Rising Costs of Pet Ownership: What You Need to Know
By Betty Lin-Fisher | USA TODAY
Pet ownership costs rise. People with pets now face higher budgets. A Rover report shows the rising expenses for dogs and cats. Pet parents feel the pinch in their finances.
The Financial Burden of Caring for Pets
Sara Amato is 37. She works as a web designer in Union City, New Jersey. She adopted Finn, a three-year-old Australian cattle dog mix. Soon after, her costs reached about $722 each month. She spends that sum on food, insurance, training, and grooming. This sums to $8,664 each year. She also paid a one-time fee of $8,804 for extra training and medical care because Finn has severe allergies.
“I didn’t realize how much it would cost to care for him properly,” Amato said. “It’s worth it, but it is a financial commitment.”
Alarmingly High Lifetime Costs
The Rover report shows high lifetime costs. A typical dog costs about $34,550 over ten years. A cat may cost around $32,170 by its 16th birthday. Annual care costs vary by breed, size, and medical needs. In 2025, dog owners may spend between $1,390 and $5,295 each year. Cat costs may range from $760 to $3,495 each year.
Inflation and possible tariffs may push these costs even higher. Veterinary fees might climb by 11%. Grooming may cost 20% more. Pet care supplies might jump by 185% next year.
Pet Owners Voice Concerns
Many pet owners feel anxious about future costs. Surveys show that 52% of pet parents fear tariffs will raise pet product prices. Forty-eight percent worry about long-term costs. Sixty-nine percent say pet food and treats use a good portion of their monthly budget. Thirty-three percent cut other spending to care for their pets.
Yet, there is a bright side. Adoption fees are lower now than last year. This may help those who want to welcome a pet into their home.
Shifting Perspectives in Pet Ownership
Today, pet ownership is not the same as it once was. Pets are now part of the family. This change is clear in spending habits. The American Pet Products Association states that spending on pets reached $150.6 billion in 2024. In 2018, it was $91 billion. By 2030, spending might grow to $207 billion.
Nicole Ellis is a professional dog trainer and pet expert with Rover. She says that many pet parents see pets as family. “Pets are seen as family members now. This view leads to more spending on their health and lifestyle,” she said.
Planning for the Future
Rising costs make planning essential. Pet owners like Amato plan for extra expenses. Emergency veterinary care is one worry. A Rover survey shows that only 21% of pet parents include pets in their wills. Forty percent plan to do so soon. Also, 44% wish for more tax benefits for pet care. They seek credits and write-offs to ease costs.
Even with rising costs, Amato values her dog Finn. Her spending is high, yet she cares deeply for him.
“He is like my child,” she said. “I will spend whatever I can to keep him happy and healthy. I do not regret a single moment.”
As pet costs change, both new and current owners must plan their budgets well. This helps them care for their beloved pets.
For more information on pet spending and tips on how to manage expenses while keeping pets healthy, visit pet care organizations or talk to veterinary clinics.
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Contact Betty Lin-Fisher at blinfisher@USATODAY.com or follow her on social media for more consumer news.
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