The idea that pets are family isn’t just a sentimental notion—pet owners are increasingly feeding their cats and dogs diets that mirror their own, opting for refrigerated, “fresh,” or human-grade meals. While these choices may feel healthier, they come with a hidden cost: a significant environmental impact.
“One of the biggest contributors to climate change is what we eat—and pets are no exception,” said Allison Reser, director of sustainability and innovation at the Pet Sustainability Coalition. Most pets eat meat, and the production of meat carries a heavy footprint, including land use, animal feed, waste, and emissions.
Although high-end pet food is marketed as healthier, research shows traditional kibble or wet food is nutritionally balanced and often uses parts of animals that humans don’t consume, reducing waste. Using human-grade meat, however, increases the climate impact because pets are eating cuts that would otherwise feed people.
In the United States, feeding dogs and cats accounts for over a quarter of the environmental impact from meat consumption—equivalent to the pollution from driving 13.6 million cars for a year, according to UCLA researchers.
Overfeeding is another concern. “Extra calories not only harm the pet’s health but also increase environmental impacts,” said Billy Nicholles, a pet food researcher. Ensuring pets receive the correct portion sizes, treats included, can help reduce both health and environmental risks.
Dietary choices can also reduce a pet’s impact. Dogs can thrive on vegan diets, while cats require animal protein. When feeding cats, lower-impact meat options like chicken or fish are preferable to beef, which has the highest environmental footprint. Plant-based proteins, when suitable, have the smallest impact.
Experts recommend buying commercial pet food rather than preparing meals at home or giving table scraps. Homemade diets can easily become unbalanced, leading to nutrient deficiencies or health issues. Choosing products with by-products, organ meats, or sustainable protein sources—such as crickets—can also help lower your pet’s carbon pawprint.
Beyond diet, pet size, breed, and origin affect environmental impact. Smaller pets generally consume fewer resources and generate less waste. Adopting pets from shelters rather than buying from breeders can further reduce ecological pressure.
Sustainable accessories—made from regenerative, durable, or recyclable materials—also help. For pets who tire of toys quickly, simple DIY alternatives, like newspaper or old receipts, can provide enrichment with zero environmental cost.
Ultimately, pet owners who consider diet, portion size, pet size, and sustainable accessories can keep their furry family members healthy while reducing the ecological footprint of pet ownership.
