How to Save Money on Cat Food in the UK

1. Buy in Bulk

Purchasing cat food in larger quantities can significantly reduce the cost per portion.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Look for larger bags of dry food, as they tend to be more cost-effective than smaller packs.
• Consider bulk-buying wet food in multipacks instead of single cans or pouches.
• Store dry food properly in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent waste.

2. Subscribe and Save

Many retailers offer subscription services where you can save money by setting up recurring deliveries.

Best Subscription Options:

• Amazon Subscribe & Save – Save up to 15% on repeat orders.
• Zooplus Savings Plan – Discounts for repeat customers.
• Pets at Home VIP Club – Special offers and loyalty rewards.

3. Compare Prices Online

Before making a purchase, compare prices across different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Top Price Comparison Tools:

• Google Shopping – Compare prices across multiple retailers.
• Pet Price Comparison Websites like PetShop.co.uk and MyPetWarehouse.
• Supermarket Deals Websites such as HotUKDeals or LatestDeals.co.uk.

4. Look for Special Offers and Discounts

Supermarkets, pet stores, and online retailers frequently offer deals on cat food.

Where to Find Deals:

• Check supermarket discount sections and “yellow sticker” reductions.
• Sign up for retailer newsletters to receive exclusive discount codes.
• Follow pet food brands on social media for promotions and giveaways.

5. Use Loyalty Programs

Many pet stores and supermarkets have loyalty schemes that offer cashback or points for future purchases.

Best Loyalty Schemes:

• Pets at Home VIP Club – Earn points and receive exclusive discounts.
• Tesco Clubcard & Sainsbury’s Nectar – Collect points on pet food purchases.
• Zooplus Reward Points – Earn points for discounts on future orders.

6. Choose Own-Brand Cat Food

Many supermarket and pet store own-brand cat foods offer the same nutritional benefits as premium brands but at a fraction of the price.

Best Own-Brand Options:

• Aldi & Lidl – Affordable cat food options with good nutritional value.
• Tesco & Sainsbury’s Own Brand – Budget-friendly choices with quality ingredients.
• Pets at Home AVA Range – A vet-approved own-brand alternative to premium foods.

7. Consider Mixing Wet and Dry Food

Premium wet food can be costly, so mixing it with dry food can help your cat get balanced nutrition while stretching your budget further.

Benefits of Mixing:

• Keeps your cat’s meals interesting and varied.
• Reduces the need to buy large quantities of expensive wet food.
• Helps with hydration if your cat prefers dry food.

8. Avoid Overfeeding

Overfeeding not only wastes food but can also lead to health problems and vet bills. Follow the recommended feeding guidelines on food packaging.

Tips to Prevent Waste:

• Use a measuring cup to ensure accurate portion sizes.
• Store wet food properly and refrigerate any leftovers.
• Monitor your cat’s weight and adjust portions as needed.

9. Check for Free Samples and Coupons

Some cat food brands offer free samples or discount coupons to encourage customers to try their products.

Where to Find Freebies:

• Check brand websites for promotional giveaways.
• Sign up for newsletters from major pet food companies.
• Look for free sample offers in pet stores.

10. Consider Homemade or Raw Diets (With Caution)

Some cat owners opt for homemade or raw diets to save money, but it’s essential to ensure your cat gets the right nutrients.

Things to Consider:

• Consult a vet before switching to homemade food.
• Balance protein, fat, and essential nutrients carefully.
• Research recipes that meet feline nutritional needs.

Conclusion

Feeding your cat doesn’t have to break the bank. By buying in bulk, using loyalty schemes, taking advantage of discounts, and making smart dietary choices, you can significantly reduce your pet food expenses. With these strategies, you’ll keep your cat happy and healthy while saving money on cat food in the UK.