Value Pet Supplies may not have a physical storefront, but that didn’t stop them from bringing in $2.1 million in revenue for 2008. Sales grew more than eight-fold when the company switched to an e-commerce platform, reports president Zachary Piech. He says that making it easier for consumers to purchase pet care products directly through the site had an amazing impact. Yet with so many online retailers, brands and pet products to choose from, it can be difficult to navigate pet supplies online.

Food is one of the most important pet supplies to buy. High quality food can ensure a shiny coat, a proper weight, good energy levels and a longer life, whereas poor quality food can leave a pet listless, bloated, chunky and requiring more frequent medical care.

“You don’t have to choose the most expensive food to get what’s best for your pet,” advises Consumer Reports’ health editor, Jamie Hirsh. She advises that pet owners look for food that’s been validated by research from the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and food that is clearly labeled with manufacturer contact information. The pet’s age and special needs should be considered when making a healthy pet food purchasing decision.

Many people wonder about wet food versus dry food for their pet supplies. Pets with kidney or urinary problems may benefit from softer, moister wet food, although pets with dental problems or weak stomachs fare better with dry food. There’s generally no nutritional difference, but since wet foods contain 75% water, the pet will need to eat more to get the same amount of calories (which makes wet food more expensive). Age-specific food is very important for pregnant animals and growing puppies or kittens. Consumers should also look for cat supplies or dog supplies labels that say “for growth” or “for all of life’s stages.” Healthy adult animals should be on “for maintenance” food. Products labeled “lean,” “low-calorie” or “light” must meet designated AAFCO standards. Labels that say “natural” are loosely regulated.

Wellness Core, Natural Balance Ultra Premium, Newman’s Own Organics Chicken & Rice and Feline’s Pride Gourmet Chicken Dinner are among the top brands of dry food pet supplies for cats. Wet food brands include Wellness, Natural Balance and Fancy Feast. Innova, Evolve, Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover’s Soul, Merrick, Evangers, Wysong and Fromm Four-Star Nutritionals also ranked well.

For more great tips on buying pet supplies, check out our pet supplies website.