The phrase ‘Meow Mix shortage’ is sending ripples of concern through the feline-loving community across the United States. For years, Meow Mix has held a special place in the hearts of cat owners, offering a wide range of quality cat foods that cater to the unique preferences of our furry friends.
However, the recent Meow Mix shortage is making it increasingly challenging for cat owners to provide their pets with the nourishment they love. But what’s really causing this shortage? Could it be that Meow Mix is going out of business?
In this article, we’ll delve into the causes of this scarcity and also provide you with some tips that can help you navigate this challenging situation. So, just keep reading!
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Meow Mix Shortage Causing Concerns for Cat Owners
Meow Mix, a household name in the pet food industry, has been cherished by cat owners for decades. Their extensive selection of cat food options and commitment to quality have earned them the trust of countless pet owners.
However, the recent shortage of Meow Mix products on store shelves has left cat enthusiasts in a state of great concern. The scarcity is causing anxiety among pet owners, with some even wondering if Meow Mix is on the brink of discontinuation.
Luckily, we know that the brand is not shutting its doors soon. So, everyone deserves to know what’s causing the shortage. So, we have taken it upon ourselves to sensitize you on this.
What’s Causing Meow Mix Shortage?
Unfortunately, not just one factor is responsible for this. The present scarcity of this cat food is caused by many things. Let’s take a look at each of them.
#1: Shortage of Manpower
One of the primary culprits behind this scarcity is the persistent labor shortage within the cat food industry. Many workers, initially contributing to the production of cat food, left their positions during the pandemic.
Unfortunately, even after the pandemic’s subsidence, several of them have been hesitant to return. This labor scarcity is further exacerbated by the industry’s inherently unstable job market, contributing to a reduced production capacity.
#2: Shortage of Meat
Meat, a key ingredient in cat food, is in short supply. Rising manufacturing costs and difficulties in sourcing meat, minerals, and vitamins from outside the US have added to the problem.
Even cat food produced domestically is affected because most meat used is derived from human food off-cuts. A significant decline in overall meat production has intensified the shortage of wet cat food, leaving cat owners apprehensive about their cats’ daily meals.
#3: Shortage of Aluminum Cans
While this may be far from what you expected, the shortage of aluminum cans is part of what’s contributing to the Meow Mix shortage we are presently experiencing.
Wet cat food is frequently packaged in aluminum cans, and a shortage of these cans has added to the crisis. China, a prominent aluminum can producer, has witnessed a substantial decrease in production due to factory accidents and stricter environmental regulations. The United States, a primary importer of aluminum cans from China, is bearing the brunt of this shortage.
#4: Rise in Transportation Costs
Global events, such as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, have led to surging prices of petrol and diesel, driving up transportation costs. This has increased operational expenses for many companies, including Meow Mix, ultimately contributing to the product’s unavailability on store shelves.
#5: Increasing Cat Adoptions
The surge in cat adoptions has also compounded the demand for cat food, adding to the supply shortage. As more cats find loving homes, cat owners are driven to purchase food for their new pets, further straining the already limited supply.
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When Will the Meow Mix Shortage Come to an End?
Cat owners are understandably anxious about the duration of this pet food shortage. While it’s difficult to predict with absolute certainty, an interview with a pet store manager suggests that the shortage of wet and dry cat food may persist until the beginning of 2024.
Pet food brands have reassured the public that they are working diligently to increase production over the next four to six months. However, these challenges have led to price hikes of 10% to 15%, making it even more critical for cat owners to explore alternative solutions.
What Should Cat Owners Do to Survive this Shortage?
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Opt for Kibble
If wet cat food remains scarce, you can opt for dry cat food. However, remember that dry food doesn’t contain water, so encourage your cat to drink more water. Kibble can also cause weight gain in cats. So, when giving your cats kibbles, you should keep an eye on their weight to prevent unwanted weight gain.
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Mix Wet and Dry Food
Combining wet and dry cat food can provide a balanced diet, ensuring that your cat receives essential nutrition. This approach offers a variety of protein sources, enhancing the overall diet.
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Switch to other Alternatives
In case Meow Mix wet cat food is not available, you can go for alternative brands like Hill’s Science Diet or Purina One. Iams is also a good brand to consider for your cat. Just speak with your veterinarian before opting for any of them.
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Cook for Your Cat
If Meow Mix is unavailable in your area, you can explore preparing homemade meals for your cat. Include ingredients like beef, oatmeal, tuna, peas, salmon, and sweet potatoes, but consult your veterinarian for guidance to meet the dietary needs of your cat.
How Is the Meow Mix Shortage Affecting Cats Themselves?
The shortage has various implications for our beloved feline companions. Sudden dietary changes can be stressful for cats, leading to digestive issues or refusal to eat. Failing to meet specific dietary requirements could also impact their long-term health.
To mitigate these risks, cat owners should consider checking for alternative options, consult their veterinarians for advice, and gradually transition their cats to any new food to minimize potential digestive upset.
Was There a Recall of Meow Mix Foods?
Yes, there was a recall of some Meow Mix cat food products in 2022 due to potential salmonella contamination. The recall involved 30-pound bags of Original Choice Dry Cat Food, which were sold in specific Walmart stores in several states.
Salmonella contamination poses risks to both cats and humans, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and more. Even cats without symptoms can transmit the infection to other pets or humans in the household.
But does this have anything to do with the present shortage? We don’t think so. The recall was a limited one and was proactively taken care of because it escalated to a big issue.
Is Meow Mix Facing Financial Challenges?
While there is no explicit information about Meow Mix’s financial situation, the shortage and the associated challenges in production and distribution could be impacting the company’s financial stability. Supply chain disruptions, rising costs, and the recall of products can strain a brand’s financial health.
But is the brand presently facing financial troubles? No one can say for sure because there are no official statements to prove the company is not doing well in its numbers.
Is Meow Mix Bought Out?
As of the time of writing this post, Meow Mix is owned by The J.M. Smucker Company. Ownership of the brand has changed hands multiple times over the years, but it currently falls under The J.M. Smucker Company’s umbrella.
Meow Mix Shortage – Final Note
The Meow Mix shortage has left cat owners nationwide grappling with challenges in providing their feline friends with the nutrition they need. We have shown you already that the shortage was caused by a variety of factors, which have all made it difficult to find Meow Mix’s products on store shelves.
Is this a sign that Meow Mix is going out of business? Or is it an indication that the company is presently facing a financial storm? The answer is no. The shortage is not particular to Meow Mix but affects many brands in the industry.
So, while we wait for it to end, can owners can seek alternative options to make sure that their cats get the nutrients they need.