Pet Care in Portugal

High Pet Ownership Rates Highlight a Significant Market

The research indicates that 72% of respondents in Portugal currently have pets, underscoring a strong market for pet-related products and services. This high rate of pet ownership also reflects the cultural significance of pets in Portuguese households, where they are often considered integral family members.

Dogs and Cats Dominate the Pet Landscape in Portugal

The TGM Global Pet Care Survey 2023 reveals that dogs and cats are the most popular pets among Portuguese respondents. Other pets, such as turtles, fish, and parrots, have a smaller presence. Additionally, 11% of respondents reported owning pets that are not listed in the survey, indicating a variety of pet preferences. This diversity highlights the unique pet culture in Portugal, where traditional pets like dogs and cats are predominant, but there is also room for more niche or unconventional pet choices.

Purina Leads the Pet Food Market in Portugal

Purina and Purina Friskies are the leading pet food brands in Portugal. Other notable brands include Royal Canin, Continente, and Whiskas. Notably, 54.8% of respondents selected "Other/None/DK," suggesting a significant portion of the market is open to new or niche brands. These findings suggest that while established brands dominate the Portuguese pet food market, there are opportunities for lesser-known or specialized brands to gain market share.

Supermarkets are the Preferred Choice for Pet Food Purchases

Supermarkets are the primary retail channel for pet food purchases in Portugal, favored by 65.6% of respondents. Online purchases are the second most popular option, followed by independent pet stores or small pet chains and pet specialty chains. A smaller percentage of respondents (5.8%) make pet food at home. These findings indicate a strong preference for convenience and affordability, with supermarkets being the most accessible and widely used option.

Quality and Price are Key Factors in Pet Food Selection

When selecting pet food, Portuguese pet owners prioritize quality and price, with 74% of respondents citing these as their top considerations. Addressing specific health concerns is also important for more than half of owners, followed by the composition of ingredients and a commitment to sustainability. The country of production (3%) is the least significant factor. This data suggests that Portuguese pet owners seek a balance between nutritional value and cost-effectiveness when choosing pet food.

Veterinarians and Internet are Primary Sources for Pet Care Information

Portuguese pet owners primarily rely on veterinarians (63.3%) and internet searches for pet care information. Other sources include advice from other pet owners and pet stores, while social media and magazines/newspapers are less frequently used. These findings highlight the trust placed in professional expertise and the convenience of online resources for pet care advice in Portugal.