The Weirdest Pet Food Trends of the Year: Should You Try Them?

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Pet parents are going all in on their fur babies’ diets, and let’s be honest — things are getting weird. From insect-based kibble to CBD-infused catnip smoothies, the pet food industry has gone off the deep end. But are these trends actually good for your pets, or just another way to make humans feel better about what they’re scooping into that fancy ceramic bowl? Let’s dig in (pun absolutely intended) to the strangest pet food trends of the year and find out if they’re worth trying — or if your dog would rather just eat yesterday’s pizza crust.

1. Bug-Based Pet Food: The Future or Just Plain Gross?

Yes, you read that right — cricket kibble is a thing. With sustainability on everyone’s mind, insect-based pet food is gaining traction as an eco-friendly, protein-rich alternative to traditional meat-based meals. Brands like Jiminy’s and Yora are leading the charge, offering kibble and treats made from crickets, black soldier flies, and mealworms.

Would your dog eat it? Probably, considering dogs have zero shame and have likely eaten worse things off the sidewalk.

Would your cat eat it? Unlikely. Cats are tiny, furry food snobs, and if it’s not exactly what they want, they’ll starve themselves dramatically.

Verdict: If you’re eco-conscious and your pet isn’t picky, insect protein might be worth a shot. If your pet turns their nose up at expensive gourmet kibble, stick to the classics.

2. Raw Food Diet: Nature’s Way or a Salmonella Buffet?

The raw food diet for pets has been gaining popularity among pet owners who believe processed kibble is the root of all evil. The idea is simple: mimic what dogs and cats would eat in the wild — raw meat, bones, and organs. Brands like Stella & Chewy’s and Primal Pet Foods make pre-packaged raw meals, so you don’t have to channel your inner butcher.

Would your dog eat it? Without hesitation. Probably in one gulp.

Would your cat eat it? Finally, food worthy of their existence.

Verdict: While it sounds primal and cool, raw diets come with bacterial risks (hello, salmonella!). If you go raw, do your research, and don’t just toss your dog a raw chicken wing and hope for the best.

3. Human-Grade Pet Food: Because Your Dog Deserves a Better Dinner Than You

If you’re feeding your dog better than you eat, congratulations — you’ve officially reached peak pet parent status. Human-grade pet food companies like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Nom Nom deliver fresh, lightly cooked meals made with premium ingredients that wouldn’t be out of place in a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Would your dog eat it? Absolutely. They will also expect you to hand-feed it to them from now on.

Would your cat eat it? If they feel like it. Which they probably won’t.

Verdict: If you’ve got the budget and enjoy knowing your dog eats organic, free-range turkey with quinoa, go for it. If you’re still eating ramen three nights a week, maybe stick with regular kibble.

4. CBD-Infused Pet Treats: Chill Mode or Just a Trend?

We get it — life is stressful, and maybe your anxious dog or high-strung cat needs to relax, too. CBD-infused pet treats claim to help with anxiety, arthritis, and overall well-being. Brands like Honest Paws and MediPets offer CBD dog treats, tinctures, and even peanut butter.

Would your dog eat it? Yes, and they may stare at you in confusion afterward, waiting for their usual level of chaos to kick in.

Would your cat eat it? Cats are already naturally high-strung yet indifferent, so results may vary.

Verdict: While some pet owners swear by it, make sure you’re buying from reputable CBD pet brands and consult your vet before dosing your pet with hemp-derived zen.

5. Vegan Pet Food: A Good Idea or Nutritional Nightmare?

Vegan diets work for humans, but what about our carnivorous companions? Vegan pet food has been a hot debate, with brands like Wild Earth and V-Dog claiming their plant-based formulas provide all the nutrients pets need — without the meat.

Would your dog eat it? Maybe, but only if they never find out what a cheeseburger tastes like.

Would your cat eat it? Absolutely not. Cats require taurine, an amino acid only found in animal proteins. Deprive them of it, and they might actually plot your demise.

Verdict: While some dogs can thrive on a plant-based diet, cats are obligate carnivores — which means they need meat. If your heart says vegan, but your cat says steak, listen to your cat.

6. Fancy Bone Broth: Nourishing or Just Overpriced Soup?

Bone broth for pets is the new “it” trend, promising joint support, better digestion, and a glossy coat. Brands like Brutus Broth and The Honest Kitchen sell gourmet broths infused with turmeric, pumpkin, and even collagen.

Would your dog eat it? Yes, but they’d also be just as happy licking up the gravy from your plate.

Would your cat eat it? If served in a crystal goblet and at exactly the right temperature.

Verdict: Bone broth is nutritious and hydrating, but let’s be real — it’s glorified meat juice. Your pet will love it, but don’t expect them to be impressed.

7. Freeze-Dried Raw: The Trendy Middle Ground

Want the benefits of raw without the salmonella scare? Freeze-dried raw pet food is gaining traction as a compromise. Brands like Instinct Raw Boost and Vital Essentials offer freeze-dried raw kibble and toppers for extra crunch and nutrition.

Would your dog eat it? Absolutely. It’s still meat, just space-age style.

Would your cat eat it? If rehydrated into a perfect, meaty mousse, yes.

Verdict: A solid option for pet owners who want to dabble in raw feeding without the bacteria gamble.

Which Trend Should You Try?

If you’re an adventurous pet parent, there’s no shortage of weird pet food trends to test. Whether your fur baby is crunching on crickets, sipping CBD pet treats, or dining on Michelin-star-worthy meals, just make sure whatever you feed them is nutritionally balanced and vet-approved.

Your pet may not care if their food is vegan, raw, or freeze-dried, but they will care if it tastes good. Because at the end of the day, your dog would still rather eat your socks, and your cat will still judge you no matter what.

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