Canada and Mexico Tariff Uncertainty: Which Pet Products Could Get Even More Expensive?

If you've recently noticed that the price of cat litter is rising faster than your cat's meat, you're not alone.

I remember the sticker shock when tariffs first hit pet supplies a few years ago. Now, with the USMCA review underway and new trade tensions brewing, many pet owners are asking the same question: what's next? After analyzing industry reports and trade data, here's what pet parents need to know about which products are most vulnerable.

Which pet products are most vulnerable to new tariffs?

Based on current trade patterns and proposed tariff structures, certain categories of pet products face higher exposure than others. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), the industry is settling into a 10-20% tariff "new normal."

Pet products most vulnerable to new tariffs include finished pet food (especially premium formulas), products containing agricultural commodities, and plastic-based accessories.

Vulnerability by Category:

Pro Tip: While you can't control international trade, you can control your pet's preventative health. Managing conditions like Dog Dry Skin at home with simple remedies can help offset the rising costs of specialty medicated shampoos.

Let's break down the vulnerability by category:

The USDA has identified "strong opportunities for US pet food producers" in Mexico, but also notes ongoing tariff disputes affecting agricultural trade . The Agricultural Coalition for the USMCA reports that the agreement has significantly increased US agriculture exports to Canada and Mexico, but any renegotiation could shift these gains .

Will cat litter prices increase due to Canadian tariffs?

This depends on several factors. Cat litter prices could increase if tariffs target mineral products or if Canadian clay and mineral supplies face new trade barriers. The CBSA Customs Tariff for 2026 categorizes mineral products under Section V, which covers "earths and stone."

If tariffs target this section, bentonite-based clay litter will likely see a price hike.

Cat litter prices could increase if tariffs target mineral products or if Canadian clay and mineral supplies face new trade barriers . While Canada is a major source of clay and minerals used in cat litter, the actual impact depends on which specific products are targeted and whether exclusions apply.

The Canadian Customs Tariff for 2026 categorizes mineral products under Section V, which covers "Salt; sulphur; earths and stone; plastering materials, lime and cement" . If tariffs target this section, cat litter (which falls under mineral-based products) could be affected.

The US government has considered a universal minimum tariff of 10% on all goods imported to the United States, including food and agricultural products . If implemented, this would affect virtually all imported cat litter regardless of source.

How can pet owners prepare for rising supply costs?

Waiting for prices to drop isn't a strategy—here's what you can do now.

Pet owners can prepare for rising costs by: buying in bulk when prices are stable, exploring store brands that may be less tariff-exposed, subscribing to auto-delivery services (which often lock in prices), and considering alternative materials that may have different trade classifications .

The trade landscape shifted significantly on February 20, 2026, following a major U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

• The 15% Global Surcharge: Following the strike-down of previous emergency tariffs, a new 15% temporary global tariff has been implemented under Section 122 for most imports. While USMCA members (Canada and Mexico) currently enjoy exemptions, brands sourcing from Europe or Asia are already adjusting prices.

• The Aluminum Spike: Effective March 2026, tariffs on imported aluminum have reached 25-50%. This specifically impacts wet food prices, as the cost of manufacturing cans has doubled in some regions.

Rising costs can be stressful for pet owners, and pets often mirror our anxiety. If your cat has started obsessive licking due to household tension or changes, see our Cat Over-grooming & Stress Guide for support.

Here's your practical preparation guide:

What pet food manufacturers are doing:

The pet industry is adapting to what experts call a "new normal" for tariffs . Key strategies include:

• Geographic diversification of supply chains (sourcing from multiple countries)

• Dynamic formulation (adjusting ingredient mixes based on relative pricing)

• Forward contracting (locking in prices for 6-12 months)

• Near-shoring (moving production closer to end markets)

For consumers, this means the industry is building resilience—but those investments may temporarily show up as higher prices.

The bright spot:

Industry analysts predict that "from 2026 onwards, the global baseline is going to be driven by lowering of interest rates as well as easing of inflation" . This could moderate price increases even if tariffs remain.

Where can you find real-time tariff updates for 2026?

Staying informed is the best defense against surprise price hikes.

You can find real-time tariff updates through: the American Pet Products Association (APPA) trade resources, U.S. Customs and Border Protection announcements, industry newsletters, and direct consultation with customs brokers if you're a business owner .

Waiting for prices to drop isn't a strategy. Here is your practical preparation guide to navigating "Petflation":

1. Bulk Buying: Stock up on non-perishables like dry kibble and litter during sales to lock in current prices.

2. Subscription Services: Use auto-delivery for regular purchases. These often include price guarantees for 6 months.

3. Prioritize Preventative Care: Avoiding expensive emergency procedures is the best way to save money. For example, staying on top of your Kitten’s Teething Timeline can prevent surgical extractions later.

4. Store Brands: Compare private-label options; these are often sourced more domestically and are less exposed to "Tariff Stacking."

Here are the most reliable sources:

Key deadlines to watch:

How to read tariff news effectively:

1. Look for specific products, not just categories — broad announcements affect individual items differently

2. Track exclusion lists — some products may be exempt even if categories are targeted

3. Follow supply chain news — ingredient costs often signal finished product price changes

4. Check Canadian and Mexican sources — trade is a two-way street; both sides announce changes

Conclusion

Pet product prices face continued pressure from tariff uncertainty, particularly for imported food, treats, and plastic goods . Cat litter could be affected if mineral tariffs are implemented . Consumers can protect their budgets by buying strategically, exploring alternative products, and staying informed through reliable industry sources . While a 10-20% tariff "new normal" appears likely , falling inflation rates may moderate overall price increases . The best defense is staying informed and planning ahead—your pet's well-being is worth the extra attention.