Why does the Iran war affect pet food?
Pet food shares the same supply chains as human food. The key ingredients being disrupted:
- Meat byproducts — the primary ingredient in most pet foods, now rising due to higher feed and energy costs
- Soybean oil — widely used in pet food formulations, prices spiking due to Strait of Hormuz closure
- Grains and corn — analysts warn a prolonged war could shrink US corn acres by 1-1.5 million (AgWeb)
- Packaging materials — petroleum-based, rising with oil prices
- Shipping costs — transportation of raw materials and finished products all more expensive
How much more will pet food cost?
Expect a 10-20% increase in pet food prices over the next 2-3 months, depending on brand and type:
- Premium/imported brands: Hit first and hardest (specialty ingredients, complex supply chains)
- Store-brand dry food: Smaller increases initially (simpler ingredients, domestic supply)
- Wet/canned food: Moderate increases (metal can costs tied to energy prices)
- Raw/fresh pet food: Largest increases (meat and refrigeration costs both rising)
Pet transportation is getting more expensive too
For pet owners needing to fly with or ship animals, costs are surging. Jet fuel accounts for 25-30% of airline operating expenses, and airlines are passing those costs to customers through higher ticket prices and surcharges. (PetWorks)
What can pet owners do?
- Stock up now on your pet’s regular food while prices are still reasonable
- Consider switching to a comparable but cheaper brand temporarily
- Buy in bulk — larger bags often have lower per-pound costs
- Ask your vet about equivalent but more affordable medications
- Look for pet food bank programs in your area — many are expanding
- Don’t skip vet visits — preventive care is cheaper than emergency treatment
Will there be pet food shortages?
Outright shortages are unlikely for mainstream brands in the US, but:
- Specialty and imported brands may see stockouts
- Certain flavors or formulations may be temporarily unavailable
- Prescription pet foods with specialized ingredients could face delays
The broader food supply chain disruption — with one-third of global fertilizer blocked at the Strait of Hormuz — will indirectly affect pet food production over the coming months. (CNBC)