PetSmart vs. Costco: Where Can You Find the Most Affordable Pet Products?
Written by
Laura Beck
Edited by
Susan Kim
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Pet parents always want the best for their furry (or scaly!) friends, but they also want deals. Two big names in the pet essentials department are PetSmart and Costco – and it’s hard to know which of them offers the best deals.
Well, GOBankingRates did some research to find where you can save the most when it comes to the things your pet needs. Here’s where to find the best deals on some pet essentials.Â
Dog Food: Costco Takes the Lead
When it comes to keeping Fido fed, Costco’s Kirkland Signature Adult Formula is the clear winner. At $49.99 for a 40-pound bag, it beats out PetSmart’s Purina ONE SmartBlend, priced at $59.89 for 40 pounds.
Cat Food: PetSmart Purrs Ahead
Cat owners, take note: PetSmart’s 30-pound bag of Meow Mix Original Choice, priced at $28.48, is a steal compared to Costco’s Kirkland Signature Cat Food at $36.99 for 25 pounds. PetSmart not only gives you a better price, but more food as well.
Dental Chews: Costco Offers More Bite for Your Buck
Keep those canine teeth so fresh and so clean with Costco’s Kirkland Signature Dental Chews. At $36.99 for 72 chews, they’re a better deal than PetSmart’s Greenies at $36.98 for just 36 chews. That’s double the treats for virtually the same price!
Dog Toys: A Close Fetch
Both stores offer similar ChuckIt! toy buckets, but Costco’s 11-toy set for $37.99 slightly edges out PetSmart’s 8-toy bucket at $35.99. If you’ve got a playful pup, Costco’s extra toys might be worth the couple extra dollars.
Dog Beds: Costco Wins by a Landslide
For pet parents looking to give their dogs a comfy place to snooze, Costco’s Kirkland Signature 42″ Pet Napper is a bargain at $39.99. Compare that to PetSmart’s Top Paw Orthopedic Cuddler at $67.99, and the choice is clear – unless your dog needs specific orthopedic support, then PetSmart has a wider selection to choose from.Â
Cat Trees: PetSmart Climbs to the Top
Surprisingly, PetSmart takes the lead in the cat tree category. Their TRIXIE 55-in Alicante Cat Tree, priced at $65.99, is significantly cheaper than Costco’s Catry Kasio 55-inch Cat Tree at $99.99. Both offer the same height, but PetSmart’s price is hard to beat.
Aquariums: Costco Makes a Splash
Fish enthusiasts will find a unique deal at Costco. Their Back to the Roots Water Garden Mini Ecosystem, priced at $29.97, not only costs less than PetSmart’s Top Fin 5-gallon Starter Kit ($69.99) but also offers an innovative aquaponics setup that grows plants – it even comes with seeds!
Dog Multivitamins: Costco for the Win
While PetSmart’s Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Multivitamin (90 count for $29.97) might seem cheaper than Costco’s Kirkland Signature 8-in-1 chews (250 count for $34.99), Costco’s option is cheaper when you break it down by serving.
The Final Word
Costco often comes out on top for dog-related products and bulk purchases, while PetSmart offers better deals on cat products and smaller quantity items. However, Costco has a more limited selection when it comes to pretty much anything, so if you want more choice, head to PetSmart. But if you want a curated list of the best pet essentials out there, Costco might be the place.
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