1. Buy Pet Food in Bulk
One of the easiest ways to save on pet food is to buy in bulk. Large bags or cases of wet food are often significantly cheaper per serving than smaller portions. Just make sure you have an airtight container to keep it fresh!
2. DIY Your Pet Treats
Instead of buying expensive, store-bought treats, try making your own at home. With simple ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and pumpkin, you can whip up a batch of tasty and healthy treats that cost a fraction of what you’d pay in stores.
3. Opt for High-Quality Food
It might sound counterintuitive, but investing in high-quality pet food can actually save you money in the long run. Better nutrition means fewer vet visits and less money spent on health problems down the road.
4. Use Subscription Services for Discounts
Many online retailers offer discounts if you subscribe to regular deliveries of pet food, treats, or other supplies. These subscriptions can save you 10-15% on items you’re buying anyway—and you’ll never run out!
5. Make Your Own Toys
You don’t need to splurge on fancy toys to keep your pet entertained. Try making simple DIY toys, like turning an old T-shirt into a braided tug toy or filling a sock with catnip for a homemade cat kicker. Your pet will love it, and your wallet will thank you.
6. Visit Low-Cost Vet Clinics
Routine vet care can be pricey, but many communities have low-cost vet clinics or events offering affordable vaccinations, dental cleanings, and basic health checks. Check local shelters or pet organizations for upcoming events near you.
7. Groom at Home
Professional grooming can add up quickly, especially for long-haired breeds. Consider learning to groom your pet at home. Invest in a quality brush, nail clippers, and pet shampoo, and watch a few YouTube tutorials to save big on grooming fees.
8. Use Multi-Pet Discounts
If you have more than one pet, look for multi-pet discounts on everything from pet insurance to boarding services. Many businesses will offer a discount for additional pets, so don’t be afraid to ask.
9. Shop at Discount Pet Stores
Big-box pet stores can be expensive, so check out discount pet supply stores or online retailers for the same products at a lower cost. Even generic brands can offer the same quality as name-brand items without the markup.
10. Rotate Toys to Keep Them Interesting
Instead of constantly buying new toys, rotate your pet’s existing toys to keep things fresh. Hide a few toys away and bring them out after a couple of weeks—it’ll feel like a brand-new toy to your pet, saving you money on new purchases.
11. Invest in Durable Chew Toys
Buying cheap toys might save money upfront, but if your pet is a heavy chewer, they’ll go through them quickly. Spend a little more on durable, high-quality chew toys that can withstand rough play and last much longer.
12. Make Your Own Pet Bed
Pet beds can be surprisingly expensive, but you can make your own cozy spot for your pet with a few basic supplies. Use an old blanket or a memory foam mattress topper cut to size and cover it with a soft sheet. Instant savings, and your pet will still sleep like royalty.
13. Learn Basic Pet First Aid
Knowing some basic first aid can save you from rushing to the emergency vet for minor issues. Invest in a simple pet first aid kit and learn to handle minor injuries, like small cuts or tick removal, to avoid unnecessary costs.
14. Swap Pet-Sitting with Friends
Boarding can be costly, so why not set up a pet-sitting swap with a trusted friend or neighbor? You watch their pet while they’re away, and they return the favor when you need it. It’s a great way to save on boarding fees and know your pet is in good hands.
15. Reuse and Recycle Household Items
Get creative with what you already have at home. Old blankets can become bedding, cardboard boxes make great play areas for cats, and an empty plastic bottle can become a fun (and free!) dog toy. Your pet doesn’t care if it’s brand new—just that it’s fun!
