Why Is Cat Food So Expensive And What To Do About It

Why Is Cat Food So Expensive and What to Do About It?

Cat owners know that feeding their feline friends can be a costly affair. But why is cat food so expensive, and what can you do to manage these costs without compromising on quality?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors contributing to the high cost of cat food and provide actionable tips to help you save money. 🐱

Understanding the Rising Costs of Cat Food

The price of cat food has seen a significant increase in recent years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the price of pet food increased by 15.1% from January 2022 to January 2023, double the overall inflation rate of 7.5% during the same period.

Inflation and Raw Ingredients

Inflation has caused the cost of raw ingredients like fish, meat, and grains to skyrocket. These ingredients are essential components of pet food, and their increased costs are passed on to consumers.

If you’re interested in understanding more about cat food ingredients, check out our guide on what cat food helps with shedding.

Special Diets and Preferences

More pet owners, particularly younger generations, are opting for healthy and naturally-made ingredients in their pet food. Special diets and high-quality kibble often come with a higher price tag.

A survey found that 69% of millennial pet owners prefer foods with naturally-made ingredients. Learn more about top 10 reasons why your cat should eat raw food.

Shocking Price Increases

Some pet food brands have seen shocking price increases. For example, a 12-pound bag of Merrick cat food increased by 103.8% in just two years, from $21.67 in 2020 to $41.98 in 2022.

Are Companies Price Gouging?

There are concerns that some pet food companies may be taking advantage of inflation to the extent of price gouging. The price increases in feed grade pet foods (which utilize inferior quality ingredients) have been significantly higher than human grade pet foods. This raises questions about the ethics and practices of some pet food manufacturers.

How to Save Money on Cat Food

Despite the rising costs, there are several ways to save money on cat food without compromising on quality.

Subscribe and Save

Many pet retailers offer subscription service discounts on regular shipments. For example, signing up for automatic shipping at chewy.com can get you 35% off the first shipment and 5% off repeat deliveries.

Shop Around and Use Coupons

Spend a few minutes shopping around online and using coupons, codes, and extensions to get the best deals. Websites like Rakuten, Honey, Dosh, Ibotta, BradsDeals.com, and Coupons.com can help you find great discounts.

Buy in Bulk and Focus on Generic Brands

Buying in bulk and opting for generic brands like Costco’s Kirkland can help you save money. Financial planners have noticed more clients buying in bulk to reign in the high price of pet food.

If you’re wondering can you put cat food in the fridge, how to store and keep cat food, we have a guide for that too.

Make Your Own Pet Food

Preparing pet food at home from nutritious table scraps can be economical. Consult with your vet to ensure a balanced diet, and consider using pet-friendly foods and ingredients recommended by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

Seek Financial Assistance

If you’re struggling financially, local animal shelters may provide free or discounted food. Websites like RedRover.com and pethelpfinder.org offer guides on where to seek financial assistance for pet food.

Pet Sharing

Creative solutions like pet sharing can also help in reducing costs. Sharing ownership and expenses with a neighbor or friend can be a win-win situation for both parties and the pet.

FAQ

Why Are Special Diets for Cats More Expensive?

Special diets for cats, such as grain-free, organic, or prescription diets, often require high-quality ingredients and specialized manufacturing processes. These factors contribute to the higher cost.

However, these diets can provide specific health benefits for cats with allergies, digestive issues, or other medical conditions. It’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your cat’s unique needs.

How Can I Ensure That Homemade Cat Food Is Nutritious?

Making homemade cat food can be a cost-effective way to feed your cat, but it requires careful planning and knowledge.

It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian or a certified pet nutritionist to create a balanced and nutritious diet. Using high-quality, fresh ingredients and following specific recipes designed for cats can ensure that your homemade cat food meets all of your cat’s nutritional needs.

Is It Ethical to Buy Cheaper Cat Food Brands?

While budget constraints may lead some pet owners to opt for cheaper cat food brands, it’s essential to consider the quality and nutritional value of the food.

Cheaper brands may use lower-quality ingredients or fillers that may not provide optimal nutrition for your cat.

Researching the brand, reading labels, and consulting with your veterinarian can help you find affordable options that still meet your cat’s nutritional needs.

Conclusion

Cat food can be expensive, but understanding the reasons behind the rising costs and implementing smart saving strategies can make it manageable.

Whether it’s subscribing to regular shipments, shopping around for deals, or even preparing homemade meals, there are ways to feed your feline friend without breaking the bank. Remember, quality doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag.

With a little effort and creativity, you can provide the best for your cat while keeping your budget in check. 😺