If you’re looking for a more convenient way to get your cat’s prescriptions or somewhere to buy over-the-counter meds, why not try an online pet pharmacy?
The vet office doesn’t always have prescriptions in stock, and their selection of non-prescription medication tends to be limited. Online pet pharmacies allow pet parents to browse different options and get exactly what they need sent straight to their doorstep.
With so many around all claiming to be the best, it’s tough to know which ones actually are, so we’ve made a list of our 8 best online pet pharmacy recommendations to help you out. Let’s take a look at our top picks starting with 1800PetMeds and Chewy Pharmacy.
Top Picks
- Best For Prescriptions – 1800PetMeds
- Best Overall Pharmacy – Chewy Pharmacy
- Best Budget Pick – EntirelyPets Pharmacy
Also in this article
- Best Cat & Dog Pharmacy
- Best Multipet Pharmacy
- Best Multi-Service
- Best For Basics
- Best For All Needs
- Cost Comparison Between Online Pet Pharmacies
- FAQs
Best For Prescriptions: 1800PetMeds
1800PetMeds is our top pick for prescriptions as they specialize in pet medication.
Who they are: 1-800-PetMeds was founded by Marc Puleo in 1996 and the company is based in Delray Beach, Florida.
What makes them special: 1-800-PetMeds has a huge inventory of pet medication, including almost all prescription meds and over-the-counter medications catering to cats, dogs, and horses.
What we like: The website allows users to find exactly what they need with helpful search filters based on species, health condition, life stage, brand, flavor, and price. They also accept mail-in prescriptions and discount bulk orders for over-the-counter medications.
They offer daily deals and have numerous discount and rewards programs, including 2% back on all purchases, and free shipping on orders over $49. There is even a 100% satisfaction guarantee with the option for refunds or merchandise credit on all products.
What to consider: While they have almost every medication for cats, they don’t cater to smaller pets or non-mammals, so consider that if you also have other pets.
Use now: Visit their website and save 20% off at PetMeds with code: NEW20!
Best Overall Pharmacy: Chewy Pharmacy
Chewy Pharmacy is our favorite overall pharmacy because of its huge range of health and wellness products for all pets, including a safe & reliable service for prescription medication.
Who they are: Chewy was founded by Ryan Cohen and Michael Day in 2011 and they’re based in Dania Beach, Florida.
What makes them special: The website is pretty widely regarded as the best one of its kind for its extensive range of products, from medication and daily essentials to toys and cool stuff, including supplies for pets with disabilities.
What we like: All of their items have ratings and reviews written by customers published underneath them, so you can see what other people are saying about something before you buy it. The website also has a bunch of helpful search filters to help you navigate their inventory and find what you need.
They offer free shipping on all orders over $49 and have sales and deals periodically, plus a convenient & discounted auto-ship option for things you need to stock up on regularly, with a 15% discount on your first auto-ship order. Chewy also has an excellent reputation for customer service, with a helpdesk that is open 24/7.
What to consider: Shipping times can range between 1-3 days or 3-5 days depending on what you’re buying, which isn’t ideal for everyone.
Use now: To check out this online pet pharmacy, click here!
Best Budget Pick: EntirelyPets Pharmacy
EntirelyPets Pharmacy is our top budget pick for its low-price guarantee. They provide prescription and over-the-counter medications for cats and dogs, as well as cattle and pigs, plus treats and toys.
Who there are: EntirelyPets was founded in 1999 by Cat and Brad Howard and is based in Union City, California.
What makes them special: The pharmacy has a low-price guarantee which ensures that their prices are lower than their competitors, which is why they’re our top budget pick.
What we like: EntirelyPets’ website is very easy to use and offers a large selection of products, with easy prescription refills, educational resources for owners, and helpful customer reviews & ratings underneath each product. They also have periodic promotions, discounts, and loyalty programs to help you save money, plus handy auto-ship options for things you need to stock up on regularly.
What to consider: They don’t cater to small pets like rabbits or exotic pets like birds and lizards.
Use now: To check out this online pet pharmacy, click here!
Best Cat & Dog Pharmacy: PetCareRX
PetCareRX is an online pet pharmacy that truly specializes in cats and dogs. Not only do they sell medication exclusively for cats and dogs, but they also supply all of the essentials owners need and have a ton of helpful advice.
