Veterinary Pain Management Market - By Product, By Application, By Animal Type - Global Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Veterinary Pain Management Market Size

The global veterinary pain management market size was estimated at USD 2.2 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 2.3 billion in 2025 to USD 4.1 billion in 2034, at a CAGR of 6.5%.
 

The significant growth of this market is due to the increasing pet adoption and growing trend of pet humanization, and increased awareness about animal healthcare among pet owners. For instance, as per the 2024 Global Pet Parent Study, it was estimated that the pet population around the world is around 1 billion This growing pet population and stronger human-animal bond have made pet owners more willing to spend on their pets. The American Pet Products Association (APPA) reported that U.S. pet owners spent USD 150.6 billion on pets in 2024, compared to USD 147.0 billion in 2023, showing a growth rate of 2.4%.
 

The demand for veterinary pain management solutions is also rising due to the increasing cases of chronic diseases like arthritis, cancer, and joint pain, along with more veterinary surgical procedures. Livestock animals also play an important role in the growth of the veterinary pain management market. The rising consumption of animal-based products like meat, milk, and eggs has increased the demand in the livestock industry. As a result, livestock producers are focusing more on their animals’ health to maintain high productivity, which has boosted the market. Additionally, the availability of veterinary pain management drugs online, the expansion of veterinary hospitals and clinics, and the rise of telemedicine have further supported market growth.
 

Veterinary pain management encompasses the use of drugs and devices to alleviate pain in animals including companion and livestock animals.  These include drugs like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and anesthesia. These solutions help reduce inflammation and improve the well-being of animals suffering from acute and chronic pain.
 

Veterinary Pain Management Market Trends

• The increasing adoption of pet insurance is one of the key trends shaping the growth of market. For instance, according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), in 2023, around 6.25 million pets were insured across North America. Thus, this trend supports pet owners to explore advanced pain management therapies, reducing the financial burden on pet owners.
   
• Additionally, increasing awareness campaigns with a special focus on animal health is another significant trend. These campaigns help pet owners recognize the signs of pain in animals, ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.
   
• For example, initiatives like Animal Pain Awareness Month aim to improve pet health by raising awareness about the pain animals experience. These initiatives help identify pain and choose effective treatments. They support animals’ physical activity and comfort, contributing to the growth of this market.
   
• Moreover, the technological advancement in veterinary medicine allows for better diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of the pain in animals.
   
• Furthermore, the growing prevalence of pain has driven market growth. For instance, North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) 2022, more than 45 million pets experience chronic or acute pain. Further it states, chronic pain is significantly affecting companion animals, leading to mobility issues and even behavioral issues like aggression. Thus, this demands the need for effective pain treatment products including drugs and devices.
   
• The regulatory authorities are further implementing stringent regulations on veterinary pain management in order to relieve pain during medical procedures.
   
• These trends are enhancing the availability and accessibility of various pain management solutions and are further encouraging the pharmaceutical companies to develop innovative products in the market.
   

Veterinary Pain Management Market Analysis

In 2021, the global market was valued at USD 1.9 billion. The following year, it saw a slight increase to USD 2 billion, and by 2023, the market further climbed to USD 2.1 billion. Based on the product, the global market is segmented into drugs and devices. The drugs segment accounted for highest market share of 85.4% in 2024. The drug segment is further classified on the basis of type, route of administration, and distribution channel. Based on type the drugs segment is sub-segmented into NSAIDs, opioids, anesthetics, alpha-2 agonists, and other types. Based on route of administration, the drugs segment is sub-segmented into oral, parenteral, and topical. Further based on distribution channel, the drugs segment is sub-segmented into veterinary hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies.
 

• The largest share of the drug segment is primarily due to its widespread availability and the convenience it offers, making it a preferred choice for managing pain and discomfort.
   
• Additionally, the long history of the efficacy of drugs, such as NSAIDs and opioids, has established their reliability and effectiveness, further contributing to the growth of the drug segment.
   
• The increased use of pain management drugs for treating pain driven from the rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis, joint disease, and cancer, further solidifies the growth.
   
• Furthermore, advancements in drug formulations have improved dosage frequency, ensured faster action, and enhanced the palatability of drugs, making them more appealing and driving their widespread adoption.
   

Based on the application, the global veterinary pain management market is categorized into joint pain, cancer pain, postoperative pain, and other applications. The joint pain segment in 2024 accounted for the largest share of 53.7% in the market. This segment was valued at USD 1.2 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.1 by 2034 with a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. The joint pain segment is further sub-segmented into osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal.
 

