Overview
On 4 August 2026, Royal Canin India issued a press release announcing a nationwide 360‑degree brand campaign titled “Love is #1 ingredient but your puppy and kitten need 35+ essential nutrients more.” The campaign aims to raise awareness that 95 % of home‑cooked meals for pets are nutritionally incomplete, providing only 10‑15 essential nutrients, whereas growing puppies and kittens require more than 35 nutrients—including omega‑3 DHA, vitamins C and E, lutein and taurine—to support healthy growth, immune development and cognitive function. The release notes that nearly 80 % of a pet’s brain development occurs in the first four months and about 80 % of the immune system forms in the first year, underscoring the importance of precise nutrition and early veterinary care.
Market Context
Current adoption of packaged pet food in India is below 15 %, indicating that the majority of puppies and kittens are still primarily fed home‑cooked meals. Royal Canin positions itself as the No. 1 brand recommended by veterinarians, backed by more than 55 years of experience in pet health and nutrition.
Campaign Elements
The initiative includes a brand film distributed on digital and social platforms and a digital outreach program that directs pet owners to veterinary clinics participating in Royal Canin’s Paediatric Veterinary Care Program. Through this program, new pet owners can schedule a free or discounted first veterinary visit, receiving expert guidance on nutrition, growth and preventive health.
Partnerships and Statements
Royal Canin has partnered with veterinarians across India under the Paediatric Care Program to encourage early veterinary consultations. Satinder Singh, Managing Director of Royal Canin India, stated that while love is the primary ingredient in a pet’s diet, precise nutrition is essential to ensure a quality life for puppies and kittens, especially during the start‑of‑life stage.
About Royal Canin and Mars
Royal Canin is a division of Mars, Incorporated, operating in over 120 markets with more than 8,000 associates, including over 400 veterinarians and nutritionists. The company runs 16 factories, two pet centres, one innovation centre and seven laboratories within the Mars network. Mars, Incorporated is a $50 billion family‑owned business with a portfolio that includes pet‑care brands such as Pedigree, Whiskas and others, as well as food and confectionery brands.