5 Smart Ways to Save Money on Cat Food (Without Compromising Quality)

Feeding your cat a balanced diet is one of the most important parts of keeping them healthy, but it doesn’t have to eat up your whole budget. Whether you’re feeding one indoor cat or managing a whole colony of feral cats, there are a few simple ways to cut food costs without sacrificing nutrition.

Here are five practical, tried-and-true strategies to help you save money on cat food, plus a homemade recipe to try at home.

1. Buy in Bulk

Buying cat food in bulk is one of the easiest ways to save money over time. Most pet stores offer discounts for large bags or cases, and online retailers often offer even better deals for regular customers.

You can also subscribe to auto-ship programs for even deeper discounts. When you buy in bulk, you pay less per pound and save yourself repeated store runs (especially helpful if you’re managing a feeding station for outdoor cats).

PRO TIP: Store dry food in an airtight container to prevent spoilage or pest problems, especially if you keep food outside near a feeding station.

2. Choose Store Brands

Store-brand cat food is often made with similar nutritional standards as big-name brands, but at a much lower price. If you’re feeding multiple cats (like in a feral cat colony), this switch alone can save you significantly.

Always check the label to make sure it meets your cat’s dietary needs, especially for kittens or senior cats.

3. Use Coupons and Loyalty Discounts

Coupons still work, and not just in Sunday newspapers. Check pet store websites, email newsletters, and even in-store displays for discount codes or printed coupons. Many stores also offer loyalty programs that let you earn points or receive surprise discounts at checkout.

This is especially helpful if you’re stocking up on food for cats in an outdoor cat house or feeding station setup.

4. Make Your Own Cat Food (Simple DIY Cat Food Recipe)

Homemade cat food isn’t for everyone, but if you’re up for it, it can be both affordable and incredibly nutritious. It’s a great option if your cat has specific dietary needs or if you want more control over the ingredients. 

Easy Cooked Chicken & Rice Cat Food Recipe 

• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (no seasoning)

• 1/4 cup cooked white rice

• 1 tablespoon mashed carrots (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon fish oil or a splash of salmon juice (optional)

• Mix together and serve in small portions. Store in fridge up to 3 days.

Check out blogs like 'The Dollar Stretcher' or others for different recipes to try.

⚠️ Always check with your vet before switching your cat to homemade food full-time. You can also check out trusted recipes from The Feline Nutrition Foundation.

5. Avoid Food Waste

Cats are picky. They may leave food behind or sniff and walk away. Instead of overfilling the bowl, try feeding smaller amounts at first. If they finish it, offer a bit more. This simple shift can save you tons over time, especially if you’re feeding several outdoor or feral cats.

To stretch your food supply further:

• Store dry food in airtight containers

• Keep feeding areas clean to avoid pests

• Only open wet food when you’re ready to serve it

Final Thoughts

Feeding your cat well can get expensive fast—especially if you're caring for multiple outdoor or feral cats. But with a few smart strategies, you can cut costs without cutting corners on their health. Whether you're caring for a single house cat or a group of feral cats in feeding stations, these tips can help you save money without cutting corners on health.

Small shifts like buying in bulk, using coupons, or even making your own food can lead to big savings over time.

Do you have a go-to money-saving cat care tip? We’d love to hear it!