Royal Canin is generally more expensive than Hill’s Science Diet. While both are high-quality, vet-recommended brands, Royal Canin often has a higher price point due to specialized, breed-specific formulas and extensive research. Hill's is frequently cited as the more affordable, readily available option.

Is Hills or Royal Canin more expensive?

Hill's Science Diet is often more affordable than Royal Canin, especially in their standard range. However, their Prescription Diet line is typically on par with Royal Canin's veterinary offerings, reflecting the advanced research and development behind these products.

Is Royal Canin the most expensive cat food?

In general, however, Royal Canin foods are a bit pricier than others with similar ingredient lists. For example, Royal Canin's popular Urinary SO dry cat food costs about $0.70 per ounce, adding up to a daily feeding cost of around $0.90 per day for an average cat.

Is Royal Canin better than Hills dog food?

Nutritional Value: Hill's Science Diet recipes contain real meat as the first ingredient and no chicken by-products in their mainline foods, while Royal Canin offers higher protein and fibre content but may contain some by-products.

Which brand is better than Royal Canin?

While Royal Canin is vet-recommended for specific needs, brands often considered superior or strong alternatives include Hill's Science Diet, praised for its research and real meat ingredients; Purina Pro Plan, noted for probiotics and overall effectiveness; and premium options like Orijen, Acana, and Fromm, which focus on whole ingredients, though suitability depends on your dog's individual health, allergies, and preferences. 

3 Top Dog Food Brands: Royal Canin Vs Blue Buffalo vs Hill’s Science Diet

Where does Royal Canin rank in dog food?

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Adult Dog Food receives the Advisor's mid-tier rating of 3 stars.

How to get Royal Canin cheaper?

To get Royal Canin cheaper, use online retailers with auto-ship discounts, join the Royal Canin Crown Partners loyalty program, look for coupons and promotions at places like Chewy and Groupon, compare prices at different stores (including budget retailers like Zooplus or Amazon), and consider price matching at local pet stores like Petbarn. Buying larger bags or looking for clearance near expiration dates can also help. 

What are the disadvantages of Royal Canin?

Cons of Royal Canin Dog Food is Royal Canin Dog Food the Best Choice. Royal Canin is often more expensive than other brands, which may be a drawback for budget-conscious pet owners. The inclusion of ingredients like corn and wheat in some formulas has raised concerns for some pet owners who prefer grain-free diets.

Is Royal Canin owned by Hills?

Royal Canin is owned by Mars, a leading US corporation, while Hills is under the umbrella of Colgate Palmolive, also a giant US corporation. Despite different parent companies, both brands operate within the same market space.

What is the cheapest and healthiest cat food?

The Healthiest Cat Food to Dish Out on a Budget

• Rachael Ray Nutrish Kibble Recipe (Chicken) ...
• American Journey Dry Cat Food (Salmon) ...
• Whole Earth Farms Dry Cat Food (Salmon & Whitefish) ...
• Taste of the Wild Rocky Mountain Dry Cat Food. ...
• Purina Beyond Dry Cat Food (Salmon) ...
• Iams ProActive Health Indoor Dry Cat Food.

Does Royal Canin use fillers in their food?

Hills Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina are considered "veterinary diets" and are often marketed as scientifically formulated foods. However, when we take a closer look at the ingredients in these foods, we see a heavy reliance on: Corn, wheat, and soy (which are common allergens and fillers)

Why has Royal Canin gone up in price?

Royal Canin has announced a price increase on their veterinary diets starting June 1, 2025. This decision comes directly from the manufacturer due to rising production costs and is unfortunately out of our control.

What is the equivalent to Royal Canin?

At Growling Tums, we're not just making dog foods adored by the UK's dogs, we're making a viable alternative to Royal Canin gastrointestinal dog food, and other brands like Hills and Purina. View our full range of gentle digestion foods.

Are expensive dog food brands worth it?

Just as you wouldn't judge a book by its cover, don't be too quick to judge a pet food by its price. Premium dog food is held to the same minimum standards for nutrition as cheap dog food. But if it doesn't meet AAFCO standards, it's best to keep shopping. It's also worth doing a little digging into the brand.

What is a cheaper alternative to Hill's Science Diet?

Cheaper alternatives to Hill's Science Diet include popular brands like Purina ONE, Iams, and Nutrisource, often recommended by vets for good quality at a lower price point, with options like Nature's Recipe, Diamond Naturals, and First Mate also praised for value and quality ingredients. For specific needs, Purina Pro Plan offers comparable prescription-level formulas, while Blue Buffalo provides good options for small breeds. Always transition foods slowly and consult your vet before switching. 

Is it okay to mix dry and wet dog food?

Due to the range of benefits that wet and dry diets boast, a mixed feeding approach can help your dog get the most out of mealtime. Combining both wet and dry to their diet can give them some variety, where they are exposed to different textures that they will generally be more tempted to try.

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