Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether cat food qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Cat Food with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy cat food with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to assist with the purchase of food for human consumption. Items like cat food are considered non-food items and therefore do not qualify under the program's guidelines. The primary goal of SNAP is to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious food for themselves and their families.
How to Check If Cat Food Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot deli pizza: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the item to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like cat food that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not eligible for purchase.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, like hot deli meals, are not covered by SNAP benefits.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, and hygiene products fall outside the scope of SNAP eligibility.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you attempt to buy an ineligible item with your EBT card, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase altogether to proceed with the transaction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any exceptions to the rule that cat food is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. Cat food is universally classified as a non-food item under SNAP guidelines and cannot be purchased with EBT benefits, regardless of the store or state.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy cat food with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy cat food. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Can I purchase a basket of groceries that includes cat food with my EBT card?
Yes, you can purchase a basket of groceries that includes cat food, but the cost of the cat food must be paid with another form of payment. Only the SNAP-eligible items in your basket can be paid for with your EBT card.
What should I do if I'm unsure whether an item like cat food is SNAP-eligible?
If you're unsure about the eligibility of an item like cat food, check the label for "Nutrition Facts" or "Supplement Facts." You can also ask a store assistant or refer to the USDA's guidelines for SNAP-eligible items.
