia Pacific market is expected to exhibit lucrative growth over the forecast period. The region's growth can be attributed to a number of factors, including an increasing number of pets, the rising prevalence of animal diseases, rising concerns about animal health, and the region's growing livestock population.

The veterinary pain management market in India is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.71% over the forecast period due to the rising livestock production, growing dairy industry, and increasing number of veterinary healthcare facilities. India's large agricultural sector relies heavily on livestock, including cattle, goats, and poultry which further supports the market growth in the country.

Latin America Veterinary Pain Management Market Trends

The Latin America market is driven by the expansion of veterinary services. The expansion of veterinary clinics and hospitals in urban and rural areas of Latin America provides greater accessibility to veterinary care, including pain management services. This accessibility encourages more pet owners to seek professional help for managing their pets' pain.

The Veterinary Pain Management Market in Brazil is influenced by several key factors such as rising veterinary healthcare expenditure and increasing awareness of animal welfare. There is an increasing emphasis on animal welfare standards, both domestically and internationally. As disposable income increases in Brazil, pet owners are more willing to spend on veterinary healthcare, including pain management services and products.

Middle East & Africa Veterinary Pain Management Market Trends

South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the UAE constitute the Middle East & Africa (MEA) Veterinary Pain Management market. In the MEA, the increasing requirement of veterinary medicine is expected to drive the Veterinary Pain Management Market growth over the forecast period. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases in animals is expected to increase demand for veterinary procedures, diagnostics, treatments, and medications.

The South Africa veterinary pain management market is growing due to urbanization and changing lifestyles, where pets are becoming integral parts of families. This shift can lead to increased awareness and demand for pain management services among urban pet owners, leading to the market growth.

Key Veterinary Pain Management Company Insights

The market is fairly competitive due to the existence of key market participants. Due to the existence of multiple small and large companies, the market is slightly fragmented. Thus, small players face intense competition to maintain their market position. Moreover, companies are increasingly adopting various strategies, such as mergers & acquisitions, geographic expansion, and the launch of products to grow in the market. For instance, in March 2022, Elanco expanded the shared value footprint across Sub-Saharan Africa to create sustainable development solutions for those dependent on livestock for livelihoods.

Recent Developments

• In December 2022, Norbrook, launched Firox, a new chewable tablet containing firocoxib, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for dogs. Firox is used to control pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and postoperative pain.

• In May 2023, Zoetis Inc. received FDA approval for Librela, a novel anti-NGF monoclonal antibody treatment for canine osteoarthritis pain in dogs that further improves their mobility and quality of life.

Veterinary Pain Management Market Report Scope

Global Veterinary Pain Management Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the veterinary pain management market report based on product, animal type, mode of purchase, indication, route of administration, end-use, and region. 

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

  • NSAIDs

  • Anesthetics

  • Opioids

  • Others

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

  • Production Animals

  • Companion Animals

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

  • Osteoarthritis

  • post-operative pain

  • Others

• Mode of Purchase Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Prescription

  • OTC

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

  • Parenteral

  • Oral

  • Topical

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Hospitals & Clinics

  • Others

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

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • India

    • China

    • South Korea

    • Australia

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait