OTC Veterinary Drug Market Projected to Reach $13.6 Billion by 2030 as Pet Ownership and Preventive Care Expand

The global market for over-the-counter veterinary drugs is expected to reach $13.57 billion by 2030, driven by rising pet ownership, growing demand for preventive animal healthcare, and expanding access to veterinary medications through retail and e-commerce channels.
  • The global OTC veterinary drugs market is forecast to grow from $9.7 billion in 2026 to $13.57 billion by 2030.
  • Increasing pet ownership and greater spending on companion animal health are fueling market expansion.
  • Preventive care, nutraceuticals, antiparasitic products, and e-commerce are among the key market trends.
  • North America remains the largest market, while Asia-Pacific is expected to experience the fastest growth.
  • The report cites growing interest in accessible, non-prescription veterinary products for routine animal health management.

The global market for over-the-counter (OTC) veterinary drugs is expected to continue its steady expansion as pet ownership rises and animal owners seek more convenient access to routine healthcare products, according to a new report from The Business Research Company.

The report estimates the market will grow from $8.93 billion in 2025 to $9.7 billion in 2026, before reaching $13.57 billion by 2030, reflecting continued demand for preventive animal healthcare and expanding availability of veterinary products outside traditional prescription channels.

Preventive Care Continues to Drive Growth

OTC veterinary drugs include medications that can be purchased without a veterinary prescription to help prevent or manage common health conditions in companion animals and livestock.

According to the report, increasing pet ownership, expanding livestock populations, improved retail availability of veterinary pharmaceuticals, and greater awareness of animal health have supported recent market growth.

Looking ahead, continued investment in preventive healthcare, increased spending on companion animals, and broader adoption of nutraceuticals and supplements are expected to support further market expansion.

Consumer Trends Shape Product Development

The report identifies several trends influencing the sector, including growing demand for OTC antiparasitic and anti-infective medications, dermatology products for skin and coat health, and nutritional supplements designed to support immune and joint function.

The continued growth of e-commerce is also improving consumer access to veterinary health products, while broad-spectrum OTC formulations are becoming increasingly popular for routine preventive care.

Pet Ownership Expands Market Opportunity

Rising pet ownership remains one of the market’s strongest growth drivers.

The report cites American Pet Products Association data showing that the number of U.S. households owning at least one pet increased from 82 million in 2023 to 94 million, reflecting continued demand for affordable and accessible animal healthcare products.

Regional Outlook

North America accounted for the largest share of the OTC veterinary drugs market in 2025. Asia-Pacific is projected to record the fastest growth over the forecast period as companion animal ownership, livestock production, and veterinary healthcare infrastructure continue to expand.

Information sourced from the company’s market report.

Never Miss an Animal Health Story

Sign up for free to receive the latest veterinary news, product announcements, and industry developments.