Understanding the Impact of Tariffs on Pet Care Costs: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Wallet

How Tariffs Will Affect the Price of Pet Care

By Laura Bradley
May 14, 2025

Many pet owners love to treat their furry companions. New trade rules now force them to think again about their spending. Tariffs, which are taxes on imported goods, now raise the cost of pet food, treats, toys, and even veterinary care.

Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact

A tariff is a tax. It targets goods that come from abroad. The tax is a percentage of the item’s value. Domestic companies pay this cost when they import goods. Jessica Roy of the San Francisco Chronicle explains that companies face two choices. They can import less. Or, they can raise prices to cover tariffs. Once prices get higher, they rarely drop back.

Roy offers a familiar case. Not long ago, checking a bag on airplanes was free. Airlines now charge a fee because higher gas prices forced them to pay more. Even after gas prices fell, the fees stayed. In another example, car prices climbed during the COVID-19 pandemic when semiconductors were scarce. In 2022 and 2023, grocery prices rose because of inflation. We can expect pet care prices to follow a similar path.

Analyzing Price Increases in Pet Care Products

Pet Foods: A Mixed Bag

Pet food costs are set to rise, but not as sharply as toy prices. Matthew MacLachlan from Charles H. Dyson School explains that the U.S. exports much more pet food than it imports. Premium and specialized brands are strong at home. However, brands that rely on foreign ingredients – such as those from China – feel tariffs badly.

The cost of raw materials plays a role. Mexican corn meal and other supplies may cost more when trade rules change. Machinery, uniforms, and transport parts also come from abroad. These parts add to costs in a chain reaction. Consumers must compare prices more often. They should watch for "shrinkflation" when package sizes drop, and "skimpflation" when quality falls.

Pet Toys: A Cause for Concern

Pet toy prices face steep increases. Ninety-three percent of pet toys in the U.S. come from China. Last year, imports hit $721 million. Tariffs now hit these low-priced items hard. Many shoppers expect low prices and may resist paying more.

Manufacturers may cut back on stock. This forces a choice: fewer options in stores. As Roy puts it, “It’s not like we have a bunch of factories sitting empty.” U.S. factories may run at full capacity, limiting production.

Increased Costs Across Pet Services

Higher costs for supplies may nudge veterinary charges higher. Christopher Eaglin from Duke University notes that rising expenses for medical supplies can increase operating costs. Groomers, kennels, and insurers also use foreign-made items. These extra costs may lead to higher prices for pet care services.

Will Tariff Price Increases Persist?

The future of tariffs stays unclear. Roy notes that economic conditions can change quickly. New policies may shift with different leadership. Eaglin suggests that even if tariffs drop, higher prices might stick. Once prices rise, they tend to settle at the new level.

MacLachlan adds hope. He says that new trade ties or stronger domestic production can ease cost pressures. Adjustments in supply chains might soften the impact.

Strategies for Consumers to Mitigate Costs

Pet owners must get ready for cost hikes. They can compare prices and check for changes in product sizes or quality. As tariffs change the market, consumers need to stay flexible. Knowing what to expect helps pet owners protect their budgets.

Pet owners will have to tweak their spending plans. They must ensure that their companions still get the best care. Despite a shifting economy, careful choices can keep pet care affordable.

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