Rising Costs of Pet Ownership: 52% of Owners Fear Tariffs Will Strain Budgets

Concerns Rise Among Pet Owners Over Potential Impact of Tariffs on Affordability

SEATTLE — Inflation presses on costs and pet owners feel the strain. Many fear that tariffs will push prices up. Rover reports that 52% of pet owners worry about rising expenses. They expect tariffs to make essential pet products even less affordable.

Rover’s True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report 2025 surveyed 1,000 pet parents. It shows 28% already fret over paying for necessary supplies. Rebecca Greenstein, DVM—a Rover panelist and owner of Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital—adds that people see two clear facts every day. They worry about high, rising costs and stay firm in caring for their furry family.

Rising Costs and Budgeting Challenges

Rover breaks down pet care costs in clear numbers. A healthy dog may cost about $34,550 for ten years. A cat that lives sixteen years may cost around $32,170. Longer pet lives push expenses higher.

Inflation and tariffs may hit pet products hard. An 85% jump is possible for treats and chews. Veterinary fees could go up by 11%. Pet cleaning supplies might see a cost surge of 183%. Nearly half, 48%, of pet owners worry as their pets grow older.

Sixty-nine percent of pet owners spend most of their budget on food and treats. When prices rise, 25% turn to more affordable pet food or cheaper care options. Yet 68% still choose products that match their own standard of quality, while 20% look for even higher-quality options.

Spending Priorities Amidst Financial Pressure

Even with tight budgets, pet owners stay loyal. Thirty-four percent say they would stick with pet spending over other areas. In tough times, 33% cut spending on groceries or entertainment to help fund pet care.

Impact on Canadian Pet Owners

Rover’s survey of Canadian pet owners shows that costs there are even steeper. Canadian cat owners may spend more than $73,585 over a pet’s life. Dog owners might spend up to $53,935. Yearly, Canadian expenses run from $930 to $2,400 for cats and $965 to $4,020 for dogs. Food and treats again take the largest share of the budget.

With tariffs in view, 55% of Canadian pet owners prefer locally made brands, even if they cost more. In fact, 57% of dog owners favor Canadian products, compared to 52% of cat owners.

Looking Ahead

Inflation and tariff worries mean pet prices may keep rising. This forces pet owners to make tough budgeting choices and sparks a debate on pet care affordability.

For more insights, readers can check out Rover’s True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report 2025. Stay tuned to trusted news sources for the latest updates on pet care trends and industry news.

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