Joybuy Insights

Buying dog and cat food online: how to choose without falling for marketing traps

Buying dog and cat food online is convenient, but the vast range can make comparing products tricky. A flashy packet, terms like “premium” or a flavour name can grab your attention more than the information that really matters. So when you order cat food or dog food, it pays to first check the species, life stage, ingredients and pack size.

Three common pitfalls with pet food

1. A flavour name doesn’t tell you how much meat is in it

“Chicken”, “chicken and turkey” or “with fish” on the front doesn’t automatically mean the product is mostly made of that ingredient. Always check the ingredients list and the percentage of the named ingredient. For example, Sheba Mini Fillets with chicken and turkey states that the pieces contain 4% chicken and 4% turkey. That’s far more concrete than just the picture on the packet.

2. “Complete” isn’t the same as suitable for every pet

A product may be described as complete nutrition, but still be intended for a specific group. Kitten food is tailored to kittens, while senior cat food is designed for cats from a certain age. Likewise, dog food for adult dogs differs from puppy food in terms of feeding guidelines and recommended portions.

Look out for terms such as:

  • complete food or complementary food;
  • suitable for kittens, puppies, adult pets or seniors;
  • breed or size indication, such as small or medium dogs;
  • recommended daily amount;
  • warnings for specific breeds or ages.

3. A big bag isn’t always better value

Dry cat food and dog kibble are often available in bags of 10 to 15 kg. That can be practical for households with multiple pets, but only if your pet accepts the food and you can store it properly. An opened bag should be kept tightly sealed, cool and dry. With wet food, you need to factor in fridge storage and the limited shelf life once opened.

Important specifications to check

Species, age and life stage

Always start with the basics: cat or dog, age and activity level. Felix Double So Nice Junior is described as suitable for kittens aged 6 to 52 weeks. Felix Double the Tasty Senior is aimed at cats aged 7 years and older. For an adult cat, options like Iams Cat Adult Chicken or Purina One Urinary Care Chicken are intended.

The difference is just as clear with dogs. Eukanuba Life Care Adult Medium Chicken is described for medium-sized adult dogs aged 1 to 7 years. Orijen Puppy Formula is designed for puppies of various breeds, from weaning up to around 12 to 18 months, depending on the breed size.

Analytical constituents and food type

Compare at least the following on the label:

  • crude protein;
  • crude fat;
  • crude fibre;
  • crude ash;
  • moisture content;
  • any added vitamins, minerals or other substances.

With wet food, the protein percentage often looks lower than with dry food because wet food contains a lot of moisture. So don’t just look at one number; compare products within the same food type. Wet cat food is also a practical choice for cats that prefer a soft texture; dry food is easier to portion and store.

Packaging, portions and storage convenience

A multipack of pet food can offer variety and is handy when you’re giving several small meals. Do check the total weight, the number of trays or pouches and the recommended daily amount. Gourmet Gold Mousse Multipack contains different varieties in portion sizes. Sheba Mini Fillets is available as 4 × 85 g, while G’woon Chicken & Turkey in Jelly comes in a 405 g tin.

For opened wet food, the product descriptions generally advise keeping leftovers chilled and using them within a maximum of two days. Always follow the information on the packaging.

Recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Felix Double as Nice Inhome Chicken and Turkey 800 g

Felix Double as Nice Inhome Chicken and Turkey 800 g

Why this fits the profile: A straightforward bag of dry food for adult cats, with two flavours in one pack. Handy if you want to try an affordable everyday option first.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description states it is 100% complete adult cat food with no artificial colours. Check the full ingredients list on the packaging before purchase.

Key benefit & highlights

Dry food, chicken and turkey flavour, 800 g pack and a variant for adult cats.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Acana Classics Series Grasslands Poultry Dog Food 14.5 kg

Acana Classics Series Grasslands Poultry Dog Food 14.5 kg

Why this fits the profile: For dog owners looking for a large bag of dog food with chicken and turkey, who want to actively compare the analytical values.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states 27% crude protein, 16% crude fat, 5% crude fibre and 12% moisture. This allows you to compare the ingredients directly against other dog foods.

Key benefit & highlights

14.5 kg content, chicken and turkey as animal ingredients, oats and mention of probiotics in the product description.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent users
Purina One Urinary Care Chicken Urinary Health Adult Cat Food 800 g

Purina One Urinary Care Chicken Urinary Health Adult Cat Food 800 g

Why this fits the profile: For adult cats where you want to deliberately look at a urinary care option, without confusing a standard food with a specific diet food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the Purina product description, this is complete food for adult cats with a urinary care formula. For existing health concerns, a vet should determine which food is suitable.

Key benefit & highlights

34% crude protein, 14% fat, 800 g pack and chicken as a named ingredient at 17% in the composition.

Suitable for: Multi-dog households
Orijen Original Prey Dog Food 11.4 kg

Orijen Original Prey Dog Food 11.4 kg

Why this fits the profile: A large pack for households that regularly order dog food online and want a food suitable for all life stages.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists 38% crude protein, 18% crude fat and 12% moisture. Also check the exception for Great Dane puppies under 14 weeks.

Key benefit & highlights

11.4 kg content, chicken, turkey, fish and egg in the ingredients; according to the product description it is grain-free and comes with feeding advice for different ages.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about ordering pet food online

Is buying dog and cat food online cheaper?

That depends on the content, portion size, delivery costs and offers. Compare the price per kilogram for dry food and the price per 100 grams for wet food. A multipack can be convenient, but isn’t automatically better value than individual packs.

How do I switch to a different food?

Gradually mix the new food with the old food. The product information for various dog foods often recommends a transition period of at least seven days. Keep an eye on your pet’s appetite, stools and general condition. If problems persist, consult a vet.

How long does opened pet food stay good?

Store dry food sealed, cool and dry, and use it by the date on the packaging. Opened wet food should generally be covered in the fridge and used within a maximum of two days. Always check the individual label, especially for tins, trays and pouches.