Benefits of custom pet food vs standard kibble

Separate the food from the service

Write down what is customised: the recipe, portion size, delivery schedule or simply the name on the pack. These are different benefits. Pre-portioned packs may make measuring simpler, while a conventional bag may be easier to store or buy locally. Neither feature establishes nutritional quality.

Ask questions that change the decision

WSAVA provides a manufacturer-question checklist. An ingredient list on its own cannot establish the quality or suitability of the finished food.

• Is this a complete food for the species and life stage, or a complementary product?
• Who formulates the recipe, what nutritional expertise do they have, and what quality checks does the manufacturer describe?
• Are calories and feeding quantities available before purchase?
• Can the supplier provide a batch number, clear storage instructions and a contact for product questions?

Compare a realistic monthly cost

Use your pet’s agreed daily amount, rather than comparing pack prices. For a dry food costing £24 for 3 kg, a 150 g portion costs £1.20 per day: £24 ÷ 3,000 × 150. That is £36 over 30 days before delivery. This is an arithmetic example, not a recommended portion.

For a subscription, include delivery, minimum orders and what happens when a delivery is delayed. For chilled products, check whether you have the required storage space and can use opened packs within the manufacturer’s instructions.

Keep a simple comparison record

• Record the current food, amount, total daily cost and any concerns.
• Save the new product’s full label and instructions before ordering.
• Discuss health conditions or a therapeutic diet with your vet before changing foods.