Pets hold a special place in our hearts, often regarded as cherished members of our families. Whether it's the wagging tail of a loyal dog, the purring comfort of a contented cat, or the playful antics of a curious rabbit, pets bring joy, companionship, and unconditional love into our lives. According to pet ownership statistics, as of 2024, 66% of households in the United States, totalling 86.9 million homes, possess a pet. This represents a notable increase from the 56% reported in 1988. Among pets, dogs rank as the most favoured companion, with 65.1 million households owning a dog, followed by cats (46.5 million households) and freshwater fish (11.1 million households). As pet ownership continues to rise worldwide, so does the responsibility to provide them with the best possible care.

Just like humans, pets require medical attention to maintain their health and well-being. From routine check-ups and vaccinations to treatment for illnesses and injuries, veterinary care is essential for ensuring that our furry friends lead happy and healthy lives. However, the quality of this care is heavily dependent on the availability of effective medications and treatments.

This is where pet medicine companies come into play. These companies are at the forefront of research, development, and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and other healthcare products specifically designed for animals. Their dedication to advancing veterinary medicine enables veterinarians to diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of illnesses and conditions in pets, ultimately improving their quality of life.

According to TechSci Research report “Companion Animal Pharmaceuticals Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2019-2029 Segmented By Indication (infectious diseases, dermatologic diseases, pain, orthopedic diseases, behavioral diseases, other), By Animal (dogs, cats, horses, other), By Distribution Channel (veterinary hospitals and clinics, retail pharmacies, Others), By Region and Competition,” the Global Companion Animal Pharmaceuticals Market was valued at USD 14.52 Billion in 2023 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 8.25% through 2029.

The market growth is driven by increasing pet ownership. An essential catalyst for the expansion of the companion animal pharmaceuticals market is the increasing global population of pet owners. For example, India boasts an estimated canine population of around 10,200,000, securing its position as the sixth-largest nation in terms of total dog ownership. The United States holds the top spot with approximately 69,929,000 dogs, followed by China with 27,400,000, and Russia with 12,520,000. Japan ranks fourth with 12,000,000 dogs, while the Philippines occupies the fifth position with 11,600,000. As more people welcome pets into their homes and families, the demand for veterinary medications and healthcare products has surged.

This trend is particularly prominent in urban areas and among younger demographics, where pet ownership is on the rise. In addition, a discernible change in pet owners' attitudes towards their animals has emerged, as many now regard them as essential family members. This trend of humanizing pets has resulted in increased pet owner willingness to allocate resources towards their pets' health and wellness. In 2022, Americans demonstrated their commitment to their pets by spending USD 136.8 billion, marking a substantial 11% rise from the 2021 expenditure of USD 123.6 billion.

As a result, there is an escalating demand for top-tier pharmaceuticals and healthcare products tailored to meet the specific requirements of companion animals, encompassing preventive care, nutritional supplements, and treatment options for diverse medical conditions. Besides, comparable to demographic trends in human populations, the pet demographic is also undergoing aging, resulting in a rise in the incidence of age-related ailments and chronic illnesses among companion animals.

With pets enjoying extended lifespans, there is a heightened demand for pharmaceuticals and healthcare solutions specifically designed to address the requirements of elderly pets. This encompasses medications targeting conditions such as arthritis, cognitive impairment, and other age-related maladies, consequently stimulating growth within the companion animal pharmaceuticals sector.

Top 10 Pet Medicine Companies in the World:

1.    Merck Animal Health

With operations in more than 150 countries, Merck Animal Health is a renowned global leader in the field of animal health, dedicated to enhancing the well-being of animals and the people who care for them. As a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Merck Animal Health operates with a mission to develop innovative solutions for the prevention and treatment of diseases affecting both companion animals and livestock.

The Animal Health division of the company engages in the exploration, development, manufacturing, and marketing of an extensive array of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and health management solutions and services. These offerings cater to the prevention, treatment, and control of diseases across all major livestock and companion animal species.

In 2024, Merck Animal Health achieved approval from the European Commission for BRAVECTO® injection for dogs. This product is designed to provide immediate and persistent elimination of fleas and ticks.

2.    Zoetis Inc

Zoetis Inc. stands as a global frontrunner in the animal health sector, with a steadfast focus on the exploration, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of an extensive range of products and services. This comprehensive portfolio encompasses medicines, vaccines, diagnostic products, biodevices, genetic tests, and precision animal health technology, reaching customers in over 100 countries worldwide.

