Planning for a Pricey Pet
September 24, 2025
Pets can be great companions, so it’s probably not surprising that 94 million U.S. households own at least one. But pets can also be expensive to care for, and costs are rising. According to one survey, average pet costs increased 9% for a dog and 11% for a cat in 2024 and are projected to rise even more — as much as 7% for a dog and 10% for a cat in 2025. Costs vary based on factors such size, breed, age, and health, but knowing how much you might spend to care for your pet can help you plan for the impact on your budget.
Average estimated monthly pet care costs for medium-sized breeds
Food/supplements: Dog $48 to $174; Cat $30 to $115
Routine vet care: Dog $18 to $65; Cat $29 to $62
Gear/toys: Dog $9 to 30; Cat $5 to $11
Grooming: Dog $6 to $22; Cat $0 to $3
Pet sitting/training: Dog $18 to $65; Cat $3 to $5
Miscellaneous*: Dog $22 to $78; Cat $3 to $5
*Includes emergency vet services and unplanned costs
Sources: American Pet Products Association, 2025; Rover.com, 2025
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