Veterinary Anti-infectives Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Animal Type (Livestock Animal, Companion Animal), By Product (Antimicrobial, Antifungals, Antivirals, Antiparasitic, Others), By Route of Administration (Oral, Injectable, Topical), By Distribution Channel (Hospital/ Clinic Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacies, E-commerce), By Region and Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market was valued at USD 8.37 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 12.20 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 6.45%. The Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market is experiencing steady growth as livestock and companion animal populations continue to rise, driving greater demand for effective disease prevention and treatment solutions. Anti-infectives play a critical role in maintaining animal health, ensuring food safety, and supporting the global supply of animal-based proteins. The increasing prevalence of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections in animals is creating a strong need for advanced anti-infective medicines across both livestock and companion animal sectors. Growing awareness among farmers and pet owners about the importance of timely veterinary care has further accelerated the adoption of antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and combination therapies. Expanding commercial livestock farming to meet the rising demand for meat, milk, and eggs has amplified the importance of disease control, positioning veterinary anti-infectives as an indispensable component of modern animal healthcare practices.

Growth drivers for the market include the rising incidence of zoonotic diseases, which has heightened the focus on controlling animal infections to safeguard public health. Increasing investments in veterinary research and development are also fueling innovation in anti-infective formulations, including long-acting injectables, targeted drug delivery systems, and combination therapies that address resistance issues. Demand for preventive solutions is gaining traction as producers and pet owners shift toward health management practices that reduce treatment costs and improve productivity. A major trend shaping the market is the transition toward antibiotic alternatives such as probiotics, phytogenics, and immunostimulants, reflecting global concerns about antimicrobial resistance. Continuous advancements in diagnostic technologies are also enabling faster detection of infections, which complements the effective use of anti-infectives and supports precision veterinary medicine.

The market faces challenges that could restrict its potential in the coming years. High development costs for new veterinary medicines, coupled with stringent regulatory approval processes, often delay product launches and limit accessibility in certain regions. Concerns around antimicrobial resistance are leading to stricter restrictions on antibiotic usage, pressuring manufacturers to invest in alternatives while balancing affordability for end users. Limited awareness among small-scale livestock farmers about the correct use of anti-infectives can result in misuse, reduced efficacy, and increased resistance risks. Supply chain limitations in remote or underdeveloped areas also restrict timely access to critical medicines. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts between governments, pharmaceutical companies, and veterinary service providers to enhance awareness, strengthen distribution networks, and accelerate innovation in safer, sustainable anti-infective solutions. Despite these hurdles, the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market is expected to expand, supported by rising animal health needs, evolving healthcare practices, and ongoing advancements in veterinary therapeutics.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Incidence of Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry

The rising incidence of infectious diseases in livestock and poultry is a significant driver of the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market. In the United States, the USDA reported processing over 9.4 billion broiler chickens and 218 million turkeys in 2023. This large-scale production increases the risk of disease outbreaks, necessitating effective anti-infective solutions to maintain animal health and productivity. Similarly, India, with the world's highest livestock population, including 300 million cattle and buffaloes and 851 million poultry, faces challenges in managing diseases among its vast animal population. The prevalence of diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease and Lumpy Skin Disease in these regions underscores the need for robust veterinary anti-infective measures.

In China, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has been proactive in enhancing animal health surveillance and disease control programs to address the growing concerns of infectious diseases in livestock and poultry. The government's efforts to strengthen veterinary infrastructure and promote disease prevention strategies have contributed to the increased demand for veterinary anti-infectives. These initiatives aim to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases on animal health and ensure food security. The escalating incidence of infectious diseases in livestock and poultry across these regions highlights the critical need for effective veterinary anti-infectives to safeguard animal health and support the growth of the global veterinary anti-infectives market.

Expanding Companion Animal Ownership

A significant driver for the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market is the expanding ownership of companion animals, particularly in urban and suburban regions worldwide. Rising disposable incomes, changing lifestyles, and increased awareness of the emotional and psychological benefits of pet ownership have led to substantial growth in the number of dogs, cats, and other small animals being kept as pets. This trend has created a strong demand for veterinary care, including anti-infective therapies, to ensure the health, longevity, and well-being of companion animals. Pet owners are increasingly willing to invest in preventive healthcare, routine check-ups, and treatments for infections, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of maintaining animal health to avoid costly or severe disease outbreaks.

