In 2025, being a pet owner in Thailand feels a lot like being a parent. A very chill, leash-carrying, toy-hoarding, subscription-box-subscribing parent. You can see it everywhere. Rooftop dog parks in condos and cat cafes that offer oat milk for both you and your feline. Airlines announcing pet-on-board seats like it’s a feature, not a favor. It’s not just a lifestyle anymore; it’s a big, growing market. Thailand’s pet care industry is now worth up to US$1.5 billion, growing at about 8-10% annually. That’s faster than many human categories. Six in 10 urban pet owners prioritize their animals’ needs over their own, showing a shift in emotional spending with real power. According to TGM Research, 53% of Thai pet owners consider their pets as family members, transforming the landscape of pet ownership across the country and the world.
Dogs still dominate among single-pet households at 52%, but in multi-pet homes, cats are more prevalent, showcasing a change in preferences. The rising demand for quality in pet food indicates a significant shift toward longevity and health benefits, with brands like Royal Canin gaining on staples like Pedigree and SmartHeart. Developers are also accommodating pet owners by adding amenities like washing stations and pet-friendly zones in new condos. Although challenges remain for pet owners outside Bangkok, the trend of treating pets as integral family members continues to reshape Thailand’s culture. For businesses, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity to include pets in their services or risk losing a substantial customer base.