Should I use the ID or the full string for the google_product_category attribute?

Both are accepted by Google. Using the numeric ID 5162 is often preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed.

Can I use product_type to categorize my food containers instead?

Yes, but product_type is a free-form field for your internal organization and does not replace the mandatory google_product_category required by Google.

What happens if I leave the category blank?

Google will attempt to assign a category automatically. However, this process is not always accurate and may result in your products being classified too broadly, which can impact visibility.

Google product category

Pet Food Containers

Category ID5162

Full path for the feedAnimals & Pet Supplies > Pet Supplies > Pet Food Containers

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Reddy Divided Dog Treat Jar
PET FOOD CONTAINER
IRIS USA Dog Food Storage Container
Airtight Pet Food Container
Vittles Vault Stackable
Amici Pet Marley Metal Canister
Van Ness Pet Food Container
Ankou Airtight Dog Food Container
Mrbin Pet Food Bin
Ssawcasa Dog Food Storage Container
Amici Pet Pawsh Metal Canister
Perfnique Cat Food Storage Container
Airtight Dry Pet Food Storage Dispenser
Vibrant Life Pet Food Storage Container
HANAMYA Rice Storage Container

Pet Food Containers Category Overview

The Pet Food Containers category, identified by the unique Google ID 5162, is the official classification within the Animals & Pet Supplies taxonomy for storage solutions designed for pet nourishment. This category sits at the third level of the tree, falling directly under the parent category Pet Supplies.

What Belongs in This Category

This category is intended for vessels used to house dry pet food or treats. Examples from the US market include airtight plastic storage containers, stackable food vaults, metal canisters for cat or dog food, and food storage dispensers. If your product is explicitly designed to keep bulk pet food fresh, dry, or organized, it belongs here.

What Does Not Belong

Do not place products here if they serve other functions within the pet supplies ecosystem. Items such as Pet Bowls, Feeders & Waterers, Pet Food Scoops, or Pet Bowl Stands belong in their respective categories. Products like Pet Carriers & Crates or Pet Training Aids are also separate. Ensure items designed for waste management, such as Pet Waste Bags or Pet Waste Disposal Systems & Tools, are not classified as food storage containers.

How to Use This in Your Feed

You can populate the google_product_category attribute using either the numeric ID 5162 or the full string: Animals & Pet Supplies > Pet Supplies > Pet Food Containers. Remember that this attribute is optional but highly recommended to ensure Google assigns the correct policies to your products, as automatic categorization may be less precise.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the ID or the full string for the google_product_category attribute?: Both are accepted by Google. Using the numeric ID 5162 is often preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed.
Can I use product_type to categorize my food containers instead?: Yes, but product_type is a free-form field for your internal organization and does not replace the mandatory google_product_category required by Google.
What happens if I leave the category blank?: Google will attempt to assign a category automatically. However, this process is not always accurate and may result in your products being classified too broadly, which can impact visibility.

This category in other languages

ru: Животные и товары для питомцев > Товары для домашних животных > Контейнеры для корма для домашних животных
uk: Тварини та товари для тварин > Товари для домашніх тварин > Контейнери для корму для домашніх тварин