How Tariffs Will Affect the Price of Pet Care
by Laura Bradley
Published on May 14, 2025
Pet owners spoil their furry friends. A change in the economy may force many to rethink their spending. Tariffs on imports push up prices on pet food, treats, toys, and vet care. These new costs will affect pet budgets as pet care changes.
What Are Tariffs and How Do They Impact Prices?
A tariff is a tax on goods that come from other countries. It adds a percentage to the good’s value. Jessica Roy, a personal finance writer, explains that rising tariffs force companies to import less or add extra costs for buyers. Consumers soon face higher pet care prices as a result.
Roy compares tariffs to airline baggage fees. Airlines added fees when fuel costs rose. Even when fuel dropped, fees remained. This pattern became common after COVID-19. In the same way, pet care costs may stay high no matter what happens next.
Anticipated Price Increases in Pet Products
Pet Food: A Mixed Bag
Matthew MacLachlan, an agricultural economics professor, says pet food may not jump as high in cost as other items. The U.S. imports pet food from countries like Thailand and also exports premium lines. Yet, tariffs on products from China affect pet food that uses foreign ingredients or supplies.
Experts warn of “shrinkflation.” Packages may hold less food for the same price. They also warn of “skimpflation,” when brands swap expensive ingredients for cheaper ones. Both trends reduce quality.
Pet Toys and Accessories: The Real Cost
Pet toys and accessories face steep price hikes. Almost all pet toys come from China. Last year, 93 percent of $721 million in pet toy imports came from China. Manufacturers find it hard to raise prices without upsetting buyers.
Roy says that in uncertain times, people cut back on non-essential items like toys. Low stock of pet toys and grooming supplies may further drive up costs.
Services: Elevated Costs for Pet Care
Tariffs affect veterinary services indirectly. Vets depend on imported medical supplies and equipment. These extra costs reach pet owners even if service fees do not change. Grooming, boarding, and pet insurance may also cost more as providers pass on these expenses.
The Duration of Price Increases
It is hard to know how long tariffs will push prices up. Tariff rules change with politics. Roy notes that even if tariffs fall, prices may remain high. Christopher Eaglin suggests that new pricing habits can last well after tariffs are repealed. MacLachlan adds that new supply chains and trade deals could ease some of the cost pressures.
Strategies to Mitigate Increased Costs
Pet owners should act before prices rise even more. Experts recommend careful budgeting and comparison shopping. Looking at several stores may reveal better deals. Buyers should also watch for changes in product sizes and quality.
Conclusion
Tariffs on imports challenge pet owners by pushing up the cost of pet care essentials. By staying informed on market trends and shifting spending habits, pet owners can continue to care for their pets without overspending.
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