Who they are: The brand was founded by Blake Brossman in 1998 and is based in Lynbrook, New York.
What makes them special: PetCareRX stands out with their membership program called PetPlus, which provides access to medicines at discounted prices for a yearly fee of $139. This is ideal for owners of multiple cats & dogs, especially those with long-term conditions or special needs.
What we like: As mentioned above, the pharmacy doesn’t just sell medication. They stock everything a cat owner needs, such as food, treats, toys, and accessories, plus grooming supplies, beds, training & behavioral aids, and supplies for travel and outdoor activities.
They even have a kitten page for all your new kitten’s needs and a large section dedicated to advice and resources on health and wellness for cats & dogs. Free shipping is available for orders over $48, and all medications come with a page of information and a quick process for refilling repeat prescriptions.
What to consider: It’s not suitable for you if you want something that caters to more than just cats and dogs.
Use now: To check out this online pet pharmacy, click here!
Best Multi-Pet Pharmacy: Petco Pet Pharmacy
Petco Pet Pharmacy is our top pick for owners of multiple pets because it provides just about everything for every type of pet – including prescription & over-the-counter medication. So, if you own multiple animals, consider using Petco Pet Pharmacy.
Who they are: Petco was founded by Walter Evans in 1965. They’re based in San Diego, California, and are one of the most popular pet brands in the US, opening their online pet pharmacy in 2016.
What makes them special: Petco isn’t just a pharmacy, they provide everyday essential supplies and fun toys & enrichment products for cats, dogs, and horses, as well as birds, fish, reptiles, and rodents, even farm animals!
What we like: Customers can earn points with every purchase for future savings, and there’s a convenient one-click system for repeat prescription refills. Orders over $35 qualify for free shipping, and additional savings are offered through repeat delivery sign-ups.
What to consider: Some customers have complained about the brand’s customer service.
Use now: To check out this online pet pharmacy, click here!
Best Multi-Service: PetSmart Pharmacy
PetSmart Pharmacy is more than just a pharmacy. The brand offers a range of services for cats, so if you’re looking for one reliable brand to meet all of your needs for total peace of mind, this is the one for you.
Who they are: PetSmart was founded by Jim and Janice Dougherty in 1986 and is based in Phoenix, Arizona. They’re one of the most popular pet brands in the US and opened their online pharmacy in 2021.
What makes them special: In addition to their online pharmacy which sells medication for cats, dogs, and farm animals, PetSmart also offers veterinary care, grooming services, and boarding services for cats. They even have an adoption service for cats and dogs and a helpful online learning center for owners.
What we like: PetSmart also sells other essentials for several pets and animals. They give buyers points with each purchase that lead to future savings, and auto-ship options for products you need to restock regularly. They also provide tracking for orders, accept mail-in prescriptions, and have deals and promotions on a regular basis.
What to consider: Although PetSmart sells products for all pets, its pharmacy only provides medications for dogs, cats, and livestock.
Use now: To check out this online pet pharmacy, click here!
Best For Basics: VetRXDirect
VetRXDirect is a very reputable online pet pharmacy that has been in business for almost 20 years. If you’re someone who likes to get the majority of your cat’s supplies in person but want quick and easy deliveries when it comes to their medical needs, this is the one for you.
Who they are: VetRxDirect is based in Coralville, Iowa, and was founded by Dr. Mark Pavsner in 2006.
What makes them special: VetRXDirect is a long-standing company that supplies all of the basics and essentials. They focus on delivering high-quality pet medications and premium veterinary supplements at affordable prices, straight to your home.
What we like: They offer free shipping for orders over $49 and have a bunch of ways to contact them for customer support; by phone, text, email, or through the on-site chat portal. They also accept mail-in prescriptions and have a newsletter you can sign up for with additional savings.
What to consider: If you’re looking for something more comprehensive where you can get all your cat’s non-medical supplies, this isn’t it.
Use now: To check out this online pet pharmacy, click here!
Best For All Needs: WalmartPetRx
WalmartPetRx or the Walmart pet pharmacy is a part of the giant retailer Walmart. If you want to order your cat’s medication at the same time as all the rest of their supplies – and yours – try them out!