The company operates across a diversified spectrum, marketing its offerings to eight core species: dogs, cats, horses, cattle, swine, poultry, fish, and sheep, and addresses seven major product categories, including parasiticides, vaccines, dermatology, anti-infectives, other pharmaceutical products, medicated feed additives, and animal health diagnostics. Its companion animal portfolio contributed about 68% of revenue in 2024, illustrating Zoetis's dominant position in pet health solutions. Core products include Simparica Trio, Apoquel, Cytopoint, Librela, and Solensia, all of which support enhanced care for pets and improved practice efficiency for veterinarians.

In 2022, Zoetis augmented its global reach and capabilities through the acquisition of Jurox, an Australian animal health company, and Basepaws, a leader in petcare genetics, bringing expanded manufacturing, a broader diagnostics offering, and advanced genetic insights to veterinarians and pet owners. The company invested a record $650 million in R&D in 2024, underscoring its innovation-driven approach and commitment to developing next-generation animal health solutions.

3.    Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc.

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health is a prominent global leader in the animal health industry, dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of animals in more than 130 markets worldwide, with a workforce of approximately 54,500 employees.

As a subsidiary of Boehringer Ingelheim, the company maintains a robust commitment to innovation and research, reflected by industry-leading investments and a portfolio that includes vaccines, parasite-control products, and therapeutics for pets, horses, swine, ruminants, and poultry. Flagship brands such as NEXGARD®, FRONTLINE, and HEARTGARD® underpin its strong presence in the companion animal segment, serving millions of customers and veterinarians annually.

Boehringer Ingelheim has reinforced its global innovation networks, with active partnerships including MabGenesis Inc. to advance monoclonal antibody therapies for canine use and further collaborations like the 2025 CarthroniX alliance to develop small-molecule therapies in canine oncology for cancer treatment. These initiatives demonstrate the company’s dedication to advancing both preventive and therapeutic care in veterinary medicine.

4.    Elanco Animal Health Incorporated

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated and its subsidiaries stand as a global leader in the animal health industry, distributing an extensive product portfolio in over 90 countries and supported by approximately 9,000 employees worldwide. In 2023, top-performing brands such as the Advantage Family, Seresto, Rumensin, Credelio Family, and Maxiban collectively accounted for about 31% of Elanco’s total revenue, demonstrating robust performance in both pet and livestock segments.

With a strong focus on innovation, Elanco’s pet health portfolio, which includes parasiticides, vaccines, and therapeutics, was driven by the U.S. Pet Health segment, achieving 11% year-over-year growth in Q2 2025, led by newer launches like Credelio Quattro, Zenrelia, and AdTab. The company’s parasiticide offerings remain among the broadest in the sector, providing comprehensive protection for dogs and cats against fleas, ticks, and internal parasites, and supporting pet well-being and activity. Elanco continues to enhance its capabilities with major global launches and strategic investments, solidifying its commitment to extending animal longevity and health across species.

5.    Ceva Santé Animale

Ceva Santé Animale, led by seasoned veterinarians and ranked as the 5th largest animal health enterprise globally, recorded €1.77 billion in revenue and employs over 7,000 people across 47 countries as of 2025. Notably, Ceva Santé Animale holds the distinction of being the foremost French entity in the animal health sector, with its headquarters situated in Libourne, France.

With a history spanning over 20 years, Ceva Santé Animale has firmly established itself as a trusted partner to veterinarians, farmers, pet owners, and animal health professionals across the globe. The company's diverse portfolio encompasses pharmaceuticals, vaccines, biologics, and healthcare products tailored to meet the unique needs of animals in various sectors.

In the third quarter of 2022, Ceva Santé Animale witnessed the integration of over 200 new team members into the One Ceva community through the acquisition of three companies. These include Artemis Technologies, Inc., a Canadian manufacturer specializing in oral rabies vaccines; Zoovet, a company renowned for its production and distribution of animal health products; and Biotecnofe, a pioneering biotech startup focused on developing innovative products for commercialization under Zoovet's banner.

6.    Virbac

Headquartered in Carros, France, Virbac reported revenue of €1.10 billion for the first nine months of 2025, driven by robust growth in both companion animal and livestock segments. The company employs over 6,300 people globally and delivers a portfolio including pharmaceuticals, vaccines, dermatological solutions, dental care, and nutritional supplements tailored for a variety of animal species.

