The India veterinary medicine market size was estimated at USD 1.73 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 4.17 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 10.23% from 2025 to 2033. The market is experiencing growth due to rising awareness about the importance of animal healthcare, a growing number of animal disease outbreaks, and increasing demand for animal-derived protein. Additionally, new product launches, advancements in veterinary medicine, and strong regulatory support contribute to this growth. Government initiatives in India, such as the National Programme for Dairy Development, the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, and the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund, are also key in driving market expansion.
Moreover, in 2024, India ramped up efforts to increase milk production through strategic public-private partnerships, which have notably influenced the country’s veterinary medicine market. In collaboration with private stakeholders, the government introduced several initiatives to strengthen dairy infrastructure and boost productivity. For example, as reported by EGNIOL in February 2024, one key initiative is the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF)-a ₹15,000 crore (USD 1,718.07 million) fund designed to attract private sector investment in areas such as dairy plants, meat processing units, and animal feed facilities. This program aims to support Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and individual entrepreneurs engaged in the animal husbandry sector.
Similarly, the Indian government has been actively promoting the development of the veterinary medicine market through various initiatives. One of these initiatives includes establishing the National Animal Disease Control Program (NADCP), which aims to control and eradicate major animal diseases in the country. Additionally, the government has launched several schemes to encourage the use of modern veterinary practices and technologies, driving market growth. For instance, in June 2023, the Indian government launched the Nandi portal, a tool developed by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization and in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) to streamline the regulatory approval process for veterinary products, aiming to enhance transparency and efficiency in assessing and examining proposals for veterinary drugs and vaccines.
India’s vast livestock population of over 536 million, the largest globally, combined with the heavy dependence of nearly 70% of rural households on animals for livelihood, food security, and income, creates a strong foundation for sustained demand in the veterinary medicine market. Government initiatives such as the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP) significantly amplify this demand. As reported by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying in April 2025, massive vaccine deployment-114.56 crore FMD doses and 4.57 crore Brucellosis doses reflects the scale of national efforts to curb endemic diseases. The NADCP’s dual goals of controlling Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) by 2025 and eradicating it 2030 through regular immunization directly stimulate demand for vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutic veterinary products. These large-scale disease eradication programs increase public and private investments, improve supply chain infrastructure, and create long-term opportunities for pharmaceutical companies and service providers. Consequently, the emphasis on preventive healthcare and mass vaccination is a key driver accelerating growth in India's veterinary medicine market.
The India veterinary medicine market exhibits a high market concentration, and the pace of the market growth is accelerating. Innovation in animal treatments, including new procedures and drugs, is driven by ongoing research & collaboration between various organizations, regulatory frameworks, and the evolving needs of animal owners and veterinary communities. New advancements in veterinary medicine are anticipated to improve the standard of animal care as technological and scientific progress.
The degree of innovation in India’s veterinary medicine market is moderate but rapidly advancing, driven by a growing focus on preventive care, government-backed programs, and increasing demand for livestock and companion animal health solutions. Innovations are emerging in vaccine development, such as thermostable and needle-free formulations for large-scale immunization under initiatives like the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP).
The level of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in India’s veterinary medicine market is coderate, with increasing activity in recent years as companies seek to expand their product portfolios, strengthen distribution networks, and enhance research capabilities. Domestic pharmaceutical firms are acquiring or partnering with smaller players to access innovative veterinary formulations, biologicals, and region-specific treatments, while global animal health companies are entering the Indian market through strategic collaborations or acquisitions to tap into the country’s large livestock base and growing pet population.
Regulation significantly shapes the growth, safety, and innovation in India’s veterinary medicine market. Strict guidelines set by regulatory bodies such as the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying ensure the quality, efficacy, and safety of veterinary drugs and biologicals. These regulations help maintain public and animal health by controlling the use of antibiotics, preventing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and ensuring ethical veterinary practices.
There are a limited number of direct product substitutes for veterinary medicine. However, one alternative that has gained popularity is holistic veterinary care. It offers a different perspective than traditional veterinary medicine by emphasizing preventive measures and natural treatments. This approach often involves alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal medicine, and nutritional supplements. While it may not completely replace traditional veterinary medicine, holistic care can complement or substitute for specific conditions or individuals who prefer a more natural approach to animal health.
