Can You Use Food Stamps to Pay for Pet Food?

If you're one of the millions of Americans relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, you might be wondering what exactly you can and can't buy with your benefits.

A common question that arises is “Can you use food stamps to pay for pet food?” The short answer is no, but let’s explore why—and what alternatives may be available for pet owners in need.

What Are Food Stamps (SNAP)?

SNAP is a federal assistance program designed to help low-income individuals and families afford nutritious food. Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the program provides recipients with an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used like a debit card to purchase eligible food items at approved retailers.

According to the USDA, the primary goal of SNAP is to “help low-income Americans put healthy food on the table.” As such, the list of approved purchases is restricted to food and beverages intended for human consumption.

Can You Buy Pet Food with SNAP Benefits?

Unfortunately, pet food is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. The USDA explicitly states that SNAP funds cannot be used to buy “non-food items,” which includes pet food, household supplies, grooming items, vitamins, and more (USDA SNAP Retailer Training Guide).

This restriction can create a difficult situation for SNAP recipients who are also pet owners. Pets are often considered family, and their care can be emotionally and financially significant. While SNAP provides much-needed support for household food security, it does not extend to our furry companions.

Why Isn’t Pet Food Covered?

The exclusion of pet food stems from how the program is structured under federal law. SNAP is designed to meet human nutritional needs, and funding is allocated accordingly. Including pet food in the list of approved items would require legislative changes and potentially increased funding, which makes it a complex issue.

Advocates have long pushed for expanded eligibility to include pet food, arguing that pets play a vital role in the emotional well-being of their owners, particularly among seniors, veterans, and individuals living alone. However, as of now, such proposals have not passed into law.

Alternatives for Low-Income Pet Owners

If you're struggling to afford pet food, there are still some options available:

Local Animal Shelters and Pet Food Pantries

Many local shelters and humane societies operate pet food pantries to assist pet owners in need. Organizations like the Pet Food Pantry and Meals on Wheels sometimes offer pet food assistance as part of their outreach programs. You can search online or contact local shelters to find resources near you.

Human Food Banks

Some food banks partner with animal welfare groups to distribute pet food alongside groceries. While not all food banks offer this service, it’s worth calling around to check availability.

Charitable Organizations

National organizations such as Feeding Pets of the Homeless, RedRover Relief, and the Humane Society of the United States offer assistance programs for pet owners facing financial hardship. These services may include free or low-cost veterinary care and pet food donations.

Discounted or Generic Pet Food

When budget is a concern, some generic or store-brand pet foods offer adequate nutrition at a lower cost. While not a substitute for free resources, this can help stretch your dollars further.

Tips for Pet Owners on a Budget

• Buy in bulk: Purchasing larger quantities often lowers the per-unit cost.
• Look for coupons: Many pet food manufacturers offer printable or digital coupons.
• Reach out to local vets: Some veterinarians offer discounts or know of resources available in your area.
• Pet food subscription services: Occasionally, subscription plans offer significant discounts for regular deliveries.

Legislative Efforts and Public Opinion

There is growing public interest in expanding SNAP to include pet food. Pet advocacy groups and some lawmakers have argued for changes to reflect the modern understanding of pets as part of the family. However, critics argue that the program’s limited resources should remain focused on human nutrition.

A 2020 petition on Change.org urging lawmakers to allow SNAP benefits to cover pet food gained over 150,000 signatures, reflecting widespread concern over the issue. Despite this, legislative progress has been slow.

Know Your Options

While you cannot use food stamps to pay for pet food, there are still a number of alternative resources available for low-income pet owners. If you or someone you know is struggling to feed a pet, reaching out to local shelters, food pantries, or national nonprofits can make a meaningful difference.

As public awareness grows, there may be future changes to address this gap in assistance—but for now, knowing your options can help both you and your pets stay healthy and cared for.