In the first three quarters of 2025, revenue for the companion animal business grew by 11.3% at constant exchange rates and scope, with strong performance in dental, dermatology, pet food, and specialty product lines, while the farm animal segment saw 6.1% growth, particularly in ruminant vaccines and nutritional products. Virbac has also leveraged acquisitions like Mopsan and Sasaeah to deepen its presence in emerging markets and further build its sustainable, innovation-driven reputation in veterinary medicine.

7.    Vetoquinol

Vetoquinol stands as a distinguished global leader in the animal health industry, dedicated to enhancing the well-being of animals worldwide. With a heritage dating back over 80 years, Vetoquinol has solidified its reputation as a trusted partner to veterinarians, pet owners, livestock producers, and animal health professionals.

Headquartered in Lure, France, Vetoquinol operates with a steadfast commitment to innovation, research, and excellence in veterinary medicine. The company's comprehensive portfolio includes a wide range of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, nutritional supplements, and dermatological products, designed to address the diverse needs of companion animals, livestock, and poultry.

Vetoquinol holds a significant position among the primary global contenders in the animal health sector, catering to both livestock and pets. As an independent entity, the company is singularly dedicated to driving innovation, developing, manufacturing, and globally distributing veterinary medications and non-medicinal products.

8.    DECHRA PHARMACEUTICALS

Dechra is a renowned global expert in the veterinary pharmaceuticals and associated products industry. As of October 2025, Dechra Pharmaceuticals reported a trailing twelve-month (TTM) revenue of approximately $960 million USD and employed over 2,400 staff members worldwide.

The company’s revenue figures demonstrate steady growth, supported by its extensive product portfolio, including pharmaceuticals, vaccines, analgesics, anesthetics, and specialized treatments for conditions such as equine lameness and nutrition. Dechra’s global footprint encompasses more than 100 markets, and its strategic acquisitions and innovations continue to reinforce its standing as a prominent player in the veterinary pharmaceuticals industry.

9.    Phibro Animal Health Corporation

Phibro Animal Health Corporation operates globally with a strong presence in over 90 countries, supporting livestock producers, farmers, veterinarians, and animal caregivers with a diverse portfolio that includes antibacterials, anticoccidials, nutritional specialty products, vaccines, and vaccine adjuvants. For the fiscal year 2025, Phibro reported consolidated net sales of approximately $1.30 billion, marking significant growth compared to prior years, driven notably by their acquisition of Zoetis's Medicated Feed Additives portfolio, which added $94.5 million in sales and six new manufacturing sites.

The Animal Health segment experienced a 53% sales increase to $292.5 million in Q4 2025, fueled by strong demand for MFAs and other products, alongside solid gains in nutritional specialties and vaccines. Adjusted EBITDA for the full year rose to $183.7 million, with net income reaching $48.3 million, reflecting the company’s successful integration of acquisitions and operational efficiencies. Phibro continues to broaden its product reach and impact in animal health, strengthening its position as a trusted partner in livestock and companion animal care.

10. Mars, Incorporated

Mars, Incorporated is a globally renowned, family-owned company with annual revenue exceeding $55 billion as of 2025, operating across industries including confectionery, pet care, food, and beverage. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Mars maintains a workforce of over 150,000 employees worldwide and manages iconic brands such as M&M's, Snickers, Pedigree, Whiskas, and Uncle Ben's.

The company's pet care division has become a significant revenue driver, fueled by investments like the 2017 $9.1 billion acquisition of VCA Inc., which expanded Mars’ presence in veterinary services and leveraged strong consumer loyalty among pet owners. Mars’s long-term strategic focus is embodied in its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the "Five Principles" of Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency, and Freedom, which guide its mission to create positive societal and environmental impact while delivering value to customers and stakeholders.

Conclusion

The top 10 pet medicine companies in the world stand as beacons of innovation, dedication, and compassion in the field of veterinary medicine. Through their unwavering commitment to research, development, and sustainability, these companies have revolutionized the way we care for our beloved animal companions. From pioneering pharmaceuticals and vaccines to advanced diagnostics and software solutions, they continuously strive to improve the health and well-being of pets worldwide.

Their relentless pursuit of excellence not only ensures that pets receive the highest quality care but also fosters stronger bonds between animals and their owners. As trusted leaders in the industry, these companies set the standard for veterinary medicine, driving progress and innovation that enriches the lives of pets and their families.