Joybuy Insights

Pet products: how to choose the right food, accessories and toys

Buying pet products online makes it easy to compare sizes, ingredients and equipment. However, an appealing product description does not necessarily guarantee the right purchase for your dog, cat or small pet. Your animal’s weight, age, lifestyle and environment should guide your choice.

Common pitfalls before you buy

1. Confusing complete and complementary food

A treat or snack is not a substitute for daily food. Cat treats, for example, are generally designed to be given alongside a complete diet. Always follow the guidance on the packaging and adjust the main meal allowance accordingly.

By contrast, dog food or cat food labelled “complete food” is designed to meet the nutritional needs of the relevant animal under the conditions specified by the manufacturer.

2. Relying solely on claims such as “natural” or “premium”

These claims catch the eye, but they are not enough to compare two products. Instead, examine the ingredients list, analytical constituents, target species and life stage. For wet dog food, pay particular attention to the water, fat and protein content. For wet cat food, also check the feeding recommendations and whether taurine is included.

3. Overlooking size and storage

Buying pet food in bulk can reduce the cost per portion. However, you need to be able to store the product correctly and use it before it loses its freshness. Opened pouches or trays often need to be kept in the fridge and used promptly. Dry food, meanwhile, should be stored in a dry place away from heat and moisture.

Technical criteria to check

Age, neutering and your pet’s profile

Kittens, adult cats and neutered cats do not necessarily have the same dietary needs. Dry food for neutered cats should be chosen according to your cat’s weight, activity level and the recommended daily allowance. Some products provide precise information about their protein, fat, fibre or taurine content. This is far more useful than a broad claim displayed on the front of the bag.

For dogs, size, physical activity and age also affect the amount to serve each day. Wet dog food can be served on its own when it is described as complete, or combined with dry food if the label allows this.

Ingredients and regulatory information

In France and the European Union, packaging must identify the target species, ingredients, analytical constituents, any additives, net quantity and feeding instructions. Take the time to compare:

  • the food classification: complete or complementary;
  • the relevant species and life stage;
  • the declared ingredients and the order in which they appear;
  • feeding recommendations and guidance on changing food;
  • storage conditions after opening.

If your pet has a medical condition, a suspected allergy or is undergoing a significant dietary change, seek advice from a vet. A product description is not a substitute for medical advice.

Size, material and supervision

For an interactive dog toy, check the recommended size, material, charging method and whether it contains any removable parts. A toy described as durable will not necessarily be suitable for a dog that quickly destroys its accessories. Supervision remains essential, particularly when the toy contains electronic or fabric components.

For a reflective dog vest, measure your dog’s chest before placing your order. The garment should stay securely in place without restricting breathing or movement. Reflective strips improve visibility, but they do not replace a suitable lead or the owner’s vigilance during walks.

Accessories for small pets, such as a house for a guinea pig or hamster, should be selected according to the enclosure’s dimensions, the stability of the structure and whether it has any dangerous sharp edges. A shelter should not excessively reduce the space available for moving around.

Our selection based on your buying profile

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
CESAR Garden Inspirations Terrine Pâté Dog Food - Beef & Carrot 6-Pack, 1800 g

CESAR Garden Inspirations terrines for dogs, beef and carrot, pack of 6, 1.8 kg

Why this choice suits this profile : This six-tray pack is ideal for owners who want to plan several meals for their adult dog without buying a wide range of products.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product is described as a complete food for adult dogs and states that it should be refrigerated after opening, making its use clear.

Main benefit and key features

A 1.8 kg format, individual tray portions and a recipe advertised as containing no added sugars, artificial flavourings or colourings.

Recommended for : Premium shoppers
EDGAR & Cooper Grain-Free Chicken & Turkey Pâté for Adult Dogs - 100g

EDGAR & Cooper grain-free chicken and turkey pâté for adult dogs, 100 g

Why this choice suits this profile : The small format lets you try a chicken and turkey recipe without immediately committing to a large multipack.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients clearly distinguish chicken, at 30 %, from turkey, at 26 %, and specify storage conditions after opening.

Main benefit and key features

A 100 g tray, a recipe advertised as grain-free and declared fruit and vegetable ingredients.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent users
Ultima Sterilised Cat Food Chicken - 12kg

Ultima chicken dry food for neutered cats, 12 kg

Why this choice suits this profile : The 12 kg bag is intended for households with a dry storage area that want to maintain a consistent feeding routine for an adult neutered cat.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies daily quantities according to weight and recommends a gradual transition over 7 to 10 days.

Main benefit and key features

A complete dry food for adult neutered cats, with 35 % crude protein and 12 % fat.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent users
Petgravity Smart Bouncing Ball For Medium Dog Blue

Petgravity smart bouncing ball for medium-sized dogs, blue

Why this choice suits this profile : This interactive toy is suitable for medium-sized dogs that need plenty of exercise, provided they are supervised during play sessions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description advises against using it with dogs that bite very forcefully and recommends removing the toy as soon as a part becomes loose or torn.

Main benefit and key features

Two play modes, a USB-C rechargeable battery and a removable fabric cover advertised as replaceable.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a comprehensive, real-time-updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria and European safety regulations.

Other useful purchases to compare

For evening walks, the Trixie reflective dog vest combines a fluorescent yellow colour with reflective elements and a hook-and-loop fastening. However, measure your dog’s chest before choosing the indicated size M.

Cat owners can also compare multipacks of wet cat food, including Sheba, Gourmet Gold and Gourmet Nature’s Creations formats. Catisfactions cat treats should be given only occasionally and kept in their resealable pouch.

For families, the PLAYMOBIL 72007 – Farm Animals Discovery set is suitable for children aged 4 and over. It contains small parts, so adult supervision is required, and the toy is not suitable for children under 3. The MATTEL Jurassic World Rebirth Distortus Rex is also suitable from age 4. Its moving and sound-producing elements require you to follow the safety instructions.

FAQ about pet products

How can you reduce the cost of pet food?

Compare the price per kilogram or per portion, rather than the total price of the pack. Buying pet food in bulk can be worthwhile if your pet regularly eats the same recipe. However, check the best-before date, the storage space available and the storage conditions after opening.

How long can a dog toy last?

Its lifespan depends on the material, how often it is used and the dog’s behaviour. Regularly inspect the stitching, battery, detachable parts and chewed areas. A damaged toy should be removed, even if it still works.

How can you successfully change your cat’s food?

Gradually switch from the old food to the new one by mixing them over several days, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Monitor your cat’s appetite and tolerance. If problems persist or your cat requires a specific diet, seek advice from a vet.