Who they are: Walmart is one of America’s largest supermarkets. They were founded by Sam Walton in 1962 and opened their online pet pharmacy in 2019.
What makes them special: Walmart carries supplies for every area of your life at a reasonable price and the pet section is no exception. They stock thousands of items and medications for cats, as well as dogs, fish, birds, horses, and livestock.
What we like: The brand is known for its great deals and offers, and its online pet pharmacy gives buyers free shipping when they spend over $35, with a 5% discount on auto-ship orders. Prescriptions also come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and quick delivery.
What to consider: Their website has fewer search filters, so whilst there are tons of products, it’s a little bit harder to find exactly what you need.
PLEASE NOTE: The Walmart Online Pet Pharmacy seems to be in transition at this time and is currently only offering pet prescriptions on a walk-in pick-up basis. The current link includes the word “interim” in it, so it’s entirely possible that they’re working on something new. We’ll keep you updated.
Use now: To check out this online pet pharmacy, click here!
Cost Comparison of Common Pet Meds at Each Online Pet Pharmacy
Let’s finish this off with a side-by-side look at how much some of the most common prescription meds will run you at each online pet pharmacy. We used brand names in this example but there may be cheaper generic options on some sites. The prices below are are approximate “starts at” prices (may vary by pet size) and subject to change. This should give you an idea of what to expect. Here’s a quick breakdown of the medications we looked at in the comparison below:
Revolution Plus: Revolution Plus is a topical medication that provides 6-in-1 protection for cats. It kills 3 types of ticks and also prevents heartworm disease and treats and controls ear mites, roundworms, and hookworms.
Zylkene: Helps to improve your pet’s quality of life when experiencing stress due to environmental changes such as moving, travel, grooming, loud noises, or adoption.
Onsior: Onsior is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves pain and reduces inflammation associated with orthopedic and soft tissue surgery.
Neo Poly Dex Ophthalmic: Is used treat bacterial infections and swelling or inflammation as a result of an infection of the eye.
FAQs
How do online pet pharmacies work?
Online pet pharmacies work the same way as human ones. You can order the medication you want to be delivered straight to your home. To prove your cat’s prescription, you may have to upload a photo of it at the checkout and/or give your vet’s info so that it can be verified.
What can you order from online pet pharmacies?
You can order prescription medications like antibiotics and over-the-counter medications like flea and tick treatments, as well as holistic products like vitamins & supplements, and often everyday supplies like food and grooming products, too.
Are online pet pharmacies safe?
Licensed and accredited online pet pharmacies are perfectly safe, but you must stick to recognized pharmaceutical websites and never buy medication from third-party sellers. Things can also get damaged in the mail, so if your pet’s medication arrives damaged or opened, throw it away.
How do you know if an online pet pharmacy is real?
Real online vet pharmacies are licensed and accredited. If you’re unsure about which one to use, ask your vet for their recommendation or use our list as a guide.
Is it cheaper to buy cat prescriptions online?
It’s not always cheaper to order your cat’s prescriptions online, but it often is. Most online pet pharmacies also have loyalty programs and points programs, as well as sales, offers, discounts, and deals, especially for bulk & recurring orders.
Can I get pet meds without a vet’s prescription?
You cannot order prescription medication for your cat without a prescription from your vet.
Can I get a vet prescription online?
Some vets have options for virtual appointments, but there are also vets that offer exclusively virtual appointments and prescribe medications online. Whilst this may be convenient, we strongly recommend keeping your regular in-person vet for annual check-ups and more serious situations.
Does GoodRx work for animal prescriptions?
Yes! GoodRx now works for pet prescriptions, too.
Final Verdict on Online Pet Pharmacies
If you’re looking for an online pet pharmacy for your cat, we invite you to try out one of our recommendations! These online pet pharmacies offer a convenient and efficient solution for pet parents to access a wide range of medications, from prescription drugs to over-the-counter treatments. By choosing from one of our top recommendations including 1800PetMeds (great if you simply need pet meds) and Chewy Pharmacy (perfect if you need a variety of pet items), you can ensure that your beloved cat receives the best care with the ease and comfort of home delivery.
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