Posted: March 20, 2009, 3 a.m. EDT
Q: How can I save money on cat food and cat litter?
A: In these tough economic times it can be difficult to make ends meet, but you can find ways to help cut costs without cutting back on your cat’s essentials. I suggest you start by becoming aware of the weekly specials in your nearby large-chain pet stores. Every now and then my neighborhood store runs a big sale on pet food. Recently the price was so good on the favorite food of my two cats, Puddin’ and Abby, that I bought 100 cans! I had to make several trips because I didn’t have a shopping cart and my kitchen cabinet was so stocked, it looked like I was going into the pet-food business. However, I saved a lot of money and Puddin’ and Abby were very pleased that their favorite meals were still being served.
Cat food has gotten more expensive, that’s for sure. Again, check the sales in your local supermarket pet stores and while there, ask the management if there are any special deals. As is my case, you can get a real bargain, especially if you buy in bulk. If you feed your cat dry food, buy the bigger bags. Though smaller bags are priced less, they end up being more expensive in the long run.
Check for coupons in the Sunday papers and ask your friends who do not own cats to help clip coupons and save them for you. I recently collected 17 coupons — each $2 off my favorite cat litter. I saved $34! Remember to check the expiration dates of coupons.
I am sure readers have some tips for cost savings as well. Please add comments if you do. We all want our kitties to be comfortable and cared for during this time.