Form: S-8

Initial registration statement for securities to be offered to employees pursuant to employee benefit plans

May 2, 1997

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS CONSENT

Published on May 2, 1997



EXHIBIT 23.1


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT

We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement of
Central Garden & Pet Company on Form S-8 of our reports dated November 15, 1996,
appearing in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Central Garden & Pet Company for
the year ended September 30, 1996.



DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
April 28, 1997

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