• According to Companion Animal Health, nearly 80% of lameness and joint disease cases are due to osteoarthritis in companion animals. The increasing obesity and aging pet population are causing a rise in the prevalence of osteoarthritis, which is driving the growth of this segment.
   
• Additionally, the availability of advanced veterinary treatments, such as disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs and other anti-inflammatory drugs for joint pain, has supported the growth of this segment.
   

Based on animal type, the veterinary pain management market is classified into companion animals and livestock animals. The companion animals segment dominated the market in 2024 and is expected to grow at 6.4% CAGR over the analysis period. The companion animals segment is further classified into dogs, cats, horses and other companion animals.
 

• The growing trend of pet adoption and pet humanization is a major factor contributing to the growth of companion animal segment.
   
• This aging pet population is more susceptible to chronic diseases leading to pain, which in turns drives the demand for veterinary pain management drugs. For instance, according to an article published by AniCura, in 2023, 31% of dogs and 33% of cats are classified as senoir pets. Whereas, only 9% of dogs and 10% of cats are classified as puppies and kittens.
   
• Additionally, expanded availability of pet insurance,  coupled with rising veterinary expenditures, has driven the growth of companion animals segment.
   

In 2024, the North America region accounted for the largest share of 43.9% in the veterinary pain management market. The region's strong market share can be attributed to its well-established veterinary healthcare infrastructure, increasing pet adoption rates, high population of livestock, and a growing focus on animal health and wellness.
 

The U.S. market was valued at USD 785.5 million in 2021.  The country dominated the North American market in 2023 with USD 853.6 million growing from USD 817.5 million in 2022.
 

• As of January 2024, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported a livestock population of 87.2 million head of cattle and calves in the U.S. The growing livestock industry creates a big opportunity for the growth of the U.S. market.
   
• Additionally, the growing pet ownership in the U.S. has increased animal health expenditure. For instance, in 2021, the Americans spending on their pet was USD 123.6 billion which raised to USD 150.6 billion in 2024 (Source: APPA). These figures demonstrate an upward trend in pet care spending reflecting a growing need for animal pharmaceuticals including pain management drugs.
   

Germany is anticipated to grow considerably in the European veterinary pain management market in the coming years.
 

• As per the Central Association of Zoological Specialist Companies (ZZF), in 2023, 34.3 million pets including dogs, cats, small animals, and pet birds live in German households. This huge pet population creates a substantial need for animal healthcare products including pain management products.
   
• Additionally, the country has well-established veterinary healthcare infrastructure and continuous research activities to develop new pain management drugs or devices further supports the growth of this market.
   
• Furthermore, with the increasing pet humanization, there is an increasing trend towards preventive care for pets, consequently driving the adoption of pain management drugs.
   

India is expected to experience highest growth in Asia Pacific veterinary pain management market throughout the forecast period.
 

• Owing to the advancement of animal care infrastructure in India, the market is expected to grow significantly. For instance, as per the 2022 Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics from the State/UTs Animal Husbandry Department, there were 12,452 veterinary hospitals and polyclinics.
   
• This growing infrastructure is indicative of increasing awareness about animal healthcare and the need for better veterinary products and services, which in turn fuels demand for animal health products.
   
• Additionally, the growth of veterinary pain management is expected to grow with the rising disposable income in the country. For instance, as per data released by Government of India, the nation’s per capita income grew by 8% in 2024 and 13.3% in 2023.
   

Brazil is projected to see significant growth in the Latin American veterinary pain management market during the analysis period.
 

• The pet ownership is growing across Brazil, thus contributing to the surge in veterinary medicines including pain medications. For instance, in 2022 Brazil had 167.6 million pets, among which 68 million were dogs and 41.3 million were birds as per the Brazilian Association of the Pet Products Industry. With an increase in pet adoption for companionship, there is a corresponding rise in the need for veterinary care, spanning preventive measures, treatments, and diagnostics.
   
• Moreover, improvements in veterinary infrastructure in Latin America, including the expansion of veterinary clinics and diagnostic labs, have facilitated better access to animal healthcare services.
   
• Further, growing regulatory support for safe and effective veterinary practices, alongside the rising popularity of e-commerce for pet and livestock products, is further propelling the market.
   

The veterinary pain management market in Saudi Arabia is poised to showcase notable growth in the Middle East and Africa regional market.
 

