Pet Food Cost in the UK 2025

Pet food costs in the UK vary significantly based on pet type, size, age, dietary requirements, and brand choice, with options ranging from budget-friendly supermarket brands to premium veterinary diets. Understanding pet food costs is essential for providing proper nutrition to your pets while managing your household budget. With the UK's competitive pet food market offering everything from basic kibble to specialized prescription diets, there are ways to find affordable pet nutrition that meets your pet's health needs.

Dog Food Costs in the UK (Updated 2025)

Dog food costs vary based on brand, quality, and dog size. Here are the typical monthly costs:

1. Budget Dog Food: £10-£25 per month - supermarket own brands

2. Mid-Range Dog Food: £20-£50 per month - popular commercial brands

3. Premium Dog Food: £40-£80 per month - high-quality brands

4. Veterinary Diet: £60-£120 per month - prescription food

5. Raw Food Diet: £50-£100 per month - fresh raw meat

6. Wet Food Only: £30-£80 per month - canned and pouches

Cat Food Costs in the UK

Cat food costs vary based on brand, type, and cat age. Here are the typical monthly costs:

1. Budget Cat Food: £8-£20 per month - supermarket own brands

2. Mid-Range Cat Food: £15-£35 per month - popular commercial brands

3. Premium Cat Food: £25-£60 per month - high-quality brands

4. Veterinary Diet: £40-£80 per month - prescription food

5. Raw Food Diet: £30-£70 per month - fresh raw meat

6. Wet Food Only: £20-£50 per month - canned and pouches

Pet Food by Brand and Quality

Costs for different pet food brands and quality levels:

1. Supermarket Own Brands: £8-£25 per month - budget-friendly options

2. Pedigree/Whiskas: £15-£35 per month - popular commercial brands

3. Royal Canin: £30-£80 per month - premium veterinary brand

4. Hills Science Diet: £25-£70 per month - veterinary recommended

5. Orijen/Acana: £40-£100 per month - premium natural brands

6. Lily's Kitchen: £35-£90 per month - natural premium brand

Pet Food by Pet Size and Age

Costs vary significantly based on pet size and life stage:

1. Small Dogs (under 10kg): £15-£50 per month - less food required

2. Medium Dogs (10-25kg): £25-£70 per month - moderate portions

3. Large Dogs (25kg+): £40-£120 per month - large portions needed

4. Kittens: £10-£30 per month - growing cats need more

5. Adult Cats: £15-£45 per month - standard adult portions

6. Senior Pets: £20-£60 per month - specialized senior diets

Specialized Pet Food Costs

Costs for specialized pet food types:

1. Grain-Free Food: £25-£80 per month - for sensitive pets

2. Hypoallergenic Food: £30-£90 per month - for allergies

3. Weight Management: £20-£70 per month - for overweight pets

4. Dental Care Food: £25-£75 per month - oral health support

5. Joint Care Food: £30-£85 per month - for mobility issues

6. Puppy/Kitten Food: £20-£60 per month - growth formulas

Pet Food Retailers and Their Costs

Costs vary by retailer type and purchasing method:

1. Supermarkets: £10-£40 per month - budget-friendly options

2. Pet Shops: £15-£60 per month - wider selection

3. Online Retailers: £12-£55 per month - often cheaper with bulk buying

4. Veterinary Clinics: £25-£100 per month - prescription and premium brands

5. Subscription Services: £20-£70 per month - regular delivery

6. Bulk Buying: £15-£50 per month - larger quantities

Additional Pet Food Costs

Extra costs to consider with pet food:

1. Treats: £5-£25 per month - training and rewards

2. Supplements: £10-£40 per month - vitamins and joint support

3. Food Storage: £10-£50 - containers and dispensers

4. Feeding Bowls: £5-£30 - specialized feeding equipment

5. Water Fountains: £20-£80 - encourage water intake

6. Automatic Feeders: £30-£150 - timed feeding systems

How to Save Money on Pet Food

Tips for reducing pet food costs:

• Buy in Bulk: Larger bags often cost less per kg

• Compare Prices: Check multiple retailers and online stores

• Look for Sales: Stock up during promotional periods

• Consider Store Brands: Often similar quality to name brands

• Mix Dry and Wet: Combine kibble with wet food for variety

• Monitor Portions: Avoid overfeeding to reduce waste

FAQs

Conclusion

Pet food costs in the UK range from £8-£120 per month depending on pet type, size, brand choice, and dietary requirements. Budget options start from £8-£25 per month, while premium and veterinary diets can cost £40-£120 per month. To save money, buy in bulk, compare prices between retailers, look for sales, and consider store brands that offer similar quality to name brands. Remember that investing in quality pet food can lead to better health outcomes and potentially reduce veterinary costs in the long run. Always consult your veterinarian for dietary recommendations tailored to your pet's specific needs.

	Jane Smith
	Am British, live in London (1985–present)