How Tariffs Will Affect the Price of Pet Care
By Laura Bradley
Published May 14, 2025
Tariffs rise. They add cost. Pet owners love their furry friends. Now, new tariffs may change pet care prices. Tariffs hit food, toys, accessories, and even vet care. Costs go up. Budgets feel the weight.
Understanding Tariffs and Their Economic Implications
A tariff is a tax. It falls on goods from abroad. This tax sticks close to the product’s value. Domestic firms pay more. Jessica Roy of the San Francisco Chronicle explains that extra costs drive firms to import less or charge more. Prices rise and tend to stay high. Airlines once charged for bags when fuel was dear, and fees stayed after fuel dropped. Pet care may soon match this trend.
The Impact on Pet Food Economics
Pet food is key. Experts see prices go up but not as high as for toys. Matthew MacLachlan, from the Dyson School, points out that the U.S. sends out much pet food. Yet, the country also buys special pet food from places like Thailand and China. Some items from China face over 100% tariffs now. These high tariffs risk pet food prices. U.S. makers struggle too with supply chains and local parts.
Hitendra Chaturvedi of Arizona State makes one thing clear. Rising raw material costs, such as for corn meal from Mexico, push up final prices. U.S. pet food makers buy vitamins and machinery from abroad. Such links matter. Consumers may see “shrinkflation” (smaller products for the same price) or “skimpflation” (cheaper ingredients).
The Price of Pet Toys and Other Accessories
Pet toys face steep increases. Almost 93% of these toys come from China. Heavy reliance on foreign goods puts pet owners at risk. Last year, the U.S. imported pet toys valued at $721 million. Roy warns that higher prices could discourage buyers. If toy prices soar, makers might stop producing goods that cost too high for buyers. This may lead to fewer choices or shortages in pet toys, beds, and grooming tools.
Rising Costs for Pet Care Services
Pet care services feel these shifts too. Vets may not raise fees overnight, but medical supplies come from abroad and cost more. This ripple touches groomers, kennels, and pet insurance. MacLachlan notes that while labor and utilities do not change with tariffs, foreign-sourced items do lift service prices.
The Uncertain Future of Tariffs
No one knows how long tariffs will stay. Roy admits that policies can change fast. Christopher Eaglin from Duke University foresees high prices for as long as tariffs exist. Even if tariffs go away, prices may remain high for a while. MacLachlan offers hope. New trade ties and more stable supply chains might ease some costs.
Strategies for Pet Owners to Cut Costs
Pet owners can take steps to save money. They can compare prices for pet food, watch for shrinkflation, and try alternatives. Buying fewer non-essential items, like extra toys, may help stay on budget. Such care ensures pets get love and care amid economic change.
As pet care costs shift, owners must learn and adapt. Staying informed helps ensure that our furry friends continue to thrive in changing times.
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