The Europe veterinary antibiotics market size is estimated to reach USD 1.43 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 2.31% from 2025 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The rising focus on animal-only antibiotics and ionophores, the launch of new products, and the increasing use of veterinary antibiotics are some of the major factors augmenting the industry's growth. In addition, the rising prevalence and incidence of livestock diseases and concerns regarding zoonoses are further propelling the industry's growth. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the veterinary antibiotic business operations of key players and resulted in declined financial performance during the initial time.
The effect of the pandemic with various production and supply chain bottlenecks delayed the delivery of necessary raw materials or active ingredients and postponed certain research & development activities. However, with the easing of restrictions, manufacturers were able to supply antibiotics to meet the necessary veterinary requirements. Few major players have reported significant growth in antibiotic sales despite the pandemic. For instance, Virbac’s bovine antibiotic sales grew from USD 66.98 million in 2020 to USD 79.30 million in 2021. The global concern regarding antibiotic resistance is growing in agriculture and veterinary medicine. Despite the regulatory changes implemented by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for restriction and ban on routine antibiotic use, the overall sales of veterinary antimicrobial active ingredients have observed significant growth in the past few years.
For instance, according to the EMA, overall veterinary antimicrobial active substance sales grew from 5,282 tonnes in 2019 to 5,562 tonnes in 2020. Furthermore, major players, such as Elanco, have shifted their focus to animal-only antibiotics, as a measure to address antibiotic resistance while also protecting animal health. Key players are implementing various strategic initiatives, such as mergers, partnerships, acquisitions, collaborations, and new product launches, to maintain their competitive edge. For instance, in December 2021, Virbac, in collaboration with Pharmgate, launched Tulissin, an antibiotic solution for swine and cattle with respiratory pathologies. These activities are expected to intensify the competition between major antibiotic manufacturers in the coming years.
Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Europe Veterinary Antibiotics Market Report
The cattle animal type segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024 owing to the easy availability of cattle antibiotics and increased consumption of beef & dairy products
By drug class, the penicillin segment held the largest revenue share in 2024. Penicillinis one of the most commonly sold antibiotic drug classes in Europe for veterinary application
The oral solution segment led the market in 2024 owing to the easy & convenient usage of these dosage forms. These solutions are preferably dispensed in the drinking water
Key factors contributing to the notable share of the U.K. include the easy availability of veterinary antibiotics and an increase in pet ownership & pet insurance rates
The industry is fairly competitive owing to the presence of major players. Various strategic initiatives implemented by companies are greatly contributing to the growth of the industry.
Grand View Research has segmented the Europe veterinary antibiotics market based on animal type, drug class, dosage form, and country:
Europe Veterinary Antibiotics Animal Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Pigs
Cattle
Sheep & Goats
Poultry
Others
Europe Veterinary Antibiotics Drug Class Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Tetracyclines
Penicillins
Sulfonamides
Macrolides
Trimethoprim
Lincosamides
Polymyxins
Aminoglycosides
Fluoroquinolones
Pleuromutilins
Other Drug Class
Europe Veterinary AntibioticsDosage Form Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Oral Powder
Oral Solution
Injection
Other Dosage Forms
Europe Veterinary Antibiotics Country Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Germany
UK
The Netherlands
Belgium
Denmark
France
Italy
Spain
Hungary
Poland
Portugal
Romania
List of Key Players in the Europe Veterinary Antibiotics Market
Merck & Co., Inc.
Ceva
Zoetis
Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH
Elanco
Vetoquinol S.A.
Virbac
Calier
Bimeda, Inc.
Prodivet pharmaceuticals sa/nv
"The quality of research they have done for us has been excellent..."