End user concentration is a significant factor in the India veterinary medicine market since several end-user industries are driving demand for veterinary medicine. The market caters to diverse end users, including pet owners, livestock producers, veterinary hospitals, clinics, and research institutions.
The injectable segment dominated the market with a revenue share of around 49% in 2024. This segment includes drugs administered via intramuscular, intravenous & subcutaneous routes. Injectable medications route offer sustained-release formulations, providing prolonged therapeutic effects compared to other dosage forms like oral medications. This extended duration of action can be beneficial in certain treatment scenarios. The benefits of the injectable route and the availability of numerous injectable medicines are key factors driving the market growth. In May 2023, Zoetis received FDA clearance for Librela-its injectable anti-nerve growth factor (NGF) monoclonal antibody (mAb) for osteoarthritic dogs.
Other routes of administration include controlled-release implants and inhalational routes. This segment is predicted to grow fastest from 2025 to 2033. Introducing controlled-release implants and inhalational routes enhances treatment efficiency by ensuring sustained drug delivery and improved compliance. These advanced routes reduce dosing frequency, minimizing animal stress and labor costs for handlers. Inhalational therapies offer a faster onset of action, particularly for respiratory conditions. Such innovations improve therapeutic outcomes and broaden treatment options. They drive demand for premium, targeted veterinary products, boosting market growth.
The pharmaceuticals segment dominated the market with a revenue share of over 68% in 2024. This can be attributed to increasing animal health expenditure, product portfolio expansion, R&D activities, and new product launches by key companies. Pharmaceuticals primarily include anti-infective, anti-inflammatory drugs, parasiticides, and other drugs. For instance, in December 2023, KVM Research Labs, a manufacturer and exporter of Ayurvedic products since 1988, launched the Mruga Ayurveda division of veterinary Ayurvedic products to address the impact of anti-microbial resistance on cattle and domesticated pets, and the reduced lifespan of dogs due to overuse of antibiotics.
The biologics segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 11.2% from 2025 to 2033. The rising prevalence of diseases in animals and the risk caused to humans propel the segment’s growth. Zoonotic conditions constitute a worldwide health risk caused by intricate interactions between animals, humans, and the environment. More than 1,400 different infectious agent species are harmful to humans. According to the report by the World Health Organization, 36% of rabies-related fatalities worldwide occur in India. Additionally, India is also responsible for 65% of the rabies-related deaths in South-East Asia. The National Rabies Control Program documented 6644 clinically suspected cases and deaths of human rabies throughout 2012 and 2022.
The production animal segment accounted for the largest revenue share, around 60%, in 2024. With a growing population and rising disposable incomes, there is an increasing demand for meat, dairy, and other animal-derived products in India. According to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, India is ranked first in milk production, contributing 24.64% of global milk production. This has led to a greater focus on improving the health and productivity of production animals through the use of veterinary medicines.
Moreover, the Indian government has promoted animal husbandry and agriculture through various initiatives and schemes. These initiatives aim to improve the livestock sector's overall productivity and efficiency, including providing access to quality veterinary medicines for production animals. For instance, The Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) is a scheme to develop and conserve indigenous bovine breeds. It aims to boost milk production and productivity by fulfilling the rising demand and making dairying more profitable for rural farmers. The scheme is continued under the name Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojna.
The companion animal segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 12.1% from 2025 to 2033, owing to increasing pet ownership, pet expenditure, pet humanization, and awareness about pet health & nutrition. Pets, especially dogs, are becoming common in urban Indian households, providing companionship and emotional support to their owners. They have become an integral part of many households in India, leading to a rising demand for companion animal segments and awareness regarding veterinary medicines for their safety and well-being.
The veterinary hospitals & clinics segment had the largest revenue share in 2024. This can be attributed to the availability of a wide range of healthcare services, including routine check-ups, surgeries, vaccinations, and specialized treatments. This comprehensive approach attracts many pet owners and livestock farmers, contributing significantly to the segment’s revenue share. Veterinary clinics and hospitals also develop strong relationships with pet owners or breeders. This promotes trust & communication by creating an environment where the client can follow the prescribed treatment plan.