The rise in companion animal ownership has also prompted the development of specialized anti-infective products tailored to small animals, including water-soluble formulations, flavored medications, and long-acting injectables that improve compliance and ease of administration. Veterinary clinics and hospitals are expanding their services to cater to this growing pet population, offering comprehensive treatment plans that integrate vaccines, antivirals, and antibiotics. Awareness campaigns by veterinary associations and pet care organizations are educating owners about the risks of viral and bacterial infections, as well as the importance of early intervention and responsible medication usage. The increasing trend of humanizing pets has led to demand for higher-quality, safe, and effective anti-infectives that meet the same rigorous standards applied to human medicines. Rising companion animal ownership is expected to sustain growth in the veterinary anti-infectives market, creating opportunities for manufacturers to innovate, introduce targeted therapies, and expand distribution networks to meet evolving consumer needs and ensure optimal animal health.

Supportive Government and Industry Initiatives

Supportive government and industry initiatives have significantly influenced the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, particularly in 2023 and 2024. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) implemented a pivotal policy in June 2023, transitioning all over-the-counter(OTC) medically important antimicrobials for animals to prescription status. This move aimed to bolster veterinary oversight and enhance antimicrobial stewardship, ensuring that antibiotics are used judiciously to mitigate the risk of resistance.

Concurrently, the FDA's 2023 report indicated a 2% decrease in the sales and distribution of medically important antimicrobial drugs for food-producing animals, marking a 37% decline from the peak in 2015. This trend reflects the effectiveness of regulatory measures in curbing unnecessary antibiotic use.

In alignment with these federal efforts, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) launched a comprehensive strategy in 2023 to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This strategy encompasses three primary areas: reducing disease and pathogen transmission, enhancing scientific knowledge on AMR risks, and improving communication and collaboration within USDA and with external partners. The initiative outlines ten priorities, including promoting biosecurity and improving animal and crop health, to mitigate AMR risks in agricultural settings. Additionally, the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) initiated audits in 2023 for beef and pork operations conforming to the Certified Responsible Antibiotic Use (CRAU) standard. This certification prohibits the routine use of antibiotics with analogues in human medicine without clear medical justification, aiming to promote responsible antibiotic use in livestock production. These coordinated efforts underscore the critical role of government and industry collaborations in advancing veterinary anti-infective practices and combating antimicrobial resistance.

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Key Market Challenges

Rising Concerns Over Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

Rising concerns over antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represent one of the most significant challenges for the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, as the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in livestock and companion animals contribute to the development of drug-resistant pathogens. AMR poses serious threats not only to animal health but also to human health due to the potential transfer of resistant bacteria through the food chain, direct contact, or environmental contamination. Regulatory authorities worldwide are increasingly implementing stricter guidelines to limit antibiotic use in animals, including restrictions on growth-promoting antibiotics and tighter controls on prophylactic administration. These regulations create pressure on manufacturers and veterinarians to adopt alternative approaches to disease management, such as vaccines, immunostimulants, probiotics, and other non-antibiotic therapies, which may not always be as widely available or cost-effective as traditional anti-infectives.

The growing awareness of AMR among consumers, farmers, and healthcare professionals has intensified demand for responsible and judicious use of veterinary medicines. Pharmaceutical companies face the challenge of balancing the development of effective anti-infectives with compliance to evolving global standards while ensuring affordability for farmers, particularly in emerging markets where cost sensitivity is high. Research and development efforts to create next-generation therapies that are effective yet less prone to resistance are resource-intensive, requiring significant time and financial investment. Inadequate farmer education and poor adherence to dosing protocols can exacerbate resistance issues, further complicating disease management. The AMR challenge is reshaping treatment strategies and driving innovation in veterinary medicine, but it also imposes significant operational, regulatory, and economic pressures on the veterinary anti-infectives market, making it a critical hurdle for sustained growth and adoption.

Stringent Regulatory Approvals and Compliance

Stringent regulatory approvals and compliance represent one of the primary challenges faced by the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, significantly impacting the speed and cost of bringing new products to market. Regulatory authorities across major markets, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and various national veterinary agencies in Asia-Pacific, enforce rigorous safety, efficacy, and quality standards for veterinary anti-infective drugs. Manufacturers are required to conduct extensive preclinical and clinical trials, often spanning multiple years, to generate sufficient data demonstrating the product’s effectiveness and minimal risk to both animals and humans. The need for comprehensive documentation, detailed pharmacokinetic studies, and residue analysis to comply with withdrawal periods adds to the complexity and cost of development.

