Archive · 22 Jan 2026
Pet Care Startups Use Subscriptions to Compete with FMCG Giants
Pet care startups in India are using subscription models to keep their customers coming back.
This helps them compete with big companies that sell lots of different products.
Subscriptions make it easy for pet owners to get regular supplies of food and treats for their pets without having to order them every time.
This is especially helpful for things that pets need every day, like food.
Big companies are also getting into the pet care market, making it more competitive.
Some experts think subscriptions will help smaller brands in the long run, while others are not so sure.
Overall, subscriptions are becoming an important way for pet care brands to build a loyal customer base.
D2C pet care brands are using subscription models to drive predictable demand and compete with FMCG giants.
Subscriptions offer convenience and predictability for pet owners, ensuring continuity and better value.
India's pet care market is growing rapidly, with projections reaching ₹35,000 crore by 2026.
Subscription models are gaining traction for pet grooming kits, treats, and monthly toy boxes.
Experts have mixed views on the viability of subscriptions, with some seeing it as a long-term strategic lever and others being skeptical.
- Who
- Direct-to-consumer (D2C) pet care brands and FMCG giants
- What
- Adoption of subscription models to retain customers and compete in the pet care market
- When
- Current trends and future projections for 2026
- Where
- India
- Why
- To drive predictable demand, ensure continuity, and offer better value through bundled or recurring orders
- Subscription Model Effectiveness
- 40% of Smylo's repeat customers use subscriptions
- Smylo Valuation
- ₹75 crore
- Pet Care Market Growth (2023-2025)
- From $690.5 million to $884.4 million
- Projected Market Size in India (2026)
- ₹35,000 crore
- Subscription Model Adoption
- Gaining traction for grooming kits, treats, and toy boxes
- Pets of Paradise Subscription Contribution
- Less than 10% of customer base, low single-digit revenue
- Muttley Crew Subscription Approach
- Value-led, no lock-in, flexible cancellation