Joybuy Insights

Pet accessories and products: how to make the right choices without falling for marketing

Between promises of odour control, “silent” accessories and foods presented as irresistible, shopping for a cat or dog can quickly drive up the bill. Pet accessories and products should first and foremost be suited to your pet’s habits, your home and the amount of time you can realistically devote to maintaining them.

Common pitfalls to avoid before buying

1. Mistaking a marketing promise for a measurable specification

A product advertised as “dust-free”, “silent” or “long-lasting” is not always based on a clearly defined technical characteristic. For a water fountain, look instead at the tank capacity, whether it has a filter, and the price or availability of replacement filters. For cat litter, check its composition, texture and usage instructions.

2. Overlooking compatibility and dimensions

A replacement part may appear universal when it is only compatible with certain models. This is particularly true of a replacement flap for a PetSafe cat flap. Before ordering, check the model number, dimensions and fixing system.

3. Adding treats without adjusting the daily ration

Dog treats are complementary foods. They do not replace main meals and should be included in your pet’s daily intake. The amount to give depends in particular on the dog’s size, age, activity level and usual ration.

Technical criteria to consider

Hydration: capacity, filtration and maintenance

A cat water fountain is particularly convenient when water needs to remain available between refills. A capacity of 2 litres can mean fewer top-ups, but it does not remove the need for regular cleaning. The filter should be easy to replace and install.

Also check the design of the bowl, access to hard-to-clean corners and the stated noise level. A quiet flow may reassure a nervous pet, although how much noise is perceived depends on where the fountain is placed and each cat’s sensitivity.

Cat litter: clumping, dust and composition

A plant-based cat litter made from cassava or maize does not have the same properties as mineral litter. Claims such as natural clumping litter and dust-free litter should be considered alongside the product details: low dust emission when pouring in the granules does not guarantee the complete absence of particles.

Firm enough clumps make daily cleaning easier. However, you should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, replace the contents of the tray regularly and never flush clumps down the toilet if this is not recommended.

With green tea litter, take your cat’s sensitivity to fragrances into account. Some pets may tolerate an unscented version better, while a formula with bicarbonate and green tea fragrance may be more suitable for your household’s preferences.

Complementary food: composition and storage

For dog treats, check the ingredients list, net weight, additives and feeding guidance. A resealable bag helps preserve the texture after opening, but the product should be stored in a cool, dry place, as stated on the label.

Food intended for cats and dogs is not interchangeable. Always check the species, recommended age and precautions mentioned on the packaging.

Our selection based on how you use it

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
Cat water fountain with filter, 2 litre pet dispenser with quiet flow, automatic circulation and 5 replacement filters for cats and small dogs

Cat water fountain with filter, 2 litre pet dispenser with quiet flow, automatic circulation and 5 replacement filters for cats and small dogs

Why this choice suits this profile : its 2-litre tank and five included replacement filters offer a straightforward way to get started, whether you have a cat or a small dog.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The capacity, automatic circulation and number of filters are clearly stated. This makes it easier to compare with less well-documented models.

Main benefit and key features

2-litre tank, automatic circulation, flow advertised as quiet and five replacement filters.

Recommended for : Premium product enthusiasts
VITAKRAFT Pure chicken dog treats, 560 g

VITAKRAFT Pure chicken dog treats, 560 g

Why this choice suits this profile : this 560 g pack is ideal for households that regularly give rewards during walks, training sessions or playtime.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify that this is complementary food and recommend adjusting the usual ration to maintain a balanced calorie intake.

Main benefit and key features

Chew sticks made with beef hide, chicken and cheese; with no added sugar, cereals, soya, preservatives or flavour enhancers, according to the product details.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent users
XUCUIHUA plant-based cat litter with green tea fragrance, 2.5 kg

XUCUIHUA plant-based cat litter with green tea fragrance, 2.5 kg

Why this choice suits this profile : its fine texture and rapid clumping are ideal for households that remove clumps every day and are looking for green tea litter.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its cassava and maize-based composition, along with the daily removal instructions, makes it possible to verify the usage claims in practical terms.

Main benefit and key features

Plant-based materials, firm clumps, green tea fragrance combined with bicarbonate and low dust emission claimed when pouring.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent users
PetSafe 640 flexible replacement flap

PetSafe 640 flexible replacement flap

Why this choice suits this profile : this flap lets PetSafe cat flap owners get their cat flap working again without replacing the entire unit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Compatibility with several PetSafe models must be checked before purchase, helping you avoid ending up with a part you cannot use.

Main benefit and key features

Flexible polymer, screwdriver installation and cleaning with a damp cloth.

Looking for more options ?

We have brought together a complete, real-time selection of products that meet these demanding criteria as well as European safety standards.

Care tips to keep costs under control

  • Water fountain : take apart the accessible components, rinse the tank and replace the filter according to its condition and the recommendations in the product details.
  • Cat litter : remove waste and clumps every day. Store the bag in a dry place to preserve the texture of the plant-based granules.
  • Treats : reseal the bag carefully and follow the stated shelf life after opening.
  • Cat flap : check that the flap opens and closes freely and that it has no cracks.

Frequently asked questions about cat and dog products

What capacity should you choose for a cat water fountain ?

A capacity of 2 litres may be suitable for a single cat or a household with a small dog, depending on the pet’s consumption and the temperature in your home. Even with automatic circulation, the water level should be checked regularly.

Can plant-based litter be flushed down the toilet ?

Not necessarily. For the models featured here, the instructions state that used litter and clumps must not be flushed down the toilet. Place them in a sealed bag, following your local waste collection rules.

How can you give your dog treats without unbalancing their meals ?

Give them as an occasional reward and reduce the main ration according to the amount given. The VITAKRAFT product details specify that the product is complementary and recommend taking each dog’s size, age, activity level and individual metabolism into account.