Differences in regulatory requirements across countries further complicate global market entry. A product approved in one region may require additional trials or modifications to meet the standards of another, delaying commercialization and limiting immediate market access. These challenges are compounded for small and medium-sized enterprises that lack the resources to navigate complex regulatory pathways efficiently. Companies also face increased scrutiny regarding antimicrobial resistance, environmental impact, and safety for food-producing animals, which can lead to delays or even denial of approvals. The combination of lengthy approval timelines, high compliance costs, and varying international standards places significant pressure on manufacturers, reducing incentives for investment in innovative anti-infectives. Addressing these regulatory challenges requires strategic planning, collaboration with regulatory consultants, and early engagement with authorities to streamline approvals. The rigorous compliance landscape remains a major barrier for the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, influencing product development strategies and market growth.

Key Market Trends

Expansion of Prescription-Based Channels and Digital Sales

A key trend in the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market is the expansion of prescription-based channels and digital sales, which is reshaping how veterinary medicines are accessed and distributed. Increasing regulatory oversight on antimicrobial usage, aimed at combating antimicrobial resistance, has led many countries to restrict the availability of certain anti-infective drugs over the counter, prompting a shift toward prescription-only access. This transition ensures more controlled and responsible usage of antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungal medications, while improving adherence to dosage guidelines and reducing the risk of resistance development. Prescription-based channels also allow veterinarians to play a more active role in disease management, guiding producers and pet owners on the appropriate choice of therapy and monitoring treatment outcomes.

Simultaneously, digital sales platforms and e-commerce solutions are expanding the reach of veterinary anti-infectives to both urban and rural markets. Online pharmacies and veterinary supply platforms provide convenient access to a broad portfolio of medicines, particularly for farmers managing large herds or flocks where timely procurement is essential. Integration of digital tools with prescription channels enables better tracking of drug usage, inventory management, and compliance with veterinary guidelines. Telemedicine and virtual consultation services are also gaining traction, allowing veterinarians to diagnose, prescribe, and monitor treatments remotely, which is especially valuable in regions with limited veterinary infrastructure. The combination of stricter prescription regulations and the convenience of digital sales channels is transforming the market landscape, enhancing accessibility, supporting antibiotic stewardship programs, and encouraging data-driven decision-making in veterinary healthcare. This trend is expected to continue shaping the adoption and distribution of anti-infectives across livestock and companion animal segments globally.

Rise of Companion Animal Segment and Pet Humanization

A significant trend shaping the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market is the rise of the companion animal segment and the growing phenomenon of pet humanization. Pet ownership is increasing worldwide, driven by urbanization, higher disposable incomes, and changing lifestyles that emphasize emotional well-being and companionship. This shift has led to greater attention to the health and welfare of pets, with owners seeking advanced veterinary care to prevent and treat infections. Veterinary anti-infectives for companion animals, including dogs, cats, and exotic pets, are witnessing higher demand as owners prioritize timely interventions against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. The focus on preventive healthcare, regular check-ups, and vaccination programs has expanded the market for antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungal medications in this segment.

Pet humanization has also influenced product innovation and the development of premium formulations tailored to small animals. Pharmaceutical companies are introducing palatable, easy-to-administer, and targeted anti-infective solutions to enhance compliance and treatment outcomes. The emotional bond between pet owners and their animals encourages investments in high-quality therapies, creating opportunities for specialized and combination treatments that address multiple infections simultaneously. Digital platforms and telemedicine services are further supporting this trend by providing easy access to veterinary consultations, prescriptions, and follow-up care. Rising awareness about antimicrobial resistance and safe drug usage has led veterinarians and owners to adopt more responsible approaches, emphasizing accurate dosing and monitored treatment regimens. The combination of increasing pet ownership, enhanced focus on pet health, and the demand for sophisticated, humanized veterinary care is driving sustained growth in the companion animal segment, making it a key trend in the global veterinary anti-infectives market.

Segmental Insights

Animal Type Insights

Based on the Animal Type, Livestock Animal emerged as the dominant segment in the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market in 2024. This is due to their critical role in global food production and the rising need to safeguard animal health in commercial farming. The increasing demand for meat, milk, and other animal-derived products has led to a higher emphasis on disease prevention and treatment, driving the adoption of anti-infective products. Livestock are more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections due to intensive farming practices, overcrowded facilities, and cross-contamination risks, which makes the use of veterinary anti-infectives indispensable. Producers are investing heavily in advanced therapeutics to minimize losses from disease outbreaks and ensure food safety for consumers. Furthermore, growing concerns regarding zoonotic diseases have accelerated the focus on maintaining livestock health to protect both animal and human populations.

