How to Save on Pet Food Without Sacrificing Quality
Feeding your pet well doesn’t have to mean draining your wallet. With prices on the rise for both kibble and canned food, many pet owners are looking for ways to cut costs without compromising on nutrition. The good news? You don’t have to trade quality for savings. With the right strategies—and a few smart tools—you can get top-tier food for less.
Here’s how to save money on pet food while still giving your furry friend the nutrition they deserve.
- Use Auto-Ship for Consistent Discounts
Retailers like Chewy, Petco, and PetSmart offer auto-ship programs that discount recurring orders by 5–10%. These programs also let you schedule deliveries so you never run out of food.
Savings Tip: Set up auto-ship on high-consumption items like dry food, wet food, or treats, then layer it with cashback from apps like Rakuten or Ibotta when available.
- Earn Cashback with Gift Cards
One of the best ways to save without switching brands is to pay with a digital gift card that gives you instant rewards. For example, you can earn cashback at PetSmart or get a discount on Petco gift cards through Fluz. These cards work online or in-store and can be purchased for the exact amount at checkout.
Bonus: Many stores allow you to stack gift card payments with coupons and loyalty points for maximum savings.
- Compare Prices Before You Buy
Use online tools like Google Shopping or Honey to compare pet food prices across major retailers. Sometimes the same brand of food can vary in price by several dollars between stores. - Look for Manufacturer Coupons
Major pet food brands like Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Royal Canin often provide coupons on their own websites. You can also find printables or rebates on third-party deal sites like Coupons.com. - Buy in Bulk When It Makes Sense
If your pet eats a consistent brand and formula, larger bags tend to cost less per pound. Stores like Costco and Sam’s Club are ideal for bulk purchases.
Savings Tip: Use a rewards credit card or cashback platform like Ibotta if you’re shopping in-store.
- Join Loyalty Programs
Most major retailers offer free loyalty programs with point systems and member-only pricing.
These programs can also alert you to flash sales or exclusive bundle offers on your preferred pet food brands.
- Don’t Forget Prescription Options
If your pet requires prescription food, you can still find savings. Chewy Pharmacy and Petco’s Vet Services both offer online fulfillment with competitive pricing, and you may be able to apply cashback through your card or platform of choice.
Final Thoughts
Quality nutrition is non-negotiable—but price doesn’t have to be. By combining retailer discounts, auto-ship benefits, loyalty programs, and cashback tools like Fluz, you can feed your pet the best without overpaying. A little strategy goes a long way when you’re buying food for the most important member of your household.
