Sainsbury’s has warned customers that a nationwide shortage of dog and cat food pouches could last throughout 2021.

The supermarket are still offering a range of canned and dry alternatives – meaning shoppers will may have to try different options this year as demand has soared during the pandemic.

In e-mails to cat and dog-owning customers, Sainsbury’s apologised but cautioned the issue could be long term.

“Due to a national shortage of dog and cat food pouches, we’re sorry if you’re not able to find your usual product at Sainsbury’s,” it said.

“We’re working hard to resolve this. We think the issue will be ongoing through the year, but we hope to get them back onto shelves as quickly as possible.”

There has been a significant growth in demand for pet food during the coronavirus pandemic as dog and cat ownership has soared in Britain.

“We are seeing an increased demand for pet food pouches and are working hard to maintain stock levels,” said a spokeswoman for Sainsbury’s.

This could lead to an increase in demand for canned pet food throughout 2021.

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