Table of Contents
Overview
New York, NY – May 23, 2025 – Global Pet Mobility Aids Market size is expected to be worth around US$ 3.6 Billion by 2033 from US$ 1.9 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.
The global pet mobility aids market is witnessing consistent expansion, driven by growing pet adoption rates, increasing awareness of animal welfare, and the rising incidence of age-related and congenital mobility issues among companion animals. Pet mobility aids including wheelchairs, harnesses, ramps, and slings are being widely adopted to enhance the quality of life for aging pets and animals recovering from injury or surgery.
As more pet owners view their animals as family members, there is a rising willingness to invest in advanced veterinary care and assistive technologies. Veterinary professionals are also increasingly recommending mobility support products to manage arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other degenerative conditions, particularly in dogs and cats.
Technological advancements in materials and product designs such as lightweight frames, adjustable features, and orthopedic-grade supports are further contributing to market growth. Online retail platforms and specialty pet stores are expanding access to these products, especially in developed regions. North America holds the largest share of the market due to high pet ownership, supportive veterinary infrastructure, and robust consumer spending. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific is projected to witness the fastest growth owing to a rise in disposable income and increasing awareness of animal health.
Key Takeaways
- In 2024, the global pet mobility aids market was valued at USD 1.9 billion and is projected to reach approximately USD 3.6 billion by 2033, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% during the forecast period.
- The dogs segment dominated the market in 2024, accounting for 37% of the total revenue share, driven by high ownership rates and increased veterinary care for aging and disabled canines.
- Among product types, the wheelchairs segment emerged as the leading category, contributing 34% of the global revenue share in 2024 due to growing demand for mobility solutions for pets with severe mobility impairments.
- North America retained its dominant position in the global market, capturing over 38% of the total revenue in 2024, supported by a well-established pet care industry, high consumer awareness, and strong veterinary healthcare infrastructure.
Segmentation Analysis
- Pet Type Analysis: The pet mobility aids market is segmented into dogs, cats, and others. In 2024, the dogs segment led the market, capturing 53% of the global revenue. This dominance is driven by the high prevalence of mobility-related issues in dogs, such as arthritis and hip dysplasia, especially among aging and large breeds. Increased pet humanization and willingness of dog owners to invest in mobility solutions supported by advanced, customizable designs are further fueling market demand for dog-specific mobility aids.
- Product Analysis: By product, the market is segmented into wheelchairs, splints & braces, ramps & steps, prosthetics, and others. Wheelchairs held the largest share in 2024, accounting for 49% of global revenue. Their effectiveness in aiding pets with paralysis or severe mobility issues makes them a preferred choice. Technological innovations such as lightweight materials and adjustable frames have improved usability. Growing awareness of animal rehabilitation and efforts by manufacturers to enhance pet mobility continue to drive demand for wheelchairs.
- Distribution Channel Analysis: The distribution channel segment includes retail stores, e-commerce, and veterinary hospitals & clinics. Retail stores dominated in 2024, accounting for 56% of global sales. Their advantage lies in providing immediate access to products and hands-on evaluations. Pet owners value in-store expert guidance and promotional offers. Retail chains and specialty stores cater to a wide range of pet mobility needs, and their strategic urban locations make them a convenient and trusted choice for purchasing mobility aids.
Market Segments
By Pet Type
- Dogs
- Cats
- Others
By Product
- Wheelchairs
- Splints & Braces
- Ramps & Steps
- Prosthetics
- Others
By Distribution Channel
- Retail Stores
- E-commerce
- Veterinary Hospitals & Clinics
Regional Analysis
North America accounted for a substantial 42% share of the global pet mobility aids market in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the region’s advanced veterinary care infrastructure, supportive regulatory environment, and growing investment in pet health innovations. The increasing humanization of pets, where animals are regarded as family members, continues to drive demand for mobility aids that improve comfort and quality of life.
Data from the American Pet Products Association (August 2024) shows that 31% of cat owners use leashes and 23% use harnesses, indicating a rising trend in the adoption of mobility products for outdoor activities. This marks a significant increase from 2018, underscoring North America’s expanding focus on pet wellness and its contribution to market growth.
Emerging Trends
- The growth of mobility aid use can be attributed to an aging pet population, with osteoarthritis affecting an estimated 20% of dogs over one year of age and up to 80% of dogs older than eight years, based on clinical and radiographic data.
- Veterinary care spending has risen, supporting wider adoption of assistive devices; average annual spending on veterinary care per dog-owning household in the U.S. reached US$580 in 2024.
- The development of custom, 3D-printed wheelchairs and braces has increased; for example, a seven-month treatment regimen for a severely injured cat included a bespoke 3D-printed wheelchair to restore mobility.
- Rehabilitation services integrating aquatic therapy have expanded markedly, with over 500 underwater treadmills now in use for canine therapy across the country.
Use Cases
- Osteoarthritis Management: Mobility carts and harnesses are being prescribed to approximately 20–80% of dogs diagnosed with osteoarthritis to reduce joint stress and improve daily activity levels.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: Following orthopedic procedures (e.g., cruciate ligament repair), pets are supported with wheeled carts and slings to enable safe, early weight-bearing exercises, reducing muscle atrophy.
- Spinal Injury Support: Paraplegic or partially paralyzed pets receive specially designed wheelchairs to restore ambulatory function; these devices have prevented unnecessary euthanasia in many cases.
- Senior Pet Quality of Life: Adjustable harnesses and mobility carts help older dogs maintain exercise routines, assisting in weight management and slowing further joint degeneration.
- Rehabilitation and Conditioning: Devices such as underwater treadmills (over 500 installations nationwide) are paired with mobility aids to improve muscle strength and cardiovascular health in pets recovering from injury.
Conclusion
The global pet mobility aids market is on a strong growth trajectory, supported by increasing pet ownership, rising awareness of animal welfare, and technological advancements in assistive products. Dogs remain the primary users, with wheelchairs leading product adoption. North America continues to dominate due to its robust pet care ecosystem, while Asia-Pacific shows promising growth.
Innovations such as 3D-printed devices and integrated rehabilitation therapies are enhancing pet mobility and quality of life. As veterinary care spending rises and pet humanization intensifies, the market is expected to witness sustained demand for advanced, compassionate mobility solutions over the coming decade.
Discuss your needs with our analyst
Please share your requirements with more details so our analyst can check if they can solve your problem(s)
