Cats are expensive, but that doesn’t mean they have to cost a fortune. With a little savvy, you can save on everything from food to litter.
Getting the most bang for your buck requires calculating costs, shopping around, and knowing which store has the best deals. Here’s how to do it all.
Identify Your Needs
Cat food and supplies are expensive, but there are some ways to save. First, always use high-value printable coupons for the items you need to buy. They reduce the amount you must pay, freeing up money for other pet-related expenses. Also, try to purchase these items at discount stores. These stores offer various pet foods and supplies at discounted prices and often offer additional savings by joining their loyalty programs.
Another way to save is to shop at drugstores. These stores have large pet sections and offer many discounts and savings programs, including a card that provides two percent back on most purchases and offers coupon scanning at the checkout line. Be sure to read the product labels. Check the ingredient list and make a note of any words such as “all-natural” or “no artificial preservatives.” However, beware of misleading words. For example, “dinner” or other words that indicate a higher meat content usually only constitute less than 95% of the product’s weight. For example, “chicken cat dinner” may contain more fish than chicken.
Also, be sure to check the product’s label for a guarantee that it meets your pet’s nutritional needs. A good indication is the phrase, “”proven effective in feeding tests.””
Look for a Deal
Many pet owners are looking for deals to save on cat food and other supplies in the new standard. Not surprisingly, coupon usage has spiked in recent years. According to Experian Simmons consumer survey data, 37% of dog owners and 45% of cat owners use coupons. This percentage is even higher among those who say they are worse off financially than a year ago.
Look for discounts at retailers that offer auto-ship programs or discounts like Chewy coupons. These retailers allow you to automatically schedule repeat orders at a frequency that works best for your schedule. Typically, these programs offer up to 10% savings, especially if combined with coupons and sales.
Always calculate the price per pound when shopping for dry cat food. To do this, divide the sticker price by four (four cups of dry kibble equals one pound). This will give you a better idea of how much each brand truly costs you.
Shop Around
Pet food is expensive, but you can find discounts to help you save. Check with retailers and manufacturers, as they often post high-value coupons online. Look for dollar-off deals and buy-one-get-one offers for food, treats, and litter. Stacking these savings with other rewards, like a cash-back credit card, can increase your total savings.
Many stores offer subscription services that automate repeat orders on your schedule. However, it’s important to note that each site requires a minimum of five products per delivery to receive the total discount.
When you’re shopping around, it pays to use a unit price calculator. These tools let you compare prices on a per-ounce or per-pound basis, making it easier to spot the best deal. To do this, visit the manufacturer’s or retailer’s website and enter the product details.
Consider signing up for their email lists if you frequently buy specific pet foods. These companies send promotional emails featuring exclusive coupons and sales for their products.
Shop Online
As pet owners, we all want the best for our pets, but that doesn’t have to break the bank. Following a few simple strategies, you can save money on cat food and still provide your pet with all the nutrients they need for optimal health.
Look for online coupons or download a coupon application that offers cat food and other pet supplies rebates. These apps are a great way to save on your purchase and can be used on top of other savings techniques, such as buying in bulk or using a cash-back credit card.
Another option is to contact the manufacturer directly. Many companies offer coupons or similar discounts to their loyal customers, especially if you mention how helpful the product is for your pet. This method can also help you avoid changing cat food brands, which can cause digestive issues or allergies.
Finally, consider joining a pet food delivery service. These services often offer lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores and can provide more variety of foods. In addition, some online retailers allow you to shop in bulk and earn rewards points, which can add up over time. However, be sure to compare costs and delivery fees before deciding. Some services require a minimum purchase of several weeks or months, which may only be feasible for some pet parents.