Route of Administration Insights

Based on the Route of Administration, Oral emerged as the dominant segment in the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market in 2024. This dominance is driven by its ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for large-scale livestock and poultry operations. Oral administration, through feed or drinking water, allows for the simultaneous treatment of large groups of animals, making it highly practical for commercial farming where individual dosing can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. This route ensures efficient drug delivery and consistent dosing across entire herds or flocks, reducing the risk of under-treatment or missed doses, which is critical in managing infectious diseases. The rising prevalence of bacterial and viral infections in both livestock and poultry has further strengthened reliance on oral anti-infectives. Continuous advancements in water-soluble formulations and feed additives have improved drug stability, absorption, and palatability, encouraging wider adoption. Producers prefer oral administration as it minimizes stress on animals compared to injectable methods, ensuring better compliance and welfare.

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Regional Insights

North America emerged as the dominant region in the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market in 2024. This is primarily supported by its advanced veterinary healthcare infrastructure, strong regulatory framework, and extensive livestock industry. The region’s large-scale commercial farming operations, particularly in the United States and Canada, have created consistent demand for anti-infective solutions to manage and prevent bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections in both livestock and companion animals. The high prevalence of respiratory, enteric, and skin infections in cattle, swine, and poultry has further accelerated the adoption of veterinary anti-infectives, ensuring animal health and productivity. The presence of leading pharmaceutical companies, such as Zoetis, Elanco, and Merck Animal Health, has also reinforced North America’s dominance, as these players continuously invest in R&D to introduce novel formulations, vaccines, and alternatives to antibiotics.

Recent Developments

• In February 2025, Elanco introduced Pradalex, an innovative injectable antibiotic designed for bovine and swine respiratory diseases, representing the first new FDA-approved molecule for BRD and SRD in nearly two decades. The product is formulated as a single-dose, low-volume solution that ensures rapid bacterial clearance, broad pathogen coverage, and a favorable withdrawal period, providing U.S. livestock producers with advanced therapeutic flexibility to address evolving disease management challenges.
• In January 2025, Veterinary Pharmaceutical Solutions launched UltrAmox, a patent-pending, water-soluble amoxicillin formulation specifically developed for swine and poultry. The product retains more than 90% potency for up to 24 hours when correctly mixed, a feature that enables producers to optimize dosing strategies, potentially reduce antibiotic usage across the production cycle, and enhance antibiotic stewardship practices.
• In January 2025, the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe initiated the Alternatives to Veterinary Antibiotics (AVANT) project, aiming to curb antimicrobial reliance in livestock production. The initiative is focused on developing effective non-antibiotic therapies, enhancing animal health outcomes, and supporting sustainable farming models, thereby aligning with global efforts to mitigate antimicrobial resistance.
• In January 2025, Revelation Pharma launched Revelation Animal Health, a nationwide veterinary compounding division dedicated to customized therapies for companion and production animals. The new business arm strengthens accessibility to tailored, high-quality compounded medications, positioning Revelation as a leader in specialized veterinary pharmaceutical solutions and expanding its presence in the growing compounding market.
• In May 2024, Virbac finalized the acquisition of Sasaeah to reinforce its leadership in the veterinary antibiotics space, particularly in the cattle segment. The deal provides Virbac with enhanced manufacturing and R&D capabilities in Japan and Vietnam, strengthening its innovation pipeline and market reach.
• In March 2024, Zoetis expanded its operational footprint in Australia by acquiring a 21-acre manufacturing facility in Melbourne. The site will be used to scale vaccine production for both livestock and companion animals, meeting rising demand for preventive health solutions.
• In April 2024, Norbrook Laboratories doubled the production capacity at its U.S. facility, a strategic move aimed at meeting growing global demand for veterinary pharmaceuticals and ensuring consistent supply of high-quality veterinary drug formulations.

Key Market Players

• Zoetis Inc.
• Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health GmbH
• Merck & Co., Inc.
• Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC
• Elanco Animal Health Incorporated
• Ceva Santé Animale S.A.
• Virbac S.A.
• Biogénesis Bagó S.A.
• Vetoquinol S.A.
• Norbrook Laboratories Limited

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, By Animal Type:

o   Livestock Animal

o   Companion Animal

• Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, By Product:

o   Antimicrobial

o   Antifungals

o   Antivirals

o   Antiparasitic

o   Others

• Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, By Route of Administration:

o   Oral

o   Injectable

o   Topical

• Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, By Distribution Channel:

o   Hospital/ Clinic Pharmacy

o   Retail Pharmacies

o   E-commerce

• Veterinary Anti-infectives Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Veterinary Anti-infectives Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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