How do I compare dog and cat food prices?

Compare the price per pound or per ounce for dry food and per can for wet food. A bigger bag is usually cheaper per pound, but only if your pet will finish it while it is fresh.

Is it okay to buy pet food in bulk?

For dry food, yes, if you store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container and use it before the best-by date. Do not buy more than your pet will eat in a reasonable time.

Should I switch food to save money?

Be careful. A sudden change can upset a pet's stomach, and some pets need specific diets. Ask your vet before switching, and change gradually.

How do I compare cat litter?

Compare by weight, so the price per pound. Also consider dust, how well it clumps and how often you need to change it, since a cheaper litter you replace more often may cost more.

Are treats worth comparing?

Yes. Compare by price per treat or per ounce, and remember that treats add calories, so smaller or lower-calorie treats can be better value for your pet's health.

Pet Supplies Price Guide

For pet food, litter and treats, compare the price per pound, ounce or treat, and only stock up if the food will be used before it goes stale or your pet outgrows it.

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Pet food

The sticker price hides a lot. A big bag looks expensive and a small bag looks cheap, but what matters is how much food you get per dollar. Divide the price by the weight in pounds or ounces. For wet food, compare the price per can or pouch and check the size of each.

Match the life stage. Puppy, kitten, adult and senior foods are different. Choose the one that fits your pet before you compare prices.
Switch slowly. A sudden change can upset your pet's stomach. Ask your vet if there is a health reason to be careful.
Don't over-buy. Dry food loses freshness. Keep it in its original bag inside an airtight container, in a cool, dry place.

Dog and cat food

See tracked prices and unit prices for pet food.

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Cat litter

Litter is heavy, so shipping and carrying matter, and the price per pound is the fair comparison. Clumping litter that you scoop and top up can last longer than non-clumping litter that you replace entirely. Dust level, scent and tracking are personal, and for a multi-cat home, they decide whether a cheaper litter is really cheaper.

Cat litter

Check the weight on the label, and compare the price per pound across sizes.

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Treats

Treats are the easiest place to overspend. Compare the price per treat or per ounce, and keep in mind that they add calories. Small, soft treats are easy to break into smaller pieces for training, which makes a bag go further.

Dog treats

Check the ingredient list for anything your pet is sensitive to.

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Stocking up without waste

Know how much your pet eats per week.
Buy enough for a few weeks to a couple of months, not a year.
Check the best-by date before you buy.
If the store offers autoship or Subscribe & Save, compare the unit price with your usual store, as described in our household essentials guide.

Shopping for pets at a holiday? See our Pet Halloween guide and Christmas gifts for pets for ideas and safety tips.

For health questions about food, weight or special diets, ask your vet. This page is about prices, not medical advice.

Pet supplies: food, litter and treats

Pet food

Dog and cat food

Cat litter

Cat litter

Treats

Dog treats

Stocking up without waste

Frequently asked questions