The e-commerce segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 11.48% during the forecast period. E-commerce platforms are convenient for pet owners and veterinarians as they offer a wide range of veterinary medicines in one place. India's digitization trend has led to an increase in the acceptance of online shopping in various sectors, including healthcare. As more and more consumers adapt to doing business online, the demand for veterinary medicines through electronic channels is expected to increase.
The India veterinary medicine market is driven by multiple factors, including the country's massive livestock base, which plays a vital role in supporting rural economies through dairy, poultry, and meat production. Government-led programs, such as livestock health and productivity schemes, promote regular disease surveillance and vaccination drives, increasing the demand for veterinary drugs and biologics. Urbanization and changing lifestyles are accelerating pet adoption, leading to rising demand for preventive and therapeutic care for companion animals, including dewormers, pain relief, and skin treatments. Increasing awareness about animal health and productivity among farmers drives using feed additives and nutritional supplements. Furthermore, initiatives like startup incentives and infrastructure development in animal husbandry attract private investments and foster innovation in veterinary pharmaceuticals and diagnostics.
The competitive market of India veterinary medicines is dominated by numerous small and large companies offering a diverse range of products across various segments and target species. These players are implementing initiatives such as R&D, mergers, collaborations, and partnerships. Some of the key players operating in the market include Zoetis Inc.; Ceva Santé Animale; Virbac; and Boehringer Ingelheim International Gmbh.
In November 2023, Virbac acquired a majority stake in Globion, a leading Indian poultry vaccines company. This strengthened the company’s position as a leading animal health player in the Indian poultry vaccines market by extending Virbac India’s poultry portfolio.
In April 2024, Boehringer Ingelheim launched NexGard SPECTRA in India following CDSCO approval, expanding its NexGard range. This monthly chewable combines afoxolaner and milbemycin oxime to offer broad-spectrum protection against fleas, ticks, mites, heartworms, lungworms, eyeworms, and intestinal parasites. Designed for dogs over 2 months and 2 kg, the product delivers rapid, effective treatment with convenience and high compliance.
In August 2023, Merck Animal Health introduced INNOVAX-ILT-IBD, a dual-construct HVT vaccine offering long-lasting protection against infectious laryngotracheitis, bursal disease, and Marek’s disease, recently receiving approval from the European Commission.
Report Attribute |
Details |
Market size in 2025 |
USD 1.91 billion |
Revenue forecast in 2033 |
USD 4.17 billion |
Growth rate |
CAGR of 10.23% from 2025 to 2033 |
Historical period |
2021 - 2023 |
Actual data |
2024 |
Forecast period |
2025 - 2033 |
Quantitative units |
Revenue in USD million/billion and CAGR from 2025 to 2033 |
Report coverage |
Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
Segments covered |
Product, animal type, route of administration, distribution channel |
Key companies profiled |
Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH; Zoetis; IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.; Merck & Co., Inc.; Elanco; Hester Biosciences Limited; Ceva Santé Animale; Phibro Animal Health Corporation; Virbac; Dechra Pharmaceuticals Plc |
Customization scope |
Free report customization (equivalent to 8 analysts working days) with purchase. Addition or alteration to segment scope. |
Pricing and purchase options |
Avail customized purchase options to meet your exact research needs. Explore purchase options |
This report forecasts revenue growth provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the India veterinary medicine market report based on product, animal type, route of administration, and distribution channel:
Animal Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Production Animals
Poultry
Pigs
Cattle
Sheep & Goats
Others
Companion Animals
Dogs
Cats
Horses
Others
Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Biologics
Vaccines
Modified/ Attenuated Live
Inactivated (Killed)
Other Vaccines
Other Biologics
Pharmaceuticals
Parasiticides
Anti-infectives
Anti-inflammatory
Analgesics
Others
Medicated Feed Additives
Route of Administration Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Oral
Injectable
Topical
Others
Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Veterinary Hospitals & Clinics
E-commerce
Offline Retail Stores
Others
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