The persistent question with insect-based pet foods has been whether pet owners would accept the products or if the “ick factor” would be too much. Evidence grows that both dog and cat owners will accept pet foods made with protein or oil from insects. Certain factors may influence which pet owners are willing to give insects a chance as dog and cat food ingredients.
A study published in the Journal of Animal Nutrition and Animal Physiology assessed dog and cat owners’ willingness to incorporate insect-based pet food into their pets’ diets and identify the factors influencing their decisions. The scientists observed that pet owners' personal dietary decisions correlated to attitudes about arthropods in pet food.
Pet owner attitude towards insect-based pet food
The study included 435 survey responses, with 66% of respondents being dog owners and 58% cat owners, while 24% owned both dogs and cats. There was a difference between dog and cat owners, with 52% of dog owners and 62% of cat owners expressing a positive attitude towards insect-based pet food.
“Cat owners displayed a more positive perception compared to dog owners, suggesting a beneficial focus on the feline niche,” the Ghent University researchers wrote in the article.
Among cat owners, those who adhered to specific diets themselves exhibited a higher acceptance of insect-based pet food, regardless of their own diet type.
Regarding dietary choices, 32% of dog owners and 34% of cat owners reported prior experience with eating insects in their own diets. A positive entomophagy experience increased insect-based pet food acceptance among dog and cat owners. Even among those who had not yet tried insects, an interest in doing so positively influenced their acceptance of insect-based pet food.
The health and sustainability benefits of insect-based pet foods also influenced both dog and cat owners.
“To enhance overall acceptance, emphasizing sustainability and conducting further research to establish the nutritional benefits of IBPF are crucial,” the study authors wrote. “The findings of this study provide valuable insights for pet food manufacturers and marketers to develop strategies and products aligned with the preferences and needs of pet owners.”
