There are many costs associated with pets, including surprise ones that could pop up at any time. In 2025, the average annual cost of owning a dog ranged from approximately $1,418 to $4,485, and for cats, from about $1,105 to $3,205. And that doesn’t include the initial costs of bringing home a new dog or cat.
It’s important to prepare for the costs, both the expected and unexpected, so that you can give Fido or Maggie the care they need to live their best life.
Here are some typical costs associated with owning a pet:
For pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, bunnies, birds, and aquarium fish, lots of families assume they will be cheaper due to shorter life expectancies and fewer vet visits.
But keep in mind, routine vet visits may still be needed, and there will be other costs for things like large pens and routine cleaning (of the pet’s aquarium, cage, pen, etc.).
And just because a pet is smaller doesn’t mean it won’t be sticking around for long. Some birds can live many, many years, and guinea pigs and bunnies live for an average five years—that’s nothing to sneeze at!
Having a budget is the most important step for determining how to afford a pet. Let us help you create one! Book a meeting today.
Your dream pet… Freddy the French bulldog, Salty the Siamese cat, or Spike the hedgehog, may be within reach. Just be prepared for the costs and budget accordingly.
We would be happy to discuss your unique situation with you.
Our goal is to make complex topics like this one, simple.
