Rising Costs and Tariff Concerns: How Pet Ownership is Becoming a Financial Strain for US Families

Rising Costs of Pet Ownership: Pet Owners Voice Their Concerns

SEATTLE —
Inflation persists and tariffs loom. Pet owners in the United States face rising costs. Rover’s True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report 2025 shows 52% of pet parents worry. Tariffs add to high expenses. Nearly 28% fear they cannot buy essential pet products.

The Financial Burden of Pet Care

Rebecca Greenstein, DVM, works with pet parents every day. She sees clear concerns about pet care costs. Pet owners worry about high expenses and rising prices. Greenstein, who runs Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital, advises budgeting. She suggests saving money and planning vet visits. Regular checkups and vaccinations help lower costs.
Rover surveyed 1,000 pet owners across the U.S. The survey covered many expenses from buying a pet to yearly care. The report estimates that a 10‑year‑old dog costs about $34,550. It also estimates that a 16‑year‑old cat costs about $32,170. Advances in veterinary care let pets live longer. This change brings more cost over time.

Impact of Inflation and Tariffs

Inflation and tariffs add more strain. The report projects cost rises in many areas. Pet owners face an 85% jump in treats and chews. Veterinary fees are expected to rise by 11%. Cleaning supplies for pets may cost 183% more. Grooming expenses might increase by 20%. Forty-eight percent of pet owners worry about lifelong pet costs. Thirty-one percent think pet product prices rise faster than household goods.
Sixty-nine percent of pet owners say food and treats take the largest part of their budget. About 25% now choose more affordable pet food or services. Still, 68% want quality products that match their own standards. Twenty percent search for products of even higher quality.

Budgeting Decisions Highlighting Pet Prioritization

Pet spending remains very important. Thirty-four percent of pet owners keep pet spending even when budgets tighten. About 33% cut costs elsewhere—like groceries and entertainment—to pay for pet care.

Insights from Canada

Rover also surveyed pet owners in Canada. Canadian pet owners face even higher lifetime costs. They may spend up to $73,585 for cat ownership and $53,935 for dogs. Yearly costs range from $930 to $2,400 for cats and $965 to $4,020 for dogs. Most of these costs come from food and treats. Rover expects an 18% jump in dog costs and a 41% rise for cats this year.
In response, 55% of Canadian pet owners now prefer domestically produced pet products. For dog owners, 57% choose Canadian-made items. Among cat owners, 52% favor these products.

Conclusion

Inflation and uncertain tariffs continue to challenge pet owners. They face rising expenses as they care for their pets. Rover’s findings urge pet parents to be aware of and manage costs well. Pet owners are adjusting their budgets to meet their animals’ needs.
For more insights into pet ownership expenses, readers are encouraged to explore Rover's True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report 2025. Stay informed on the latest in the pet food processing industry by visiting our news page.

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