The prices of many food and non-food products have been rising steadily in recent months, and among these, pet food has not escaped inflation. In one year, prices have increased by 5 to 10% and another 20% increase is announced next month in stores specializing in animal products.
Several major brands are involved: Whiskas, Pedigree and Sheba… All in the hands of the American giant Mars. In question ? The increase in production, transport and wage costs.
In the kibble shelves for dogs, first-price products are now popular. Some shelves are empty. Currently, the price is between 2 and 4 euros per kilo. But from December 1, these prices will have to be increased by 20%, i.e. an increase of 40 to 80 cents per kilo. For Premium croquettes, it is necessary to count today 6.50 euros per kilo. “For 12kg bags for dogs, very recently, we still took 3 euros on the bag. So yes, the prices are going up and unfortunately, it’s been a constant in recent months: the prices are going up a little steadily”underlines Quentin Corbisier, veterinarian in Temploux, in Namur.
For cats, the prices are even a little higher: the first price is 2.40 euros per kilo. Premium croquettes are almost 10 euros per kilo. And with regard to specialized kibble (medicated), for dogs and cats, it costs around ten euros per kilo.
The solution: make your own food?
Contrary to what one might think, making meals for these animals yourself does not cost less. On the contrary ! The ration must include vegetables, starches and proteins, the prices of which have also increased. And to this must be added the prices of energy and in particular of gas to cook them.
“What will be expensive in the diet of domestic carnivores will be the protein of animal origin that we will provide them. And as everyone knows, the meat has also increased and it is elsewhere what explains the increase in the price of kibble is the increase in the price of meat, among other things. So, for me, in terms of calculating the cost, it will not be as profitable as that. You have to buying the products, storing them, cooking them… It will take time, it will take up space in the fridge”notes the Namur veterinarian.
Especially since preparing the food for your animals yourself can be a risk in the event of incorrect dosage. “FMaking a household ration for a domestic carnivore cannot be improvised, it is calculated. The risk of making a household ration yourself without the help of a nutritionist is that the ration will be unbalanced and that we will increase the risk of obesity or diet-related diseases”insists Quentin Corbisier.