• The Saudi Arabia livestock contributes 43% to the agricultural GDP, thus it is an essential component of agricultural industry as per the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
   
• Additionally, the increased dependency on livestock for livelihoods supports the demand for veterinary care which in turn drives the pain management drugs market.
   
• Further, the increased government focus on maintaining food safety and agricultural practices has resulted in growing need for animal health products.
   

Veterinary Pain Management Market Share

The market is highly competitive due to various factors, including innovative technologies, increased demand for effective treatments, and increasing awareness of the importance of pain management. In 2024, top 5 players operating in this market, including Zoetis, Boehringer Ingelheim, Elanco Animal Health Incorporated, Merck, and Ceva Santé Animale command a significant share in 2024. These key players have maintained their positions due to their extensive portfolios, strong brand recognition, and large-scale distribution networks.
 

 These companies are heavily investing in research and development activities in order to introduce novel treatment options to treat chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. Moreover, mergers and acquisitions, partnerships and collaborations further facilitate these players to expand their geographic presence.
 

Furthermore, the market is growing because of increasing global awareness of animal health, the introduction of advanced technologies and new drug formulations. The regulatory requirements for the welfare of animals, growing livestock industry and rising awareness among pet owners significantly influence the growth of these players.
 

Veterinary Pain Management Market Companies

Few of the prominent players operating in the veterinary pain management industry include:

• Alivira Animal Health
• Boehringer Ingelheim
• Ceva Santé Animale
• Chanelle Pharma
• Dechra Pharmaceuticals
• Elanco Animal Health
• K-Laser USA
• Merck
• Multi Radiance Medical
• Norbrook
• Vetoquinol
• Zoetis
   

Zoetis, Inc. is a worldwide animal health business dedicated to enhancing animal health and well-being. It serves clients in over 100 countries by providing a diverse product range that includes medications, vaccinations, diagnostics, genetics, and other cutting-edge solutions. These products address a wide variety of animal medical problems, from disease prevention and treatment to reproductive and general performance. The company's dedication to R&D stimulates innovation in animal healthcare, allowing the launch of novel, effective, and safe treatments. Zoetis also prioritizes customer service, offering veterinarians, farmers, and pet owners’ education, technical help, and other resources.
 

Merck & Co., Inc. is a global healthcare firm that produces prescription medications, vaccines, biologic treatments, and animal health products. The products manufactured by the business are offered in over 150 countries globally. Merck has substantial operations in North America, Europe, and Asia. In addition, the corporation is expanding its presence in emerging nations such as Latin America and Africa. Merck is committed to enhancing animal health and well-being. Merck serves this objective through creating new products and services, educating and training veterinarians and animal owners, and funding animal health research. Also, with their significant investments in R&D, along with product development and launches, the company is diversifying their product offerings to attract a wide consumer based.
 

Veterinary Pain Management Industry News

• In May 2023, Zoetis announced the FDA approval of Librela (bedinvetmab injection) for managing pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. The approval has helped the company to broaden its product range and generate revenue.
   
• In September 2022, Zoetis launched Solensia to manage feline osteoarthritis pain in the U.S. This product launch helped the company to strengthen its position in the companion animal pain management segment.
   
• In April 2022, The U.S. FDA has approved medetomidine and vatinoxan hydrochlorides injection (Zenalpha) by Dechra for use as a sedative and analgesic in dogs, while undergoing certain clinical examination and procedures, and minor surgical procedures.  The approval highlights the company’s commitment to innovation and compliance to regulatory requirements.
   
• In January 2022, Elanco received U.S. FDA approval for Zorbium, a long-acting transdermal buprenorphine for treating cats with pain. This launch helped the company to expand is pain management offerings and gain attention due to a novel drug delivery system thus boosting the revenue growth.
   

The veterinary pain management market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Product

• Drugs
  • By Type
    • NSAIDs
    • Opioids
    • Anesthetics
    • Alpha-2 agonists
    • Other types
  • By Route of Administration
    • Oral
    • Parenteral
    • Topical
  • By Distribution Channel
    • Veterinary hospital pharmacies
    • Retail pharmacies
    • Online pharmacies
• Devices
  • By Type
    • Laser therapy devices
    • Electromagnetic therapy devices
  • By End Use
    • Veterinary hospitals & clinics
    • Academic and research institutes

Market, By Application

• Joint pain
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Musculoskeletal
• Cancer pain
• Postoperative pain
• Other applications

Market, By Animal Type

• Companion animals
  • Dogs
  • Cats
  • Horses
  • Other companion animals
• Livestock animals
  • Cattle
  • Swine
  • Other livestock animals

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE